Module 6.13. Wait behaviour
Teaching ‘wait’
Video 1:
To teach a ‘wait’ behaviour, start by placing a piece of food in front of your puppy. Say “wait” and gently move the food slightly away, watching for your puppy to resist following it and show a moment of stillness. Even a brief pause is enough to begin with. As soon as your puppy holds themselves in place, mark the success by releasing them with an “okay” and give them the food. This helps your puppy learn that staying calm and waiting is what earns the reward.
Video 2:
The next exercise focuses on teaching your puppy stillness when you say “wait,” which is a really useful skill for everyday situations like going through doors, getting out of the car, or before crossing a road. Start by throwing a treat out ahead of your puppy, but don’t allow them to access it straight away. Instead, wait for them to become still and release any tension on the lead. As soon as they are calm and not pulling forward, use your release cue “okay” to let them go and get the treat. This helps your puppy learn that patience and stillness are what earn them access to what they want.
