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This is an exercise of control, to be used with either the "Sit" or the "Down" command. You should start to teach this as soon as your dog can sit reliably. The object of the exercise is for the dog to NOT move out of the position you place it in. Even if your dog only moves six inches, you must place it exactly back into the original position, or the dog will think that it can get away with moving. They will move a little bit at first, then move their whole body because you let them get away with it. The "Stay" command means exactly that. Be firm, and act like you mean it! If you are indecisive with your commands, you dog will be the same in obeying your commands. Start with your dog in a heeling position. Hold the leash in your left hand and open your right hand wide. With a slashing motion towards and ending right in front of the dogs nose, firmly say "STAY!" Pull the leash up directly over his head and hold the leash straight up, keeping it taut. Wait a few seconds to make sure he is set, then take a step in front of him while continuing to hold the leash taut (without pulling him towards you). If he starts to move, say "NO!" firmly while holding him in place with the leash (pop the leash straight up). Keep the repetitions short at first (5 to 10 seconds), then you (not the dog) return to the heel position. Wait a few more seconds, then warmly praise your dog and give him treats. Remember not to look at your dog's eyes when you return to him. It will make him nervous and he will break the stay. When your dog is able to master this preliminary "Stay", you must make things a bit more challenging. While standing in front of the dog, reinforce the "Stay" command with the hand signal and walk halfway around the dog and stop. If he should break, correct him immediately with a "NO! STAY!" and pop the leash, then return to your starting position. If your timing is off and you can't catch him immediately when he breaks, simply heel the dog around and back into position. Praise the dog for staying when he does, then walk around the dog in the opposite direction. Continue this until the dog stays every time. Then walk in complete circles around the dog. You need to watch your dog like a hawk, and if you are able to, anticipate your dogs move and stop him before he breaks. With lots of practice, you will be able to loosen the leash and step further away from your dog without it's breaking "Stay". Now you can start what's called "proofing" your dog. Put the dog in a "Stay" and throw a ball in front of him. When he starts to break, stop him. Have kids ride their bikes in front of him, use anything to make him break. MAY THE GOOD LORD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU SAFE LIKE A GSD.
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