Wait means "wait there until I give a release signal."
Stay means "stay in that exact position until I come back."
Wait is an excellent safety behavior at doors and gates, because
it teaches you pup not to go through the opening until you tell her
to. While she waits, you can check to make sure there are no
hazards on the other side.
- Stand at the door with your pup on leash so you can stop
her if she tries to bolt through. While your pup either sitting
or standing, say "Wait" and reach for the doorknob. If she
starts to move, take you hand off the knob without opening
the door.
- Pause for a few seconds, then again tell her "Wait", and
reach for the knob. If she moves, start over again.
- If she waits, praise her, give her a small treat, then open
the door and tell her "OK", go out."
- Go with her, and let her sniff around. Then return to the
door, and repeat the same "Wait'" sequence on the way
back in.
- When your pup waits nicely you just reach for the knob,
start having her wait while you actually open the door.
Keep her on the leash, just in case. At first open the door a
crack, then close it, praise give her a treat.
- Then open it wide, giving her permission to go through.
Gradually increase how far you open the door before
closing it and rewarding your pup.
- Next, have her wait for the release cue while the door
remains open. Increase the duration she waits there a few
more seconds each time. Teach this same lesson at all
doors and gates, including car doors, until she learns to
wait for permission before going through any open door or
gate.
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