Does your dog bolt the moment you touch the doorknob? Lunging out the front door isn’t just frustrating—it’s dangerous. Whether you’re dealing with a curious puppy or an overly enthusiastic adult dog, teaching them to wait calmly at doors is an essential safety skill.
The good news? With consistency and a few simple steps, your dog can learn to sit patiently until invited to go out. Let’s walk through how to make door manners part of your pup’s everyday behavior.
Why This Skill Matters
Training your dog to wait at doors helps prevent them from running into traffic, chasing after distractions, or knocking over guests. It also establishes trust and impulse control—two cornerstones of good behavior.
Step 1: Start with a Calm Dog
Before you begin, make sure your dog is relatively calm. If they’re hyped up, try a short walk or play session first. You’ll have better results if they’re already in a relaxed state of mind.
Tip: Don’t train during peak excitement times, like right before a walk. Wait until your dog is receptive and focused.
Step 2: Use a “Sit” or “Wait” Command at the Door
With your dog on a leash, approach the door and ask them to “Sit.” Once they do, say “Wait” in a firm but friendly tone. Place your hand in a stop gesture (palm facing them).
If they break position, calmly guide them back and repeat the process. Reward only when they hold the sit for a few seconds.
Step 3: Touch the Doorknob (and Pause)
Now add a small trigger. Touch the doorknob or jiggle your keys. These are cues your dog associates with going outside, so expect a little excitement. If they stand or move, reset and start over. If they stay seated, give praise or a treat.
Repeat: Until they can sit while you touch or open the door slightly.
Step 4: Open the Door in Increments
Open the door just a crack, then close it again if your dog lunges. Only open wider when they remain in place. Keep sessions short and successful.
Reward progression: Give calm praise or a small treat every time they hold position longer than before.
Step 5: Release with a Cue
Once the door is fully open and your dog is calmly waiting, give them a release command like “Okay” or “Let’s go” and step through together. This reinforces that moving forward is a reward for staying calm—not for lunging.
Consistency is key: Use this same process at all doors, including car doors or gates.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Too excited? Go back a step and shorten sessions. Use lower-value treats to reduce overexcitement.
- Not food motivated? Use toys, verbal praise, or simply the act of going outside as a reward.
- Multiple dogs? Train one at a time before expecting group cooperation.
Final Thoughts
Teaching your dog to wait at the door isn’t just about obedience—it’s about safety and mutual respect. With just a few minutes of practice each day, you can turn chaotic exits into peaceful transitions.
And remember: calm dogs aren’t born—they’re trained. You’ve got this.
