How to Train your Dog to 'Wait'

Teaching Your Dog to Wait Makes Your Life Easier!

A dog who you can count on to wait can make life so much easier.

Imagine no more door dashing, no rushing for the road, and your dog waiting calmly while you clip and unclip the lead. This skill teaches your dog that being patient and having impulse control gets them good things.

What's the Difference? Wait vs. Stay

Wait: Means 'Wait here until I call or release you.'

It's about calmness and safety. Your dog waits until their bowl is down, until you check the road for cars, or until you open the door.

Stay: Means 'Stay here until I come back.'

It's for your convenience, like when you're getting the shopping from the car.

What Wait Looks Like

When your dog waits, they stay in the same spot, standing, seated or lying down (my favourite) until you release or return to them. They don't get up and walk around when you walk away, when a distraction appears, or if you take longer than expected.

Step-by-Step WAIT Training

Step 1: The Foundation

• Start in a quiet place with no distractions.

• Ask your dog to "Sit." Wait in front of them for a couple of seconds before rewarding them.

• Gradually and randomly increase the time they wait for the reward, up to 10 seconds.

• By varying the time, your dog won't see a pattern or think, "This just keeps getting harder to earn a reward."

Step 2: Add Distance

• Once your dog is comfortable waiting for a reward.

• Take one small step back, immediately return to them, and reward.

• Gradually increase the distance to five steps, then three, and eventually across the room.

Step 3: Build Duration Gradually and the Cue 'Wait'

• When your dog can wait in place while you're across the room, and the Cue 'Wait'

• Say 'wait' then, start adding time before returning to reward them, again randomly.

• Begin with 5 seconds, then 3, then 10, building up slowly.

Step 4: Add Real-World Distractions

• Practice during daily routines.

• Use doorways before going outside or while preparing their food.

• Start with mild distractions, reducing your expectation of time, and gradually increase the challenge.

The Release

• Use a consistent release word like "Okay," "Free," or "Break" to end the wait. Your dog remains in position until they hear this word.

• Use loads of praise when you release them

• Regular practice will make it easy for them, no matter what is happening around them.

Training Tips

• Train in 5 to 10-minute sessions in different locations.

• Build it into your daily life, practice often.

• If they start to break the wait, go back a step (shorter time or distance).

  
  

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Moving too fast: Many people try to add time and distance together, which can overwhelm your dog. Be reliable in one before adding the other.

• Practicing only during training sessions: Reliability comes from using it in everyday situations.

  
  

Troubleshooting Common Problems

• "They get up the moment I step away." You're moving too fast. Go back to standing in front of them while they sit for longer, and be generous with your rewards.

• "They stay but seem anxious or stressed." Slow down and return to reward more frequently. Build confidence by making it easier.

• "They're great in training but won't wait when out and about." Practice in daily situations where you need it, starting with quiet locations, this sets your dog up to succeed.

Building a Stronger Bond Through Training

• Teaching your dog to wait is more than just a command; it’s about building a stronger bond.

• When your dog learns this skill, they gain confidence in their self-control.

• You’ll find that your relationship deepens as you both understand each other better.

  
  

Remember: Wait is about building your dog's confidence and impulse-control. Keep sessions short and positive, progress gradually, always setting your dog up for success.

By incorporating this training into your daily routine, you’ll not only enhance your dog’s skills but also enjoy a happier life together. So, are you ready to transform your dog's impulse control? Start today!