Training your dog to settle on their mat/bed is incredibly useful for various situations, whether you're working at your desk, cooking in the kitchen, or entertaining guests. This skill helps keep your dog out from underfoot and gives them a designated spot to relax. With patience and consistency, your dog will learn to go to their mat/bed on command, making life a bit easier for both of you.
How to Train It:
With a treat in your hand, tell your dog, "Go to your mat/bed" in a cheerful tone of voice and point to their mat/bed.
Pause a second or two (one-one thousand, two-one thousand), then lure your dog onto their mat/bed by putting the treat up to their nose and slowly moving it over the mat/bed. If you move your hand too quickly or too far away from their mouth they may give up and lose interest.
As soon as your dog has four paws on the mat/bed, treat.
Tell your dog, "Down." Give the hand signal or lure if your dog needs help. When they lie down, treat them. Continue to treat to keep your dog on the mat/bed. After a few seconds, tell your dog, "Okay," and allow them to get up.
Repeat steps 1-4, gradually increasing the amount of time you ask them to stay on the mat/bed.
What This is Great For:
Working from home
Watching TV
Cooking in the kitchen
When guests are visiting
Anytime you need to get your dog out from underfoot
During family meals
While you're cleaning the house
When you need to answer the door
When to Practice:
Practice when you can pay attention. For example, when you are answering easy emails, not when concentrating on a report due tomorrow. Or when preparing a sandwich, not trying a gourmet recipe for the first time. And TV commercials are a better practice time than engrossing movies.
Training Tip:
As you increase the time your dog spends on his mat, throw in some shorter intervals to keep him motivated.
As your dog gets better and better, space out the treats he gets for staying on his mat. Eventually he will stay for no treats at all, but to keep the behaviour strong, thank him occasionally for a job well done.
Troubleshooting:
If your dog gets up before you release him, tell him, "Ah-ah" and immediately direct him back onto his mat and into a down. Don't treat him, but make the duration of this down short, so you can release him and repeat the exercise right away and reward for a successful result.
Training your dog to go to their mat/bed is a valuable skill that enhances both your and your dog's daily life. It provides a safe and comfortable place for your dog to relax while keeping them out from underfoot during busy times. With consistent practice and positive reinforcement, you'll soon have a well-behaved companion who knows exactly where to go when you need a little extra space. Embrace this training, and enjoy the added harmony and convenience it brings to your home.
If you need more help with home training, we at Doggie Diplomas offer home-based training sessions tailored to your needs.
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