It wasn't until I started practicing this command MORE with training dogs that I realized how magical it truly is. If you don't know about it yet, The Place Command will change your life.
The place command should be though of as a time to settle, or the "off switch." If you have a dog, I'm going to assume that you've asked, "when will my dog ever relax?" Or you've only been able to experience the calmer side of your dog after a multiple hours-long walk.
They have to be exhausted to chill. And I get it! So, I'm not telling you to not walk your dog, but I’m saying that it's not the only way to get your dog to relax.
What is the place command? It is a designated spot that you tell your dog to get on and they don't get off until you tell them to. It's a spot where they practice doing nothing. That's right - NOTHING. How do we get them to do this?
It's simple(ish): repeat a daily routine and be consistent.
I like to call it the Place Practice. Like you would refer to your yoga practice, or anything else that literally needs practice. It's no different for this command.
Many owners turn to google to search for a quick fix when their dog starts acting out - but that's not what this is. Not a quick fix, but TOTALLY worth adding it to your daily routine. I'm not sure how I ever lived with dogs before this command?? Like, how?
Who is this command for anyways? Any dog who has a hard time relaxing. And for all the owners who need a break from their dog being on all the time.
A note about age: if your dog is five months or younger, I recommend using this command for short periods of time as they build up their focus.
When should you do it? Any time that you works for you. Maybe it's during your morning coffee or in the afternoon when you fold some laundry. Better yet, do it after some kind of exercise. A walk, fetch in the backyard or zoomies around the pool. Following up anything active with place is a GREAT combo to fulfill both your dog's physical and mental needs.
And now you know all about the most magical command there ever was! Don't waste your time or shake or play dead … place command is the new party trick. Side effects may include a calmer dog and happier owner. Just sayin’.
-Kristina Reed
Dog Trainer

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