Two-At-A-Time Steadiness

Training steadiness two-at-a-time isn't only possible - it's powerful.

When it comes to training steadiness in spaniels and other gundogs, many handlers assume it’s something that has to be done one-on-one. And in the early stages—especially with young or inexperienced dogs—that’s absolutely true. A solid foundation in basic obedience and impulse control should be built individually.

But once those foundations are in place? That’s when the real magic begins—and that’s where two-at-a-time steadiness training comes into its own.

Why train steadiness with two dogs?

Think about what you're really asking of your dog when you say sit and stay: you're asking them to override every instinct to chase, play, run, or follow. Now imagine doing that while their best mate is right beside them—and one of them is being called forward while the other has to hold steady. That's next-level obedience, and it's absolutely achievable.

Not only is this type of training manageable, it’s incredibly beneficial.

Dogs learn best when they're challenged, and this kind of challenge forces them to engage a deeper level of focus and self-control. That part of the brain that lights up with excitement—“My friend’s running! Should I go too?”—has to work overtime to stay calm and still. That kind of discipline doesn't just help in training scenarios—it’s critical in the real world.

Real-world relevance

In shooting situations, multiple dogs are often asked to perform different jobs: one retrieves, one holds position, another is sent back or asked to wait. If your dog can’t resist the temptation to rush in when it's not their turn, it can disrupt the entire shoot - and worse, you might not be invited back.

Even outside of working days, life is full of distractions: other dogs, wildlife, joggers, cyclists. A dog with advanced steadiness training is simply safer, more reliable, and more enjoyable to work with.

How to begin two-at-a-time steadiness training

Once both dogs understand sit and wait reliably on their own, it’s time to introduce the challenge of working together. Here’s a simple exercise to get started - I've used two of my dogs, Jester and Cassie, to illustrate. Obviously you'll be using your own dogs' names when it's your turn!

1. Sit both dogs side-by-side and take a few steps away.

2. If you use the “wait” command (I do), say it firmly—“Wait. Wait.”

3. Choose one dog to remain still. Let’s say Jester is on your left.

   • Look directly at Jester, raise your left hand, and say firmly: “Wait, Jester.”

4. Then, with your right hand low and relaxed, in a softer, lighter tone, invite the other dog—“Cassie, come.”

5. Praise Cassie warmly as she reaches you.

6. Don’t forget to reward Jester for staying steady—“Good boy - good wait!”

7. Now swap roles. Sit both dogs again.

   • This time, raise your right hand to Cassie, firmly: “Wait, Cassie.”

   • Then quietly invite Jester forward with your left hand and gentle tone: “Jester, come.” Needless to say, when they've made it - praise them both to the skies!

With time and consistency, you’ll be able to move much further away—across entire fields even—calling one dog while the other waits like a statue. It becomes a brilliant game, and dogs love games where there’s a challenge and a clear reward.

Make It fun - make It stick

Like children, dogs thrive when learning is made fun and engaging. Layering up steadiness in a playful way strengthens not only their obedience but your bond with them. Two-at-a-time training isn’t just about control—it’s about connection, trust, and teamwork. And there's so much more you can do to develop this advanced skillset.

Want more ideas for building two-dog steadiness into your training routine? Keep visiting our blog for more tips, games, and challenges to stretch your spaniel’s focus and elevate your gundog handling.