Introduce 'settle down'

All dogs need to learn how to settle down, whether in their own home, when visiting friends or relatives, on the bus or train or in the vet’s waiting room.

If you have worked through the Bronze Certificate section your dog will already know how to target a mat (way 27). Now extend this training by using the same method to teach him to respond to a cue by settling into a ‘down’ on a small piece of mat or bedding. Gradually extend the time that he is expected to settle and make it more rewarding by giving him something like a stuffed Kong™ to chew on.

Settle anywhere

When he has learned to settle at home, make sure that you also train the behavior in several different locations, using the same piece of mat or bedding to help him make the connection. When he understands what is required attach a verbal cue to the behavior.