How to Teach Your Dog “Place” (Go to Bed/Mat)
Teaching your dog the “place” command (sometimes called “go to bed” or “go to mat”) is one of the most useful training skills you can teach. It gives your dog a calm, safe spot to relax and helps manage excitement, door greetings, or meal times.
Why Teach “Place”?
- Impulse control: Teaches dogs to settle instead of jumping or pacing.
- Management tool: Redirects behavior during meals, visitors, or delivery drop-offs.
- Confidence building: Gives nervous dogs a “safe spot.”
- Travel readiness: Helpful for crate training, vet visits, or staying in new environments.
What You’ll Need
- A designated mat, bed, or blanket (portable works best).
- Small, high-value treats.
- A clicker or verbal marker (like “yes!”).
- Optional: calming chews.
Step-by-Step Training Guide
Step 1: Introduce the Mat
Place the mat or bed on the floor. Reward your dog for sniffing or stepping toward it. This builds a positive association.
Step 2: Lure Onto the Mat
Use a treat to guide your dog onto the mat. The moment all four paws are on, mark (“yes!” or click) and reward.
Step 3: Add a Duration Cue
Ask your dog to “sit” or “down” on the mat. Reward while they remain there for a few seconds. Slowly increase the time before rewarding.
Step 4: Add the Verbal Cue “Place”
Say “place” right before luring your dog onto the mat. With repetition, your dog will learn to go there on cue without needing the lure.
Step 5: Add Distance & Distractions
Practice sending your dog to the mat from different areas of the room. Add light distractions (like someone walking past) and reward when your dog stays put.
Step 6: Generalize the Skill
Use the cue in different rooms, outside, or when visitors arrive. Always reward success and gradually reduce treats over time.
Common Challenges & Tips
- Dog won’t stay: Shorten the session and reward more frequently. Build duration slowly.
- Easily distracted: Start in a quiet space before adding real-life distractions.
- Mat avoidance: Make the mat extra appealing with a favorite toy, chew, or blanket.
How Long Does It Take to Teach “Place”?
Most dogs learn the basics in 1–2 weeks with consistent, daily practice. Puppies and highly food-motivated dogs often pick it up quickly, while stressed or distracted dogs may need extra time and patience.
The Bottom Line
Teaching “place” gives your dog a clear, safe spot to relax when life gets busy. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, this skill becomes one of the most valuable tools in your training toolbox.
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