How to Train Stay Using a Long Lead
Teaching your dog to stay is one of the most important skills you can train — it’s essential for their safety, focus, and good behaviour in a variety of situations. Using a long lead when proofing the stay command allows you to gradually increase distance and distractions while keeping your dog safe and under control.
Why Use a Long Lead?
A long lead gives your dog more room to practise staying from a distance, while still allowing you to maintain safety and control. It’s particularly useful for young or excitable dogs who may not yet have full recall or impulse control. The long lead prevents your dog from running off, whilst still providing enough space to build up duration and reliability.
Getting Started: Low-Distraction Environments
Begin in a quiet, low-distraction space such as your back garden or a calm park. If your dog is easily distracted, you might find an empty car park even more helpful to start with.
Attach the long lead to your dog’s harness or collar.
Step a short distance away, and give the stay cue — either with a verbal command, hand signal, or both.
Maintain soft eye contact, and watch your dog closely.
If your dog moves, calmly guide them back into position using the lead, and make the task easier (reduce distance or duration).
Praise and reward generously when they remain in the stay position.
Be patient and keep sessions short and positive. Gradually increase the distance and duration as your dog becomes more confident and reliable.
Introducing Distractions
Once your dog is holding a stay well in calm settings, begin adding gentle distractions:
Toss a toy nearby.
Have another person walk past at a distance.
Drop treats (but don’t let your dog break the stay to get them).
If your dog holds the stay, reward them generously. If they break the position, gently guide them back and reduce the difficulty.
Keep sessions fun and varied. Always finish on a positive note to build your dog’s confidence.
Real-Life Application: The Front Door
One of the most practical uses of a reliable stay is at the front door — preventing your dog from bolting outside. To practise this safely:
Secure the long lead by tying it to something sturdy indoors (like inside a cupboard), or have someone hold it.
Ask your dog to stay, then open the front door slowly.
Step outside while keeping your dog in view.
If they remain in place, praise and reward!
If they struggle, reduce the challenge — for example, by only touching the door handle instead of opening the door.
This exercise should be introduced gradually. Don’t rush. If your dog finds it too difficult, take a step back in your training and work on easier versions first.
Final Thoughts
Teaching a reliable stay takes time, consistency, and a gentle approach. Use the long lead as a tool for success — not restraint. Every successful stay should be rewarded with treats, praise, or play to reinforce the behaviour you want to see more of.
With patient, positive training, your dog will learn to stay calm and focused, no matter what’s happening around them.
📍Based in Ayr, Scotland - Dog Trainer serving Girvan, Maybole, Ayr, Maidens and surrounding areas of South Ayrshire Scotland
📬 Get in touch for support with dog behaviour, introductions, and positive training.