The sit game is one of my favorite exercises, particularly as a foundation for teaching stillness and stays. This simple yet effective game introduces the concept of staying in one position to your dog. Dogs tend to catch on quickly, and the game offers room for variations as needed.

Start the Sit Game for Stillness and Stays

Begin the sit game by cueing the sit or allowing the dog to offer the sit. Once the dog is sitting, hold a treat high above their head and swiftly lower it toward them. If the dog jumps up towards the treat, raise your hand up away from the dog. Observing the dog’s front feet is crucial—if both feet leave the ground, move the treat away. The goal is for the dog to understand that jumping results in the treat being taken away. As soon as the dog sits again, lower the treat.

Move quickly with the treat to ensure the dog’s success in the initial stages. As the dog catches on, raise the criteria by slowing down the treat delivery and introducing variations. Always focus on building on success, making it easier if the dog struggles.

Rapid Treats

Next, teach the stay concept by feeding the dog rapidly in position. The dog stays in place as it receives one treat after another. If the dog moves out of position, stop feeding treats, re-cue the position, and resume feeding once the dog is back in place. As the dog’s position solidifies, gradually slow down the rate of treats.

Slow Treats

Once the dog is comfortable with treats from above and rapid treats, advance to the slow treats game. Move the treats toward the dog from the front, and if the dog breaks position, move the treat away until it resumes the sit. Increase the difficulty as the dog succeeds.

Exciting Variations of the Sit Game for Stillness and Stays

As your dog becomes proficient, you can add excitement to treat delivery. Move it around and tease the dog a little bit. If the dog moves toward the treat, pull it away and reset if needed. Ensure each repetition is easier to build on success.

Stillness in Other Positions

These games can also be adapted to practice stillness in other positions, such as down and stand.

Rapid Treats in a Down:

Rapid Treats in a Stand:

Slow Treats in a Down:

Slow Treats in a Stand:

Incorporating the sit game into your training routine is a powerful way to establish a foundation for stillness and stays. This straightforward yet versatile exercise helps your dog understand the importance of maintaining one position and offers various adaptations to keep training engaging and effective. By using techniques like “Treats from Above,” “Rapid Treats,” and “Slow Treats,” you can progressively build your dog’s ability to stay calm and focused in different positions. Remember, consistency and positive reinforcement are key to success. Enjoy the process and watch your dog thrive as they master stillness and stays through the sit game.