Congratulations! Your dog is now sitting on cue It is best to teach your dog from the beginning that “SIT” means to “park it” until I release you. This method eliminates the need for the “Stay” command, because “Stay” is already implied.
Tell your dog to sit and keep him in position for 30 seconds. While your dog is holding a sit periodically feed him a treat. If your dog starts to stand up, quietly say “Nope” and guide him back into position. Repeat the command “Sit”. After 30 seconds, release your dog by saying “FREE” or whatever word you wish to use. When your dog is sitting for 30 seconds consistently, try walking around him with the leash still in your hand. Again, if he tries to get up, repeat the method listed above. Work your way up to 1 minute Sit/Stays. As your dog progresses, he will sit for longer and longer periods of time. Praise and treat your dog while he is sitting correctly.
Be sure to treat your dog before he is released from Sit. This prevents the habit of breaking the sit in anticipation of a treat.
Practice standing further back from the dog while he holds a sit. Periodically walk up to him, feed him a treat, praise and the walk away again.
