The Place command (go to your bed/mat and stay there) is a game-changer for daily life. Dinner guests? Dog is on their Place. Doorbell rings? Place. Cooking in the kitchen? Place. It replaces a hundred "no" corrections with one proactive command.
Teaching Place
- Choose a specific bed, mat, or towel. This is now "Place."
- Toss a treat onto the mat. When your dog steps on: "Yes!" + more treats on the mat.
- Add the cue: say "Place" as they step toward the mat.
- Once they understand going to the mat, add duration: reward them for staying on it. Start with 5 seconds.
- Gradually build to several minutes. Always release with "Okay!" or "Free!"
- Increase distance: send them to Place from across the room.
Real-World Use
- Doorbell rings: "Place!" → dog goes to mat → stays until released after guest is settled
- Mealtimes: "Place!" while you eat → release after dinner with a treat
- Travel: Bring the mat to restaurants, hotels, friends' houses. Place goes with you.
The portable Place:
Use a small towel or travel mat that's easy to roll up. Take it everywhere. Your dog learns that wherever that mat goes, the rules are the same. This gives them structure in any environment.