How to Train Your Dog to Go to Its Place

Training your dog to go to its place is useful for settling them down or keeping them out from underfoot. Choose one spot or a different spot in each room to send your dog when you give the "place" command. This command is relatively easy to teach.

Prepare for Training

Ensure your dog knows how to lie down on command before you teach it to go to its place. Spend several training sessions working on "down." Once your dog can reliably lie down on command, you're ready to move on to the place command.

Next, decide where you want your dog to go when you give the place command. A bed or area rug works well. If you want to be able to use the command in any room, use a portable bed or mat that you can easily move from room to room.

You will also need a handful of treats and a clicker if you plan on using clicker training.

Choose a Command

Choose a one-word command, as it tends to work best. Common choices are "place," "bed," or "mat

Lure Your Dog

Begin by standing near the bed or dog blanket that will serve as your dog's place. Give the "place" command, then use a treat to lure the dog onto the spot. Once all four feet are on the mat, praise your dog or click the clicker and provide a treat. Repeat this several times, as most dogs will go to the bed or mat on command after a few short training sessions.

Add the Down

Once your dog consistently places all four feet on the mat or bed, begin instructing them to lie down. Issue the "place" command, and as soon as the dog reaches the mat, give the "down" command.

Your dog may take a few minutes to comply initially, but after several practice sessions, they should automatically lie down on the mat after you give the "place" command. Once this is consistent, only reward them with treats and praise when they lie down following the "place" command.

Increase the Time

Once your dog consistently lies down on the mat after the "place" command, gradually increase the duration they remain there. Achieve this by slowly adding a few seconds before offering the treat upon their response, and incrementally extend this time as progress is observed.

If your dog gets up before receiving the treat, repeat the "place" command and return to the last successful duration. By slowly increasing the time your dog stays in its place, you will soon be able to give the command and have it stay in its place while you go about whatever you were doing.

Move to Other Rooms

To use the "place" command in other rooms, ensure your dog has mastered it in one location first. Move the bed or mat to another room and repeat the training process. Alternatively, select a designated spot in each room for the "place" command without moving the bed or mat.

Some dogs quickly adapt and will immediately go to their bed or mat and lie down when given the command in a new room. Others may need to relearn this behavior in a new environment. If needed, start over by giving the command, luring the dog to the mat, and teaching them to lie down as done previously. Wait for mastery in the new room before introducing another location.

Problems and Proofing Behavior

Most dogs learn this command quickly. After a few training sessions, your dog should be able to find their bed or mat on command.

Inconsistency is a common mistake made by dog owners. For example, dogs often stay in the kitchen while someone's cooking. It can be frustrating or hazardous to have a dog underfoot, but it's easy to overlook and continue with food preparation.

No matter how busy you are, prioritizing this training is essential�it won't take as long as you think. Distractions may occur initially, but focus on the ultimate goal: your dog immediately obeying the "place" command. Investing time now will save much frustration in the future.