When beginning to build distance with the stay in a new environment, such as outside, it’s important to go back to the early stages of training. There will be more distractions, so the exercise needs to be made easier to help your puppy succeed. Start again with short durations and very small amounts of distance, marking with “yes” (or a click) and rewarding in place, don’t call your puppy out of the stay - this will weaken the behaviour. Gradually build up one step at a time, always returning to your puppy to reinforce the position. By lowering the difficulty and progressing slowly, you help your puppy maintain understanding and confidence despite the increased distractions.
