How to Teach Your Dog to Wait at Doors

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   Step 1: Start at an inside door

   Begin with a door that leads to another room, not the street. Put your dog on a lead for safety. Stand by the door with treats ready. Choose a quiet time when your dog is not already overexcited.

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   Step 2: Reward stillness as the door moves

   Touch the handle. If your dog stays still, mark and reward. Open the door an inch. If they move forward, calmly close it. If they hold position, reward. Your dog learns that staying put makes the door open.

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   Step 3: Add a release word

   When your dog waits for a few seconds while the door is open, say a release word such as okay or free, and walk through together. The release tells them when it is their turn, so waiting has a clear end.

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   Step 4: Build duration and distance

   Gradually open the door wider and wait longer before releasing. Then try stepping through yourself first while your dog waits. Increase one element at a time and keep the lead on for any door to the outside.

   Good to know: Never rely on a wait cue alone near traffic. Always use a lead or secure gate.

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   Step 5: Practise at the front door and car

   Move to the front door, then the car door, rewarding waits before release. These are high-excitement spots, so make them easy at first and reward generously.

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   Step 6: Maintain the habit

   Ask for a brief wait at doors throughout the day. Consistency from every household member makes it a natural routine. If your dog keeps rushing, return to easier practice inside.

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