How to Teach Your Dog to Wait: A Trainer’s Complete Guide
A small brown and white Terrier mix patiently waits for his bowl of kibble while practicing the “wait” cue.
How to Teach Your Dog to Wait (And Why It’s So Important)
“Wait.”
Such a small word, but wow, can it change everything.
Imagine this: You’re carrying a hot cup of coffee in one hand and trying to open the front door with the other. Your dog is doing their best impression of a rodeo bull, charging forward the moment the door cracks open. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
“Wait” is one of the most valuable skills you can teach your dog — not just because it’s polite, but because it keeps them safe, gives you a moment of peace, and teaches them impulse control (a fancy way of saying they learn not to act on their every wild impulse).
And here’s the kicker — it’s not just for doors. “Wait” is one of the most versatile commands you’ll ever use:
🚪 Wait at the door so they don’t barrel past you or dart into traffic.
🥣 Wait for food so they don’t turn into a furry vacuum the second the bowl hits the floor.
🐾 Wait on walks when you pause for a chat, tie your shoe, or need them to hold up for a second.
🏡 Wait in the crate until you’re ready for them to step out calmly.
🎾 Wait for a toy or treat so they don’t snap at your fingers in excitement.
But here’s the thing: “Wait” is different from “Stay,” and it’s definitely different from “Leave It.”
🚫 Stay means "Don’t move until I come back or release you."
🍔 Leave It means "That’s not for you. Never touch it."
⏸️ Wait means "Hold on a sec. I’ll let you know when it’s okay."
In this blog, I’ll show you how to teach your dog to wait in a way that actually works — whether you’re dealing with a bouncy puppy who thinks patience is a myth or an enthusiastic adult who just needs a little more impulse control.
Ready to transform your chaos into calm? Let’s dive in.
What is “Wait” and Why It’s Different from “Stay” and “Leave It”
“Wait” is a powerful cue that teaches your dog to pause for a moment — but it’s not the same as “Stay” or “Leave It.” Understanding these differences is the key to using them correctly:
🚫 Stay: Your dog is expected to remain in a specific spot without moving until you release them. Think of it as a long-term hold — perfect for when you need them to stay put for more than a few seconds. Use this when you need your dog to stay on their bed while you answer the door or while you step out of the room briefly.
🍔 Leave It: This means “Don’t touch that, ever.” Whether it’s a dropped piece of chocolate, a squirrel darting across the yard, or a sock they shouldn’t shred, “Leave It” tells your dog that this is off-limits. It’s about safety and making sure your dog avoids things that could harm them.
⏸️ Wait: This is a temporary pause. Your dog is free to move after you release them, but not until you give the signal. Think of it like a “pause” button instead of a “full stop.” Use this when you want your dog to pause at the door before going out, to wait for permission to eat their food, or to stop briefly during a walk.
🐾 Why Wait is So Powerful:
It’s versatile: You can use it at the door, before meals, getting out of the car, or even before fetching a toy.
It’s practical: It keeps your dog from bolting, jumping, or accidentally getting hurt.
It builds impulse control: This is a skill that carries over to all other areas of training.
Trainer Tip:
Have a treat pouch handy to reward good behavior right away. I love using a durable, easy-access treat pouch for this. 👉 My Favorite Treat Pouch
Heads up: This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something I’ve shared, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). I only recommend tools and products I personally use or love. Read my full disclaimer here
A Poodle mix waits at a fully open back door before being released with “Free!” to go outside to play
🚪 Wait at the Door — Preventing Door Dashing
“Wait” at the door is one of the most practical and potentially life-saving uses of this cue. It prevents your dog from bolting out the door, which can be dangerous — especially if you live near a busy street. The same principle applies to “Wait” when opening a crate door.
Why Teach Wait at the Door?
Safety First: A dog that rushes out the door can get hurt or lost.
Impulse Control: It teaches them patience and self-control.
Predictable Routine: Your dog learns that doors don’t open until they’re calm.
How to Teach Wait at the Door:
Start with Your Dog on Leash: This gives you control and prevents them from dashing out.
Stand in Front of the Door: Make sure you have your treat pouch ready.
Reach for the Door Handle: If your dog rushes forward, say “Oops!” and close the door immediately.
Repeat Until They Pause: When they finally pause when the door is open or step back, praise and reward them.
Once the Door is Fully Open, Give the Release Cue: Use a word like “Okay” or “Free” to release.
Practice Until It’s Reliable: Gradually phase out treats but keep verbal praise.
Increase Duration of the Pause: Gradually make your pup wait longer with the door open before releasing
Trainer Tips:
Use High-Value Treats: Especially in the beginning. You want them to be motivated.
👉 My Favorite High-Value TreatsIf They Struggle: Try using a baby gate in front of the door for extra control.
Practice in Different Scenarios: Front door, back door, crate door, car door — variety builds reliability.
🚪 Advanced Wait at the Door — Proofing and Reliable Control
Once your dog understands the basics of “Wait” at the door, it’s time to advance their skills. The goal here is to ensure your dog knows that just because the door is open or you’re moving around, it doesn’t mean they’re free to leave until you give the release cue.
Why Proofing Matters
Real-Life Control: Your dog may encounter moments where a door is open, but it's not safe to go through.
Impulse Control Practice: Your dog learns that your movement doesn’t automatically mean they should follow.
Increased Safety: This level of control can prevent accidents, especially in busy environments.
How to Proof Your Dog’s “Wait” at the Door:
Start Small: Begin with a short pause after asking for “Wait” at the door.
Introduce Movement: Take a small step forward. If your dog holds their position, immediately reward them with a treat right where they are waiting.
Gradually Increase Complexity: Begin to add more movement — a small step forward, then a step back. Lift your hand, sway your body, or take a full step out the door while they stay put. Reward each success.
Open the Door Fully: Work up to having the door completely open while you move. Step outside the door frame, but don’t give the release cue.
Use Consequences for Breaking Position: If your dog breaks their “Wait,” calmly close the door without any reward. Or, if they sneak through, step into their space gently, guiding them back.
Add Duration: Once they understand your movement isn’t an automatic release, begin to extend the amount of time they must “Wait” before being released.
Advanced Training Techniques:
Vary Your Movements: Practice with turning your back, walking in a small circle, or dancing slightly (yes, it sounds silly, but it works).
Reward Back in Position: Always bring the reward back to where you want them to be waiting. If they move forward, they don’t get the treat.
Gradually Reduce Treats: Once they become reliable, you can slowly decrease the frequency of treats. The release itself becomes the reward.
Troubleshooting:
Leash Control Only at the Start: Don’t use the leash to hold them in place forever. They must learn to choose to stay on their own.
Reinforce with Praise: Even as you phase out treats, your voice and attention can be a powerful reward.
Create a Calm Pattern: If they get too excited, pause the session, wait for calm, and try again.
When to Use Advanced Wait at the Door:
Before walks — prevent door dashing.
At car doors — for safety in parking lots.
Crate doors — for calm exits.
Home entrances — for guests or when carrying groceries.
🐾 Pro Tip: Build this skill in different locations to ensure they understand the concept of “Wait” everywhere, not just at one door.
A Retriever waits at the door of his crate for his release cue “free!”
🛏️ Wait Coming Out of the Crate — Building Calmness and Control
Just like at the door, teaching your dog to “Wait” before exiting their crate helps build patience and keeps them from rushing out in an excited frenzy. This is especially important for dogs who get overly excited when you come home or those who struggle with impulse control.
Why Wait at the Crate Matters:
Prevents Door-Darting: Stops them from bursting out the moment the door opens.
Reinforces Calm Behavior: They learn that calmness is what earns freedom.
Supports Safe Transitions: Particularly helpful for multiple-dog households.
How to Teach Wait at the Crate:
These steps are nearly identical to the “Wait at Doors” steps, with slight nuances. Waiting at the crate is a great way to implement impulse control. If your puppy is very young and you suspect they have to go to the bathroom urgently, do not practice this for long. You may want to just scoop them up and rush them outside. Make sure to practice this after your puppies needs have been met. For longer dogs, they can hold their bladders longer, so you can stretch your sessions.
Start with Your Dog Inside the Crate:
Make sure they are calm before you begin. This means if your dog is pawing, barking, carrying on, walk away and ignore them until they are quiet.
Introduce the Cue:
Say “Wait” in a calm but clear voice. Only say this cue once before opening the door.
Begin to unlatch or open the crate door slightly.
Close the Door if They Move:
If they try to rush out, gently close the door without a word.
This isn’t punishment — it’s simply a reset.
If they manage to sneak through, use your body to block them to prevent them from escaping.
For escape artists who try to push past you, use this time to slip on a leash while keeping the door closed with slack in the leash. I recommend a slip lead for its quick, hassle-free use.
👉 Check out my favorite slip lead here
Reward When They Stay Still:
Mark with “Yes!” and give a treat if they stay calm.
Repeat this a few times by opening and closing the door until they understand that patience is rewarded.
Gradually Increase the Challenge:
Begin to open the door wider.
Take a step back without them rushing out.
If they move, close the door and calmly reset.
Add a Release Cue:
Once they’re holding position reliably, introduce a release word like “Okay!” or “Free!”
Keep the release calm to prevent escalating into other unwanted behaviors. Avoid throwing them a large party for the release. The fun part should be the pause because that’s what should be most highly rewarded in these early stages.
Pro Tips:
Slip a Leash on if They are Known Bolters: This provides extra control after they exit the crate as well.
Body Blocking Can Help: If they try to push out, use your body to gently block them.
Vary the Duration: Sometimes make them wait a second, other times half a minute — this keeps them focused.
Practice at Different Times: Morning, after a nap, and when you come home — this prevents them from expecting a pattern.
Be consistent: Make them wait at their crate door every single time, even if it is for a brief moment.
Product Recommendations:
👉 Check out our training guide on The Best Enrichment Toys and Activities
👉 Need help introducing the crate? Check out our Crate Training Training Guide
A Terrier waits patiently for her release cue, “Free!" in order to eat her bowl of kibble
🍴 Wait for the Food Bowl — Teaching Patience at Mealtime
“Wait” for food is a powerful way to teach your dog patience and self-control. It’s an easy, everyday exercise that can transform your dog's mindset from frantic to focused.
Why Teach Wait for Food?
Prevents Chaos: No more jumping, barking, or lunging at the bowl.
Builds Impulse Control: Your dog learns to manage their excitement.
Great for Multi-Dog Households: Helps maintain order at mealtimes.
How to Teach Wait for the Food Bowl:
Start with Clear Communication:
Hold the bowl at chest level and say “Wait” in a calm voice.
If your dog stays still, lower the bowl slightly.
Condition the Word “Wait”:
Say “Wait,” then pause briefly.
If your dog stays put, say “Yes!” and offer a treat (not the full bowl yet).
If they lunge for it, lift the bowl back up and try again
Repeat until they begin to understand that “Wait” means pause.
Gradually Build Duration:
Say “Wait,” then slowly lower the bowl closer to the ground.
If they move forward, lift the bowl back up.
If they remain calm, reward with a treat, then give them the bowl with your release word (“Okay!” or “Free!”).
Introduce Intermittent Rewards:
Sometimes, reward them without giving the bowl immediately.
This keeps them engaged and makes them guess when they will get their food.
Use Body Blocking as a Consequence:
If they lunge forward, step toward them with gentle body pressure to create space, or abruptly remove the bowl again.
This teaches them that rushing in makes the reward further away.
Pro Tips:
Start with Short Waits: Just a second or two at first.
Don’t Make Them Guess: Use the same release word each time (“Okay” or “Free”).
If They Struggle: Use a place cue with a mat or dog bed to help anchor them to a familiar spot
👉 Read our training guide on How to Teach Your Dog PlaceFor Fast Eaters: Try a slow feeder bowl.
👉 My Favorite Slow FeederFor impulse lungers, tether your dog to a heavy piece of furniture
👉 My Favorite Furniture Tether
A young Briard waits patiently for his release cue to chew his bone while practicing “wait”
🍖 Wait for Toys & Treats — Building Patience and Precision
Teaching your dog to “Wait” before taking a treat or grabbing a toy is a fantastic exercise in impulse control. It’s also a great way to ensure your dog take these items gently — especially for dogs who tend to grab too enthusiastically.
Why Wait for Treats Matters:
Encourages Polite Behavior: No more snatching treats or toys out of your hands.
Increases Focus: Your dog learns to look to you for permission.
Strengthens Self-Control: Helps them learn patience in high-energy situations.
How to Teach Wait for Treats:
Start with a Low-Value Treat or a Less-Exciting Toy:
Have your dog sit or stand in front of you.
Hold the item behind your back
Introduce the Cue:
Say “Wait” clearly and then present the item in front of you, but not close to your dog
If they try to snatch, remove the item behind your back.
Try Again and Wait for Calm Behavior:
The moment they stop trying to grab (even for a split second), mark it with a calm “Yes!” and reward.
If they remain calm, use your release word of “Free!” or “Okay!” and allow them to get the item
Practice on the Floor:
Progress to placing the item on the ground after cueing “wait”
Your dog may be tempted to dive for it — be ready to cover the item with your hand, or snatch it up quickly if they do.
Reward only when they stay back and wait patiently.
Gradually Increase the Challenge:
Use higher-value treats as they improve.
Add in more challenging toys that they love.
Reduce the between them and the item by placing it closer to them on the floor
Make them wait longer before releasing them.
Pro Tips:
Don’t Use the Leash to Hold Them Back: If your dog is impulsive and you are utilizing a leash, be mindful of holding them back. They need to make the choice themselves. The leash and tether are just there as a back up.
Be Patient: Especially for young puppies, this may take several tries.
Use a Calm Tone: Excited energy can cause them to lose focus.
🚨 Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Rushing the Process: Let them think through the decision.
Accidentally Rewarding Snatching: Only give the treat when they are calm.
Using a Harsh Voice: This can cause anxiety and make them less willing to try.
A yellow Lab, a cream Poodle, and a black Poodle patiently wait on stairs waiting for their release cue of “free!”
🪜 Wait at the Stairs — For Safety and Control
Teaching “Wait” at the stairs can prevent accidents and keep your dog’s energy in check, especially on slippery or steep steps.
Why Teach Wait at the Stairs?
🚫 Prevents Tripping: Your dog won’t barrel past you.
😌 Promotes Calm Transitions: No more chaotic sprints.
🧘 Supports Anxious Dogs: Provides clear expectations.
How to Teach Wait at the Stairs:
Condition the Word “Wait”:
With your dog on leash, approach the stairs
Say “Wait” and reward immediately after coming to a full stop.
Use a long leash for light guidance at first if needed.
👉 My favorite Long LineRepeat this a few times to build understanding.
Reward for Distance:
Stand in front of them at the top or bottom of the stairs.
Say “Wait” and begin walking down one step.
If they try to follow, gently block with your body.
Step back down, and reward if they stay, even if just for a second.
Gradually increase the distance — two steps, then three, and so on, returning to them each time to reward.
Introduce Release Cue:
Once they’re consistently waiting, use a release word like “Okay!” or “Free!” to invite them to follow.
Move to Intermittent Rewards:
Sometimes reward after just a few steps.
Other times, have them wait until you reach the bottom before releasing.
Add Distractions Gradually:
Start in a quiet area with no other pets or people.
Gradually practice with other family members walking by.
Alternative Method: Step-by-Step Pause on Leash
If you’re on a walk and encounter stairs, try this method:
Start with your dog on a leash.
At the top or bottom of the stairs, cue “Wait” and reward.
Begin walking down, pausing every few steps with another “Wait.”
Reward each successful pause, keeping your dog by your side.
This prevents them from rushing ahead or pulling you up/down the stairs.
This method is especially useful for high-energy dogs who tend to charge ahead.
Pro Tips:
Consistency is Key: Use the same release word (“Okay” or “Free”).
Be Mindful of Anxiety: Some dogs struggle with stairs — go slow.
Reward Calm Choices: If they wait patiently without you asking, praise them.
A Beagle offers eye contact while practicing "wait" on walks.
🚶♂️ Wait on Walks — For Safety and Control
Using “Wait” on walks is an essential skill for safety and maintaining your dog’s focus. Whether you’re crossing the street, passing another dog, or pausing to tie your shoe, “Wait” helps keep your dog calm and close.
Why Teach Wait on Walks?
Safety First: Prevents them from darting into traffic or lunging at distractions.
Builds Focus: Your dog learns to look to you for guidance.
Flexible Use: Great for pausing before stairs, doorways, or crosswalks.
How to Teach Wait on Walks:
Start with a Verbal “Wait”:
Say “Wait” as you come to a slow stop. At first you may need to gently guide them to a stop with your leash, but this should fade after a few attempts.
When they pause, reward immediately.
If they don’t, gently use your body to block them or step into their space.
Don’t Use the Leash to Hold Them Back:
The goal is for your dog to understand the “Wait” command without needing you to physically stop them.
At first, you may use the leash as a gentle guide to slow them down, but avoid creating constant tension.
Eventually, there should be no tension on the leash — your dog should stop because they understand the word.
Be mindful that it may take your dog a few steps to come to a full stop and that is okay.
Introduce Intermittent Rewards:
Sometimes reward right away.
Other times, have them wait a few seconds for the reward.
Practice Often and Everywhere:
Ask for “Wait” at different points on the walk — before crossing the street, at the curb, before entering a park, or randomly mid-walk.
Pro Tips:
Don’t Be Predictable: Sometimes wait is just a brief pause, other times it’s a few seconds.
Use Your Anchor Hand: If you’re holding the leash properly, you can maintain control without tension.
👉 Check out my leash walking blog for the proper leash grip.Practice in Safe Areas First: Before trying it on busy streets.
Introduce Next to a Wall: This helps keep your dog straight and provides you control if you need to block them for continuing forward.
🔧 Common Mistakes When Teaching Wait
Teaching “Wait” seems simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can sabotage your progress:
🚫 Using the Leash to Physically Hold Them Back: If you’re holding them back with the leash, they’re not actually learning self-control. Instead, you’re doing all the work. Gradually transition from using the leash for guidance to having a loose leash with no tension for every one of these exercises.
🚫 Repeating the Cue Over and Over: Saying “Wait, wait, wait!” doesn’t make the command stronger — it makes it weaker. Say it once, clearly and confidently. If they break the wait, calmly reset and try again.
🚫 Lack of Consistency: If one family member enforces the wait, but others don’t, your dog will be confused. Make sure everyone in the household is on the same page about using the “Wait” command and reinforcing it properly.
🚫 Not Practicing with Different Contexts: A dog who waits at the front door may not automatically understand how to wait at the back door, the car door, for food, or before going up or down stairs. Practice in a variety of situations.
🚫 Rewarding When They Break: If your dog breaks the wait and you still offer them a treat, praise or let them continue to eat out of the bowl, they’re learning that breaking the wait gets them what they want. Be clear with your timing — only reward when they succeed.
Advanced Wait Challenges: Taking It to the Next Level
Once your dog has mastered the basics of “Wait,” you can increase the difficulty with advanced challenges:
1️⃣ Wait with Distance: Have your dog wait while you walk several steps away. Gradually increase the distance, but be ready to return and reward them quickly at first.
2️⃣ Wait with Distractions: Practice with mild distractions (like a moving toy), then build up to more challenging ones (like another person walking by, or a tossed treat).
3️⃣ Wait Around Other Dogs: If your dog is comfortable, practice around calm, friendly dogs. This helps them maintain focus even in exciting environments.
4️⃣ Wait with Out-of-Sight Duration: Build your dog’s ability to wait even when they can’t see you. Start with just a second or two, then gradually increase.
5️⃣ Wait for Release Cue Only: Instead of releasing them with the reward, reward them while they’re waiting but only release them when you say your release word (like “Okay!” or “Free!”).
Troubleshooting: What If My Dog Keeps Breaking Wait?
If your dog is struggling with “Wait,” here are a few ways to get back on track:
✅ Go Back to Basics: If they keep breaking, you may be moving too fast. Shorten the wait time or reduce distractions until they’re more confident.
✅ Adjust Your Body Language: Use your body to create a physical block if they try to move forward. Step into them gently but firmly, then try again.
✅ Reduce Your Expectations Temporarily: For highly energetic dogs, you may need to ask for a very short wait (1-2 seconds) at first.
✅ Use a Physical Barrier: For dogs who struggle with impulse control, using a leash, baby gate, or door can help set clear boundaries while they learn.
✅ Increase the Value of the Reward: If your dog is ignoring the wait, they may not be motivated enough. Use higher-value treats (like cheese, hot dogs, or special training treats).
✅ Stay Calm: If you get frustrated, your dog will feel it. Breathe, reset, and try again. Patience and consistency are key.
✨ Final Thoughts on Teaching "Wait"
Teaching “Wait” isn’t just about obedience — it’s about building trust, patience, and clear communication between you and your dog. Whether you’re using it at the door, before meals, or in other everyday situations, “Wait” empowers your dog to practice self-control while strengthening your bond.
Remember, patience is key. If your dog struggles, simply take a step back, reduce distractions, and celebrate the small wins. Consistency and positive reinforcement will help your dog master this valuable skill.
🐾 Need Help with Your Dog’s Training?
If you’re struggling to teach “Wait” or have a more complex behavior issue, we are here to help.
👉 Reach out to Channeled Canine Coaching for personalized training support.
We offer in-home and virtual support worldwide.
💬 Let’s Hear from You!
Have you taught your dog “Wait” before? What’s their biggest struggle with it? Do you have a unique way of practicing it? Drop a comment below — I’d love to hear from you!
About the Author
Jackie Audette is the founder and head trainer at Channeled Canine Coaching based out of Alpharetta, GA, and virtually servicing clients worldwide. She is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) and a Certified Guide Dog Mobility Instructor (GDMI), with over a decade of experience working with pet dogs, service dogs, and complex behavior cases. Jackie holds a bachelors degree in Animal Science and specializes in modern, reward-based training that builds trust and real-life results.
