How to Place-Train Your Dog

Here’s how to teach your dog the place command for when you’re busy.

Today I have Bear and Ziggy with me to teach you how to do the “place” command with your dogs. The place command is crucial, especially if you’re working from home and need your dog out of your space and to be quiet while you’re on a video call; it helps them calm down and self-soothe. Then you can invite your dog back over to you when you’re ready to provide affection. 

First, you’ll use leash pressure to guide them to where they should go, such as their bed. You can guide them anywhere, as long as it allows you to do the things you need without them in the way. At 1:00 in the video above, watch me guide Bear to his bed the correct way. As soon as they touch the bed all the way, you reward them--it can be their daily kibble or some affection, whatever your dog likes the most. Then you keep repeating this over and over as non-verbally as possible. 

The place command helps your dogs to calm down and self-soothe.

Next, you want to add in the command. I’ll say “place” as soon as I start moving, then guide Zig to the bed and reward her. Remember to speak first, then guide them. Watch me demonstrate this at 1:50 in the video. Bear was affection motivated, but Ziggy is food motivated, so I have her treats ready. Again, you’ll repeat this over and over. When they’re getting the hang of it, practice the same thing without the leash. 
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In no time your dog should be ready to give you some space when needed. If you have any questions about teaching this command or our dog walking services, reach out via phone or our website. We would love to speak with you.