The Power of “Wait” — A Simple Command That Can Save Your Dog’s Life-by Student Dina Laroue
Have you ever turned around with your dog’s food bowl full of kibble, only to have them rush at it and send everything flying? Or maybe your dog bolts out the door before you’re ready — or worse, before it’s safe.
We’ve all been there. Luckily, there’s a simple solution that can prevent those messy (and dangerous) moments: teaching your dog to “wait.”
Why “Wait” Matters
I started teaching the wait command because I got tired of cleaning up spilled food bowls and worrying about my dogs jumping out of doors or vehicles before I was ready. Over time, I realized this one simple word could actually save a dog’s life.
“Wait” isn’t just about control — it’s about communication and safety. Whether it’s waiting to eat, to exit a crate, or to step out of a car, this command teaches your dog to pause and look to you for direction. That moment of stillness builds trust, respect, and patience.
A Leadership Lesson
Teaching wait establishes you as the calm, confident leader your dog can rely on. It reminds your dog that you set the pace — not them. My dogs know that I lead in every scenario: feeding, walking, exiting doors, and even loading into the car.
When your dog understands that waiting leads to rewards and freedom, they stop rushing and start cooperating. It transforms everyday chaos into calm partnership.
How to Teach “Wait”
Teaching wait doesn’t take long — usually just a few days of calm, consistent practice.
Start at mealtime. Hold your dog’s food bowl and ask them to sit.
Say “wait” as you lower the bowl. If they rush forward, lift it back up and calmly repeat.
Release them with a cue like “okay” once they’ve held their position.
Keep sessions short and positive. Reward your dog with praise or a treat once they successfully wait for your signal.
It’s amazing how quickly dogs learn to pause — and how much peace that simple pause can bring.
The Reward: Trust and Teamwork
When your dog learns to wait, something special happens. They start looking to you for guidance, not because they have to, but because they want to. That’s when the bond between you and your dog truly deepens.
So, if you’re tired of spilled food and door dashes, teach your dog to wait — and enjoy calmer, safer, and more connected moments together.
Until next time,
Dina
Happy Dog Hotel (Training and Boarding)
📍 www.dinashappydoghotel.com
📧 dinashappydoghotel@gmail.com