Wait
The "Wait" cue is a practical skill that helps your dog learn impulse control in real-life situations. Whether it's waiting for food, waiting at doors, or waiting at street crossings, this cue keeps your dog safe!
What’s the Difference Between Stay and Wait?
While "Stay" means your dog should remain in a specific position until you return, "Wait" is more flexible. "Wait" tells your dog to pause momentarily until they get permission to move forward.
Wait for Food
This version of "Wait" helps your dog learn patience around meals and treats.
Steps:
Ask your dog to sit, then hold their food bowl or a treat high up where they are interested, but cannot jump to get it.
Say "Wait" then start to lower the bowl or treat slightly.
If your dog holds the sit position while you slightly lower the food, immediately mark the behavior with a click or by saying “yes!”, and deliver the treat to the dog’s mouth.
If your dog moves forward, lift the bowl or treat back up and repeat, but lower it less. Be sure your dog can succeed, even if you are barely lowering the treat or bowl.
Gradually lower the treat further and further until you can place it on the ground.
Once your dog can remain seated, and you can place the bowl or treat on the ground, add a release cue (e.g., "Okay", “Take it”, “Free”).
Wait with Distance
This version is useful for when you need your dog to pause while you move away.
Steps:
Ask your dog to sit or lie down.
Say "Wait" and take a small step back.
If your dog holds their position, mark the behavior with a click or “yes!” then release and reward them.
Gradually increase the distance and duration.
Tip: If your dog breaks the wait, calmly return them to the original spot and try again with a shorter distance.
Wait at Doors and Street Crossings
This version of "Wait" keeps your dog safe by preventing them from rushing through doors or into the street.
Steps for Doors:
Approach the door with your dog on a leash.
Ask your dog to sit.
Say "Wait" and begin to open the door slowly, just a little bit.
If your dog moves, close the door and reset them. If they hold the position mark the behavior and reward!
Repeat 1-4 until you can gradually open the door further and further.
Once your dog waits calmly, and you can open the door fully, mark the behavior and release them with a cue (e.g., "Free") while allowing them to pass through.
Tips:
Practice in low-distraction areas before working in busier environments.
Sometimes just turning the knob or touching the door can cause your dog to break the sit position, it is okay to start practice there!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the Release Cue: Even if "Wait" doesn’t always require a release cue, using one helps reinforce impulse control.
Inconsistent Commands: Be consistent with your wording and cues to avoid confusing your dog.
Progressing Too Quickly: Gradually increase the difficulty by adding distance, duration, and distractions.
Resources:
Wait- Whole Dog Journal
Teaching Wait- SassyT Canine Academy
Wait- Savvy Dog Training
Release Cues- Darcy the Dog Trainer