Teaching your dog to stand

At a show, they also need to be able to stand still so the judge can see their outline and examine them. This motionless presentation is often called the “stack”.

Start by teaching them to stand comfortably. You will then refine the presentation specific to their breed.

Beginner — Understanding the position

1. Gently guide them into a stand

If your dog is sitting, place a small treat in front of their nose, then move it slowly forward, roughly horizontally.

Try this: as soon as they stand up, say “yes” and reward. Keep your movement short so you don’t lead them off on a walk. You can also reward a moment when they stand up spontaneously.

2. Reward while they are standing

Your timing matters: if you give the treat after they have sat back down, you are rewarding that new position.

The little game: have your reward ready before you start. As soon as all four paws are on the ground and the dog is standing, mark the success and give it immediately.

3. Add the word at the right moment

Once your dog follows the gesture easily, try with an empty hand, then reward with the other hand.

Try this: when this signal works consistently, say “stand” just before the gesture. The word then takes on a precise meaning. There is no need to repeat it over and over if your dog doesn’t understand it yet.

Intermediate — Holding it for a few moments

1. Increase the duration in small steps

Getting up and staying standing are two separate skills. Start with one or two seconds, then reward in the position.

Try this: alternate very short attempts with a few slightly longer ones. If they move a lot, shorten the duration so they can succeed.

2. Give a release signal

Your dog needs to know when they can leave the position. Choose a word like “free” or “finished”.

Your routine: ask for the stand, reward while they hold it, then give the release signal and invite them to move. Keep this word distinct from your usual praise.

3. Change only one difficulty at a time

A position that is easy at home can become harder in the garden or near a passer-by.

Try this: in a new, quiet place, go back to a short duration. Then add a small distraction. Avoid increasing the duration, the distractions and your distance all at once.

Advanced — Preparing the show stack

1. Refine the posture to the breed

Standing is not enough to define a suitable presentation: the placement and the way the dog is shown vary by breed.

Your mission: watch dogs of your breed and have your presentation checked during a handling class. Look for a balanced, comfortable posture; do not force the legs into position.

2. Gradually add handling

The dog must be able to be examined during their presentation. Work on touch separately before combining it with the stand.

Try this: ask for a short stand, add a touch on an area they already accept well, then reward and release. Then bring in a calm person, ideally with an instructor.

3. Work on your own position around the dog

Your dog may move simply because you change position. Prepare these small movements gradually.

Try this: shift one foot slightly, then reward if they stay standing. Later, practise positioning yourself beside them as in the presentation. At first, shorten the duration as soon as you add this movement.

What if they sit?

Start again calmly, reward earlier and check that your gesture isn’t encouraging them to sit. A treat held too high can complicate your request.

One successful second is worth more than a long, muddled attempt.

The durations and exercises suggested are teaching guidelines, not regulatory requirements. The illustration shows the general steps; it does not define an ideal paw placement for all breeds.