The "place" or "mat" command teaches your dog to go to a designated spot and stay there until released. It's one of the most versatile and practical commands — effectively an "off switch" for overexcited behavior at the door, during meals, or when guests arrive.
What You Need
A clearly defined mat — a bath mat, dog bed, or elevated platform works well. Dogs target better on elevated platforms (like a cot or balance pad) because there's a distinct surface to step onto. Get the same mat for all practice.
Step 1: Introduce the Mat
Toss a treat onto the mat. When the dog steps on to eat it, click/treat again while they're on the mat. Do this 20 times until they're eagerly stepping onto the mat. Don't say "place" yet — just build the mat as a treat-delivery location.
Step 2: Send to the Mat
Stand 1 foot from the mat and gesture toward it. When all four paws are on, click/treat. Add the cue "place" as they move toward the mat. Build distance gradually — 2 feet, 4 feet, 6 feet, across the room.
Step 3: Down on the Mat
Once they go to the mat reliably, ask for a down once they arrive. Click/treat for lying down on the mat. The completed "place" behavior is: go to the mat, lie down, stay until released.
Step 4: Duration and Distractions
Build duration in increments: 30 seconds, 1 minute, 5 minutes. Then add distractions while they hold: you leave the room, someone knocks, you bring food nearby. Reward for holding the position — don't just leave them there and hope they stay.
Real-World Application
Practice: send to place when the doorbell rings, during meal prep, when guests are seated. Keep a mat near the front door. This becomes your go-to for managing overstimulation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a dog hold the place command?
Build up gradually. Start at 30 seconds, work toward 5 minutes, then 10–15 minutes for practical household use. The goal is that your dog stays on the mat until you give the release word, regardless of duration.
What's the difference between 'place' and 'stay'?
Stay is a modifier (stay in whatever position you're in). Place is a complete behavior: go to the mat, lie down, and remain until released. Place includes a specific location, which makes it more practical for managing behavior around the house.
My dog won't stay on the mat when I walk away. Help?
You've added too much distance too fast. Return to standing right next to the mat when building duration. Then take one step away, return, treat. Build very gradually — your return is what tells them they succeeded.
Can I use any object as a 'place' spot?
Yes — a specific dog bed, a bath mat, an elevated cot, or even a defined floor area works. Elevated surfaces (like a Klimb board) often produce clearer targeting because stepping up is distinct. Be consistent — use the same object for practice.