Life-Changing Dog Training - The Place Command

The place command can be useful in so many situations. You can have your dog go to his place anytime you need to keep him out of trouble. Here are just a few examples:

• Front Door Greetings : It’s great for when the doorbell rings and your dog rushes the door. Train your dog the place command to have him wait patiently on his bed. You can then open the door and greet your guest without your dog creating chaos.
• Resource Guarding: We also use it for our “resource aggressive ” dog, Ginger. We put her in her “place” during dinner time, or anytime someone is eating a snack on the couch.
• Jumping: If you have issues with your dog jumping on people, use a dog training mat to place your dog. This will help your dog calm down and keep your friends safe from being jumped on.
• Children: If you have young kids and want to keep them safe from an overly excited dog. Or maybe keep the dog safe from a nose poking, tail pulling toddler! Read Why Family Dogs Bite.

1. Put your dog on a leash.
2. Standing only a few feet away from his dog bed or mat, say “PLACE” and guide your dog on to the mat.
3. Once he has all four feet on the mat, say “GOOD” and give him a high-valued treat. Treats are not necessary but can add motivation if your dog doesn’t want to go on to the mat.
4. Your dog does not need to sit or lay down… he just needs to have all four paws on the dog mat. He can do anything he wants as long as he stays on that space. If the dog gets up before you release him, say NO and then simply guide your dog back the mat. Do NOT repeat the command.
5. Start this command with no distractions , leaving him by only a foot, for a few seconds. Gradually extend the time and distance. You can add distractions after he fully understands the command and can stay in the PLACE for at least 2 minutes at a time.
6. Practice and repeat until your dog can remain in his place. Do not expect him to stay for more than 10 seconds in the beginning, slowly extend the time as you practice.
7. Slowly add distractions , such as people walking by, toys, and the doorbell.
8. Continue to extend the time your dog is in his place. Don’t feel bad for him, this should be a relaxing time for the dog.

Here is a great video from SolidK9 Dog Training showing the Place Command in Action: