Teaching your dog to “wait” is an invaluable skill that can help create a calm, well-behaved dog. Unlike “stay,” which is a command that tells your dog to remain in one position, “wait” is a command that tells your dog to pause and wait for further instruction.
Perhaps the most common situations in which you might use the “wait” command are at a door or gate. You would not want your dog to bolt out the door or gate and get lost, or even injured, so this “wait” cue conditions him to wait patiently until you give him the all-clear to move on.
Another situation in which the “wait” command is quite functional is during the feeding of your dog. While teaching your dog to wait for food, you are going to help your dog not get too excited and probably choke while eating. This will also teach your dog some kind of impulse control that can be helpful in other areas of life.
Teaching your dog to “wait” can also help your dog become a calmer dog on the whole. When a dog knows to wait for a command, it will be much less inclined to get anxious or overexcited regarding something. This can help prevent problem behaviors like jumping, barking, or digging.
It’s important to note that “wait” and “stay” are not the same commands. “Stay” is a command that tells your dog to remain in one position until you release them. “Wait,” on the other hand, is a command that tells your dog to pause and wait for further instruction. For example, you might use the “stay” command when you want your dog to remain in one spot while you go to the store. But you might use the “wait” command when you’re about to cross a busy street and need your dog to pause until it’s safe to proceed.
To teach your dog to “wait,” start by having them sit or lie down in front of you. Then, hold up your hand like a stop sign and say “wait.” If your dog tries to move, gently block them with your hand and repeat the command. Once your dog has waited for a few seconds, reward them with a treat or praise. Do this several times, then extend the time that your dog must wait for before giving him a reward.
In conclusion, teaching your dog to “wait” is a valuable skill that can really help owners raise a much calmer and better-behaved dog. You can prevent problems by using the “wait” command in those situations where you want your dog to pause and wait for further instruction; helping your dog learn impulse control. And by teaching your dog this skill, you are building a better bond and improving your communication with them.