Quote: stephanie lemoine

How do you teach her to sit and stay mine will sit but not stay.

I was taught to make the dog think that being in a sit (or down) is a Really Good Thing.

Put the dog in a sit. For a few seconds, give the dog small bits of treat in quick succession while saying "Good sit". Release. Repeat. Gradually increase the amount of time you keep the dog in a sit while decreasing the frequency of the treat. When the dog stays put reliably for some time (half a minute, maybe???), take one step away from the dog then immediately return and treat. Again, gradually lengthen the distance you move away and the amount of time between treats. Don't do too much in one session. Quit while the dog is successful.

Teach the down in a similar fashion, but always throw the treats on the ground between the dog's front paws. You want the dog to understand the treats come on the ground so there's no incentive to break the down and jump up to get a treat.

If the dog breaks, you made him/her hold the position too long. You want the dog to be successful. When the dog is reliable at home with no distractions, add new locations and distractions. You may have to start all over again, but the teaching should progress much faster. Corrections come much later, only when you are absolutely certain the dog understands.

I think this motivational method also reduces the anxiety many dogs have with holding the position while the handler goes out of sight, because they learn the sit / down without stress.

Patience! This method takes time, but the results are very gratifying.

Regards,

Anita