Keep dogs off furniture

Wednesday May 27th, 2009

Question:

How do I train my dog to stay off the couch and bed?

Answer:

The best advice is to keep your dog from getting up there in the first place!

With a puppy, that's fairly easy. Generally, they're not big enough to climb up on their own. Start off on the right foot by crating her at night and eventually transition her to a doggie bed in your bedroom.

With an adult dog, I recommend attaching a leash to her collar when you are home and can supervise her activities (be sure to take the leash off when you're not home or at night when you and your dog go to sleep). Simply put your foot on the leash while you are reading or watching television, and give her a stuffed Kong or favorite dog toy to occupy her time.

If your dog tries to jump up on the couch, gently pull the leash down and say, "Off!" Don't forget to redirect her to an appropriate behavior on the floor (like playing with a toy). At night, the crating technique used with the puppy will also work well with the adolescent or adult dog. Remember, consistency and repetition breed habit--you will be amazed how quickly they learn.

Jim Burwell is one of Houston’s most well-known dog trainers, whose at-home dog training process, The Burwell Method, is the result of 20 years of experience.

Tags Dog Behavior, Dog Training

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That's great...but what about when you are not around? Our dog has no interest in our new italian leather couch...unless we are not home. Then it's fair game, til she hears the door open and she jumps down to her dog bed and "pretends" that she's been in the right spot all along. Infuriating. She knows she's in trouble. She slinks to her bed or to her crate. We ignore her there for a while, then show her to appropriate places to curl up. Still happens 3-4 times a week. What to do???

about 3 years ago by Anonymous

I need some help. I rescued a Chihuahua and is potty trained. But now I am finding that the Chihuahua does not want to go outside and does her duty in the basement. Now my older dog is also trained and tinkles all over too. Please advise. I don't want my basement smelling like urine. Would appreciate advice.

over 3 years ago by Anonymous

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