Settle in Place
The Place or Settle command is used to train your dog to go to his place and settle until released. This command is not a punishment, but rather a means to let your dog relax in their comfortable place (i.e. a dog bed, mat, kennel, etc.). Place is a cue to your dog that it is time to “chill out”.
Place can be used in a variety of situations including when you are having dinner and want your dog out from under the table, when company comes over, or when your dog needs a time out from over stimulation.
Process
- Start by placing a target area on the floor. The target area can be a bed, old T-shirt, bath mat, or towel.
- Stand with your dog on leash approximately three feet away from the target area. Issue the command Place and escort your dog to the target area. Once your dog is on target area give verbal praise and issue the Down command as you reward with a treat.
- Praise and release (remember to use your Release Word).
- Repeat steps 2 and 3, gradually extending the amount of time your dog is lying down on the target area and fading the Down command.
- Once your dog understands the Place command when you are close to the target area, begin to issue the command from a slightly greater distance (4’, then 5’, then 6’, etc.). Eventually, you should be able to issue the command from 15 feet away from the target area.
Suggested Command Words:
| Place | Settle | Go To Bed |
Tips
- Avoid using the command Stay. The Place command is a casual command that means “go to where you are comfortable and settle until released”. Whereas the Stay command is a more formal command that means stay in a position (i.e. sit, down, or stand).
- Using an old T-shirt as a target area can be very handy because it can be easily transported when you are out and about.
- Remember to keep training sessions short (approximately 5 to 10 minutes).