-
Great question Paula and great idea, @Cheryl7 ! I love this creative thinking, that would be a great thing to try.
First of all, Paula, @Bernerlabreclectus – 10-15 in for a Stay is quite impressive – nice work.
Secondly, consider whether you have gradually increased the time between treats enough? And have you varied the time in between treats enough?
Ask yourself if the dogs have relaxed into that Stay, or if they are anxiously awaiting the next treat. If they appear to be “jumpy” or “on their toes” – then they haven’t “dropped into” the real idea of the Stay, which is to settle and enjoy the relaxation time. You’re looking for the dog to be thinking like the famous Beatles lyric, “Oh, that magic feeling, nowhere to go.”
Consider Cheryl’s idea and also consider using a short tether so the dog gets a combo of a Kong or bone type of treat, but also has no where else to go. The tether only works well with dogs that are already “calmed” into the Stay and don’t mind separation/barriers. Watching the body language is important for this, just like it is with all training.
Experiment and share some video with us if you can!