Do you ever wish you had a magic off-switch for your dog? A designated spot where they could relax, stay put, and politely observe the household chaos without getting involved? Training your dog a solid "place" command can be that magic switch. It’s a skill that transforms a hyperactive pup into a well-mannered companion, providing both you and your dog with a much-needed sense of calm and control.
The "place" command isn't just about obedience; it's about building a stronger bond with your dog. By teaching them to go to a specific location, like a dog bed or mat, and remain there, you're fostering self-control and reinforcing your leadership. This simple command can be a lifesaver during mealtimes, when guests arrive, or even when you just need a few minutes of peace and quiet. It gives your dog a safe, defined space, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. Moreover, mastering "place" is a fantastic foundation for addressing other behavioral issues, such as jumping, barking, and door dashing.
What if my dog won’t stay? How long will it take to teach? And what rewards work best?
How do I choose the right "place" for my dog?
The right "place" for your dog should be a clearly defined, comfortable, and easily accessible area that your dog associates with relaxation and calm. It should be a space where they can go to feel safe and secure, and where they won't be disturbed.
When selecting a location for your dog's "place," consider several factors. First, think about your dog's personality and preferences. Some dogs prefer quiet, secluded spots, while others want to be closer to the action. The place should be away from high-traffic areas like doorways or hallways to minimize distractions. It should also be in a temperature-controlled area – not too hot or too cold. Common choices include a dog bed, a mat, a crate (with the door open after training), or even a designated rug. The size of the place should be appropriate for your dog; large enough for them to comfortably lie down, stand up, and turn around, but not so large that they feel exposed or insecure. The material of the "place" should also be taken into consideration. If your dog tends to chew, a durable, chew-resistant bed or mat is essential. For older dogs or those with joint problems, an orthopedic bed can provide extra support and comfort. Once you've chosen the location and the bed/mat, consistency is key. Always use the same cue word (e.g., "place," "bed," "mat") and consistently direct your dog to that specific location. Making it a positive experience through treats and praise will solidify the association of "place" with relaxation and security.What if my dog won't stay on the place?
If your dog isn't staying on their "place" (bed, mat, etc.), it usually boils down to a lack of consistent training, insufficient motivation to stay, or distractions that are too tempting. Refine your training by shortening the initial duration, increasing reward frequency, and minimizing distractions. Then, gradually increase the duration and distance.
If your dog is struggling to stay, revisit the foundational steps of the "place" command. Are you using clear and consistent verbal cues and hand signals? Ensure your dog understands what "place" means. Start by luring them onto the bed with a treat, saying "place," and immediately rewarding them. Gradually fade the lure as they understand the command. If they break the stay, calmly redirect them back to the place without scolding and start again with a shorter duration. Remember to keep training sessions short, positive, and fun to maintain their engagement. Another key factor is the value of the reward. Is the reward you're offering exciting enough to keep them on the place, especially with distractions present? Try using higher-value treats like small pieces of cooked chicken, cheese, or their favorite toy. Also, consider the environment. Are there loud noises, other pets, or exciting activities happening that are pulling their attention away? Start training in a quiet, low-distraction environment and gradually introduce distractions as they become more reliable with the stay command. Consider creating a positive association with the "place" by giving them enjoyable chews or toys only when they are on their bed. This can make the place itself more rewarding.How long should my dog stay in place for each session?
The duration of each "place" session will vary depending on your dog's experience level, age, and attention span, but generally, aim for short sessions lasting between 5 to 15 minutes. Start with very short durations for the "stay" component (a few seconds) and gradually increase the time as your dog becomes more proficient.
Initially, focus on building a positive association with the "place" command. This means ending each session on a high note before your dog gets bored or frustrated. Keep the initial "stay" durations brief - even just a second or two is sufficient. Reward heavily with praise and treats for even the smallest successes. As your dog masters the command and can hold the "stay" for longer periods, you can gradually increase the duration. However, always prioritize ending the session before your dog loses focus or begins to display signs of stress or restlessness. It's also important to vary the duration of the stays within a single session. Don't simply increase the time linearly. Mix short, easy stays with slightly longer, more challenging ones to keep your dog engaged and prevent them from anticipating the end of the exercise. Always aim for quality over quantity. A few short, focused sessions are far more effective than one long, drawn-out session where your dog's attention wanders. Consider incorporating "place" training into your dog's daily routine in short bursts throughout the day to reinforce the behavior and maintain consistency.What are some fun ways to teach "place"?
Teaching a dog "place" (also known as "go to bed" or "mat training") can be made fun through positive reinforcement and game-like scenarios. Turn it into a rewarding experience by using high-value treats, toys, and enthusiastic praise. Short, frequent training sessions focusing on fun, rather than strict obedience, will build a positive association with the "place" command.
One engaging method is the "treat trail." Start by luring your dog onto the designated "place" (a dog bed, mat, or specific spot) with a treat. As they step onto it, reward them immediately. Gradually increase the distance between the dog and the place, tossing treats onto the bed to encourage them to go there independently. Another enjoyable technique is the "name game," where you say "place" excitedly and when they go reward and say their name joyfully. This teaches them that "place" equals good things. Vary the location of your training sessions to generalize the command, making it effective in different environments. Remember to keep the training sessions short, sweet, and positive. If your dog gets frustrated, take a break and try again later. End each session on a positive note, even if it means going back to an easier step. Over time, your dog will associate "place" with positive experiences and happily go to their designated spot on command. Introducing variations, like having them "place" while you're eating or when guests arrive, can add a fun challenge and reinforce the behavior in real-life situations.How do I fade the lure or reward when teaching place?
Fading the lure or reward in place training involves gradually decreasing your dog's reliance on food or physical guidance to perform the behavior. Start by consistently rewarding them for going to the place, then slowly transition to rewarding intermittently, and finally only rewarding for duration, quality, or when introducing distractions. The goal is for the "place" command to become the reward itself.
Once your dog reliably goes to their place on cue, begin the fading process. Instead of rewarding every single time, start with a variable schedule of reinforcement. This means you'll reward some repetitions but not others, keeping your dog guessing and engaged. For example, reward two out of three times, then one out of two, then one out of three, and so on. Focus your rewards on instances where your dog goes to place quickly, stays there calmly, or ignores distractions. As your dog becomes more proficient, you can further fade the reward by focusing on the duration they hold the place. Reward longer stays, even if it's just a few seconds longer each time. Gradually increase the duration until your dog can stay in place for the desired length of time without a treat. You can also introduce distractions, like walking around the room or dropping a toy, and only reward if your dog remains on their place. Eventually, the verbal praise and the comfort of their designated spot will become sufficient reinforcement for reliably performing the "place" behavior. Remember to be patient and adjust the fading process based on your dog's individual progress.Can "place" help with anxiety or reactivity?
Yes, "place" can be a valuable tool for managing anxiety and reactivity in dogs. By teaching a dog to go to and remain on a designated "place" (like a bed or mat), you provide them with a safe and predictable location where they can learn to self-soothe and disengage from potentially triggering stimuli.
"Place" training helps dogs in several ways. First, it creates a structured environment and a clear expectation, which can reduce anxiety associated with uncertainty. Second, it provides an alternative behavior (going to "place") that the dog can perform instead of reacting to stressors. This redirection can interrupt the reactivity cycle and give the dog a chance to calm down. Finally, consistent training strengthens the association between "place" and relaxation, making it a reliable haven for the dog. The effectiveness of "place" for anxiety and reactivity depends on several factors, including the dog's underlying temperament, the severity of the anxiety or reactivity, and the consistency and quality of the training. It's often most effective when combined with other behavior modification techniques and, in some cases, medication prescribed by a veterinarian. It's important to introduce "place" in a positive and gradual manner, ensuring the dog feels safe and comfortable on their designated spot.How do I generalize "place" to different locations?
Once your dog reliably goes to their "place" on a specific object (like a dog bed), you can generalize the behavior by introducing new, similar objects in different locations. Start by using similar looking objects, gradually increasing the variability, and always rewarding successful placements.
The key to generalization is gradual progression. Don't jump straight from a dog bed in the living room to a towel on the patio. Instead, start with a different dog bed, or a similar-sized mat, in a different room of the house. Use the same verbal cue ("Place!") and lure if necessary, rewarding heavily when your dog performs the desired behavior. Once they are reliably placing on the new object in the new location, you can start phasing out the lure and increasing the difficulty. This might involve using different types of surfaces (e.g., a blanket, a chair, a designated spot on the rug) or moving to slightly more distracting environments, like the backyard when it's quiet.
Remember to keep training sessions short and positive. If your dog struggles, go back a step to an easier variation they understand. Avoid punishment or frustration, as this can negatively impact their willingness to participate. The goal is for your dog to understand that "Place" means "go to and stay on the designated spot," regardless of what that spot is or where it's located. Eventually, with enough practice and positive reinforcement, you can generalize "place" to virtually any location and object.
And that's it! With a little patience and consistency, your dog will be a pro at "place" in no time. Remember to keep it positive and fun for both of you. Thanks so much for reading, and we hope you'll come back soon for more helpful dog training tips!