How to Get Your Dog to Stay Off a Leash

When your dog is off its leash, it is essential that it obeys your verbal and hand commands. Many places that allow dogs off leashes require that you can control you dog with verbal commands. Training your dog to stay on command, with or without a leash, is an essential step in dog obedience training. This training takes personal discipline and consistency, but the rewards are worth it.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Stand facing your dog.

    • 2

      Command your dog to "sit," "stand" or be in whatever position you want your dog to start from. Your dog should already know this command.

    • 3

      Reward your dog with a treat and praise if it stays for any length of time.

    • 4

      Lengthen the period of time gradually that you wait before giving the reward and praise.

    • 5

      Introduce the verbal "stay" command and hand signal. After you use the "sit" or "stand" command, say "stay" and hold out your hand like you are indicating stop. Wait a few moments. If your dog does not move in that period, reward it with a treat and praise. You are creating an association for your dog with the "stay" command and the reward.

    • 6

      Repeat the previous step, but this time step backward from your dog after you issue the "stay" command. Return to your dog and reward it for staying put. Repeat this process, gradually increasing the distance from your dog each time.

    • 7

      Move your training to a different indoor location. Practice these steps until your dog can stay on command for about a minute.

    • 8

      Move your training outdoors.

    • 9

      Use the "sit" and "stay" commands any time your dog is off its leash and you want it to stay.