How to Train Your Dog to Sit and Stay: Step-by-Step Guide

Dr. Rafael M. Ortega

Published by Jun 18, 2025 at 1:22 AM EDT

12 min read ·

Training your dog to sit and stay on command is an essential skill for every dog owner. Whether you're training a puppy or an adult dog, teaching them these basic commands will help you build a strong bond and ensure better behavior. Follow this step-by-step guide on how to train your dog to sit and stay.

Step 1: Use a New Mat, Blanket, or Towel

Start with a new mat, towel, or blanket. Using something new ensures that your dog sees it as a fresh spot for sitting and staying. You can also use a dog bed, but make sure it’s a new one. Place the mat in a location near the front door, where your dog can easily access it, without obstructing traffic.

Step 2: Place a Treat on the Mat

Stand next to the mat and place a treat on it. Let your dog come over and show interest by sniffing or pawing at it. Once your dog approaches the mat, reward them with the treat. This encourages your dog to associate the mat with a positive reward. When your dog lies down on the mat, you can reinforce this behavior by saying “Yes!”

If you're using clicker training, click the moment your dog lays on the mat to tell them it's the right behavior.

Step 3: Teach Your Dog to Sit on the Mat

When your dog leaves the mat, you may need to place a small treat back on it to encourage them to return. Once your dog is on the mat, give the “sit” command. If your dog sits, reward them with a treat. Over time, your dog will understand that sitting on the mat is linked to rewards.

If your dog is hesitant, try using a tastier treat. Each time your dog sits on the mat, give them the better reward. This will teach them that sitting on the mat brings better rewards.

When using clicker training, click as soon as your dog follows the “sit” command and sits on the mat. Say “Yes!” when they sit to reinforce the right action.

Step 4: Teach Your Dog the “Stay” Command

1. Let Your Dog Leave the Mat

Your dog should understand that in order to play with you, they need to sit on the mat. Let your dog walk to the mat and sit. Then, reward them with a treat and say “Yes!” or click the clicker to reinforce the behavior.

2. Introduce the “Go to Your Place” Command

Introduce the “Go to your place” command. Stand a few feet away from the mat and say, “Go to your place.” You can point to the mat or use hand gestures to guide your dog. Once your dog walks to the mat and sits, reward them with a treat.

3. Tell Your Dog to Stay There

Once your dog sits on the mat, tell them to “stay there.” Walk a few steps away and reward them with a treat and praise if they stay in place.

Step 5: Increase Duration and Distance

Gradually increase the time your dog stays on the mat. You can wait a few seconds longer each session before giving them a treat. This teaches your dog patience and reinforces the idea that staying on the mat is a good behavior.

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Step 6: Test With Guests

When guests arrive, ask your dog to go to the mat and stay while you open the door. Reward your dog with a treat when they remain on the mat while your guests enter. Let your guests give your dog a treat once they stay on the mat. This reinforces the good behavior.

Step 7: Seek Professional Help If Needed

If your dog struggles with the “stay” command, consider enrolling in obedience training or hiring a certified trainer for one-on-one help.

By consistently practicing these commands, you'll learn how to train your dog to sit and stay. Whether you're training a puppy or an adult dog, patience and positive reinforcement are key.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Training your dog to sit and stay is an essential skill for a well-behaved pet. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, your dog will learn to respond to commands reliably. This guide is your step-by-step approach to mastering how to train a dog to sit and stay.

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