Why the wait cue is important
Most owners do not understand or differentiate between the “Wait” and “Stay” cue. In some cases they can be used in similar circumstances, but there are some subtle differences. In real life the “Wait” cue is used far more often than “Stay.” I will not review “Stay” in this article today but will focus on the “Wait.”
Wait implies “wait a moment,” rather than “stay still and don’t move indefinitely.” It is meant to be brief; don’t move, pay attention for a moment and be alert for the next cue.
Since there are so many possibilities for use, the dog should learn the essential meaning pretty quickly. It is so varied that you will be surprised at how they pick it up. The hand signal is a moving palm in front of the dog’s face partially blocking their eyes for a moment but also stopping them from proceeding.
The most common uses for “Wait:” going out the door; getting in and out of car; putting them in a crate or having them come out of a crate calmly; putting leash on; feeding; picking up mail at a mailbox; bending over to tie a shoe or picking up poop while walking; stopping for a moment for any reason on a walk etc.
In some cases, you might want the dog to “Sit Wait.” This is used for safety, control or distractions both indoors and outside. Examples are crossing the street, going out door or putting down food bowl. Outside the “Sit Wait” can be used for manners. You stop to chat with someone would be a common use. Since “Wait” must be released your dog should be waiting for the next cue to release them to proceed. View it as a patience cue.
Since “Wait” is brief not like a “Stay” it is released with a word or another command. It can be ok, come, let’s walk, outside, dinner or anything else to release them to move. You could even use “Wait” when you want to throw a toy and have the dog go to get it.
“Wait” is one of the most commonly used daily cues and acts to get them calm quickly. Use it often.
Abby Bird is the owner of Alphadog Training Academy. AlphadogTrainingAcademy@gmail.com
