To begin with the sit-Stay, place your dog in a sitting position beside you. Holding the leash in one hand (most trainers prefer the left), take a long step forward and turn to face him holding your free hand open, palm toward him, fingers pointing downward, in front of his nose and speak the command "stay". if he offers to follow you, as it would be natural for him to do so since this has been his ready position for heel, snap up on the leash to return him to the sit, put your hand in front of his face and repeat the command firmly once more. Allow him to remain sitting for a few seconds before going through the procedure again. Each time he successfully performs, praise him profusely and show him you are pleased with him.

Repeat the procedure until your dog behaves as if he understands what is expected of him. When he has mastered this procedure, step away to the right of him, then behind, then a few steps forward, a few steps to the side, and so on, until you have gone the full length of the leash. anytime your puppy offers to follow you, snap upward on the leash, extending your arm palm forward to him and repeat the command sharply. When he has demonstrated a willingness to remain in the correct position while you walk the full extent of the leash, you are ready to train him to remain in position using a linger length of cord, about 25 to 30 feet, and finally the sit-stay off the leash.

Once the Sit-Stay is learned, you can teach the down-Stay by beginning with the Down command, then apply approximately the same methods as in the Sit-Stay.