How to Teach "Place" or Go to Your Bed

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

A well-taught place cue is among the most useful behaviors in a household. It gives a boisterous dog something calm to do at mealtimes, when visitors arrive and whenever you need some peace.

Why teach place

Instead of telling a dog what not to do, place tells them exactly what to do. It prevents begging, door-rushing and underfoot hovering. See how to stop a dog begging at the table.

Choose the mat

Pick a mat or bed that is distinct and portable, such as a small raised bed or a non-slip mat. Keeping it unique to this exercise makes it easy for your dog to recognize. You can use it for travel and visits later.

Step 1: Reward interest in the mat

Put the mat on the floor. Mark and reward any look, sniff or step toward it. Toss treats on it so your dog learns to step on.

Step 2: Reward all four feet

Wait for your dog to step on the mat with all four feet, mark and reward in the middle of the mat. Repeat until your dog steps on eagerly.

Step 3: Add a sit or down

Ask for a sit or lie down on the mat. See how to teach a dog to lie down. Reward in position, and keep rewards coming.

Step 4: Add the cue

When your dog heads to the mat readily, say "place" as they move. Eventually the word will predict the behavior.

Step 5: Add duration

Reward at gradually longer intervals. Use a release word like "okay." See how to teach a dog to stay.

Step 6: Add distance

Stand a step away and send your dog to the mat. Gradually increase distance, until your dog can go from across the room.

Step 7: Add distractions

Practice with people moving, doorbells and food preparation. Increase difficulty gradually. See how to proof your dog's training around distractions.

Everyday uses

• Mealtimes: place under the table. See how to stop a dog begging at the table
• Visitors: place while guests arrive. See how to teach a dog to greet guests politely
• Cafes and travel: take the mat with you. See how to teach a dog to settle in cafes
• Furniture: an alternative to the sofa. See how to teach off

Troubleshooting

• Your dog leaves the mat. You asked for too much too soon. Reward more often and reduce duration.
• Your dog will not lie down. Reward sitting, and build to a down later.
• Your dog barks at the mat. Keep sessions short and calm, and reward quiet.
• Your dog is too excited. Exercise first, and keep rewards calm.

Do not use it as punishment

If the mat becomes associated with being sent away, your dog will not want to go. Keep it happy.

A sample practice plan

• Day 1 to 2: Reward stepping on the mat.
• Day 3 to 4: Add a down.
• Day 5 to 7: Add the cue and five to ten seconds of duration.
• Week 2: Add distance and distractions.

Raised beds versus mats

A raised bed has clear edges, which helps dogs understand where place is, and keeps them off cold floors. A flat mat is lighter and easier to travel with. Choose one that suits your dog's size and the places you will use it, and wash it regularly so it stays pleasant.

Visitors and doorbells

Build up gradually. First practise with a family member knocking, then ringing the bell, then opening the door, rewarding your dog for staying on place. Use a long-lasting chew on the mat to keep your dog busy, and release when the greeting is calm.

The takeaway

Make the mat a great place, add duration and distance gradually and use it in everyday life.