How to Teach Your Dog the “Place” Command

At Happy Pack Dog Care, we believe every dog should learn the “Place” command. It’s an incredibly useful skill that helps your dog develop impulse control, focus, and calmness—even in the most distracting environments.

So, what is the “Place” command?

It’s similar to the “Stay” command, but with a twist: your dog must remain on a designated surface, like an elevated platform or dog bed, until released. This command is especially valuable for controlling excitement, preventing jumping, and reinforcing good behavior in real-life situations.

Ready to get started? Here’s how!

What You’ll Need

✅ A designated “Place” (elevated cot, dog bed, or platform)

✅ Leash (for guidance)

✅ Treats (to reward success)

✅ Patience & consistency (the key to great training!)

Step 1: Introduce the “Place”

Start by leading your dog toward the Place using a leash. If they hesitate, activate their nose! Toss a treat onto the bed or lure them with food. Once your dog steps onto the surface, immediately praise and reward them.

Next, release them with a clear cue, such as “Okay!” or “Free!” This teaches them that “Place” has a beginning and an end.

🔁 Repeat this step until they confidently go to the Place on their own.

Step 2: Add the Cue “Place”

Once your dog reliably steps onto the bed, introduce the verbal cue.

• Say “Place” as they step onto the surface.
• Reward them as soon as they’re fully on it.
• Release them with “Okay!” and repeat.

With enough repetition, your dog will begin to associate the word “Place” with getting onto the platform.

Step 3: Build Duration (Stay Longer!)

Now, we work on staying in Place:

1️⃣ Ask your dog to Place.

2️⃣ Start with just one second, then say “Okay!” and release.

3️⃣ Gradually increase duration: 3 seconds, 5 seconds, 10 seconds…

4️⃣ If they stay longer, reward more! (Toss extra treats while they hold their position.)

🔄 Pro Tip: If they step off before being released, calmly guide them back and reward for staying.

Step 4: Introduce Distractions & Distance

Once your dog is holding their Place for longer, it’s time to level up!

We use the 3 D’s of Training:

📏 Duration – Increase how long they stay.

🔊 Distractions – Add movement, sounds, or new people.

📍 Distance – Step farther away while they hold Place.

Start small:

• Walk a step away, return, and reward.
• Clap, jump, or drop a toy—reward if they stay!
• Work in new environments to proof the behavior.

💡 Remember: If your dog struggles, take a step back and reinforce success.

Step 5: Going to Place from a Distance

Now, challenge your pup to Place from farther away!

➡️ Stand a few feet away and say “Place” while pointing at the surface.

➡️ If they hesitate, wait 5 seconds before guiding them over.

➡️ Reward when they succeed and repeat!

The goal? A dog that automatically runs to Place when told—no leash or luring needed!

Final Tips for Success

✅ Keep sessions short and positive—end before frustration sets in.

✅ If your dog struggles, backtrack and build confidence.

✅ Practice daily in different areas (living room, yard, park).

✅ Always reward and release—this keeps training fun!

With patience, positivity, and consistency, your dog will master Place in no time. Happy training!

🐶✨ Need help with training? Happy Pack Dog Care is here for you! Contact us for professional dog training and guidance.