Introduction
Understanding the "Place" Command
The “place” command directs a dog to a specific location, such as a mat or bed, and requires the animal to remain there until released. Mastery of this cue relies on three factors: a clear visual marker, a consistent verbal cue, and a reliable release word.
- Choose a distinct surface that contrasts with surrounding flooring; the visual difference signals the target area.
- Pair a short, unique word (e.g., “place”) with a hand signal that points to the marker. Consistency in tone and gesture prevents ambiguity.
- Establish a release cue (e.g., “okay”) that signals permission to move, separating the stay phase from the freedom phase.
Training proceeds by guiding the dog onto the marker, rewarding the moment all four paws contact the surface, then adding the verbal cue. Once the dog complies, introduce a brief pause before the release cue; each successful pause earns a treat or praise. Gradually increase the duration of the stay, maintaining the same cue and reward pattern.
Common errors include using multiple words for the same action, allowing the dog to wander before the release cue, and rewarding partial compliance. Eliminating these mistakes reinforces a precise association between the command, the location, and the expected behavior.
Understanding the command’s structure-visual target, verbal cue, stay interval, release cue-provides the framework needed to achieve a reliable response on the first attempt.
Why Teach "Place"?
Training a dog to go to a specific location and remain there provides measurable control in everyday situations. The “place” cue creates a predictable response that reduces the likelihood of impulsive behavior, especially when doors open, guests arrive, or distractions arise. Consistent use of this command enhances safety by keeping the dog out of hazardous areas such as kitchens, staircases, or crowded rooms.
Benefits of establishing the “place” command include:
- Immediate reduction of unwanted movement during meals, work calls, or visitors.
- Clear boundary for the dog, supporting house‑training and furniture protection.
- Foundation for advanced obedience, such as distance holds and prolonged stays.
- Simplified management in public settings, allowing the dog to stay out of traffic or away from other animals.
From a behavioral perspective, the cue taps into a dog’s natural desire for a comfortable, secure spot. By associating the designated area with positive reinforcement, the dog learns to seek that space voluntarily, decreasing reliance on physical restraints. This mental engagement promotes confidence and reduces anxiety when the animal anticipates a consistent, rewarding outcome.
In training sessions, the “place” command shortens the learning curve for other commands that require the dog to remain stationary. Once the dog reliably occupies the chosen spot, adding duration, distance, or distractions becomes a straightforward progression. The result is a disciplined companion that responds reliably on the first attempt, streamlining daily routines and enhancing the owner‑dog relationship.
Preparation Before Training
Necessary Equipment
When introducing the “place” command, the trainer must have tools that promote clarity and consistency. A designated surface-such as a low‑profile mat, a rug, or a purpose‑made dog bed-provides a clear visual cue and a comfortable spot for the dog to settle. The surface should be stable, easily washable, and sized to accommodate the dog’s full length without crowding.
High‑value rewards are essential for rapid acquisition. Small, soft treats that can be consumed in a single bite keep the dog focused and allow frequent reinforcement without excessive caloric intake. A treat pouch worn on the belt or attached to a leash ensures quick access and prevents interruption of the training flow.
A clicker or a consistent verbal marker (e.g., “yes”) offers an immediate, unmistakable signal that the desired behavior has occurred. The marker must be used at the exact moment the dog makes contact with the designated surface, creating a precise association between action and reward.
A short, adjustable leash provides safety and gentle guidance during the initial attempts. The leash should be long enough to allow the dog to approach the mat freely, yet short enough to prevent wandering. A lightweight harness is preferable to a collar, reducing tension on the neck and allowing smoother direction.
Finally, a quiet environment free from distracting noises or movements helps the dog concentrate on the new command. If training indoors, close doors and turn off televisions or music. In outdoor settings, choose a low‑traffic area and optionally use a portable barrier to limit external stimuli.
Equipment checklist
- Durable mat or dog bed
- Small, high‑value treats (pouch optional)
- Clicker or consistent verbal marker
- Adjustable short leash with lightweight harness
- Quiet, low‑distraction training space
Prepared with these items, the trainer can deliver clear cues and immediate reinforcement, maximizing the likelihood that the dog will understand and obey the “place” command on the first attempt.
Choosing the Right "Place"
As a professional dog trainer, I emphasize that the success of the “place” command hinges on the selection of an appropriate target area. The chosen spot must be clearly defined, consistently accessible, and free from competing stimuli.
Key considerations for the right “place” include:
- Visibility: The location should be within the dog’s line of sight from various entry points, allowing the animal to locate it without confusion.
- Surface type: Choose a mat, rug, or bed with a texture that encourages the dog to settle comfortably but does not become a preferred resting spot outside training sessions.
- Size: The area must accommodate the dog’s full body while leaving enough margin for movement, preventing the animal from feeling cramped.
- Location stability: Place the target in a low‑traffic zone where foot traffic, toys, and food bowls do not interfere with the command.
- Consistency: Use the same spot for every training session to build a strong association between the cue and the location.
Before training begins, inspect the environment for potential distractions such as windows, doors, or loud appliances. Remove or block these elements to maintain focus.
When the environment satisfies the criteria above, the dog can quickly learn to associate the verbal cue with the designated spot, increasing the likelihood of correct performance on the first attempt.
Timing and Environment
Effective training of the “place” command hinges on precise timing and a controlled setting. The moment the dog steps onto the target area, deliver a clear, high‑value reward within one second. Delayed reinforcement weakens the association between the cue and the desired action. Use a marker word such as “yes” or a clicker to bridge the gap between the behavior and the treat, ensuring the signal occurs the instant the paws touch the designated spot.
Select an environment that minimizes competing stimuli. Begin in a quiet room with limited foot traffic, and choose a mat or rug that is clearly distinguishable from surrounding flooring. The location should be consistent for each session; changing the spot confuses the dog and prolongs learning. Keep the training area free of toys, food bowls, and other objects that could divert attention.
Maintain a predictable schedule. Conduct short, frequent sessions-five minutes, three to four times daily-so the dog receives repeated, identical cues and rewards. Consistency in the cue word (“place”) and hand signal reinforces the habit. Gradually introduce mild distractions, such as a family member walking nearby, only after the dog reliably responds in the original setting. Increase difficulty stepwise, never exceeding the dog’s current confidence level.
Key practices for timing and environment:
- Immediate marker (click or “yes”) within 0.5‑1 second of contact.
- High‑value treat delivered instantly after the marker.
- Quiet, uncluttered room for initial training.
- Distinct, comfortable surface that remains unchanged.
- Consistent cue word and hand signal each trial.
- Short, regular sessions to reinforce memory.
- Progressive introduction of mild distractions after mastery.
By adhering strictly to these temporal and spatial guidelines, a dog can learn to go to its designated place on the first attempt, establishing a reliable response that endures in more complex environments.
Step-by-Step Training Guide
1. Introducing the "Place"
Luring Technique
Training a dog to go to a designated spot on the first attempt hinges on the precise use of the luring technique. This method employs a high‑value reward to guide the animal into the target area, creating a clear association between the cue and the desired behavior.
Begin by selecting a distinct location-such as a mat or rug-that will serve as the “place.” Position the treat just out of reach, then move it slowly toward the chosen spot. As the dog follows the treat, the body language signals compliance; once the animal steps onto the mat, immediately mark the action with a crisp “yes” or click, then deliver the reward. Repeating this sequence reinforces the link between the movement and the cue.
Key points for optimal results:
- Use a treat the dog finds irresistible; low‑value food weakens the lure.
- Keep the hand motion smooth and consistent to avoid confusing the animal.
- Deliver the marker and reward the instant all four paws are on the mat.
- Limit each training bout to 5‑7 repetitions to maintain focus and prevent fatigue.
- Gradually reduce the treat’s visibility, transitioning to a verbal cue (“place”) while the dog still moves to the spot.
After several successful lures, introduce the verbal command just before the hand motion. The dog learns to anticipate the cue and respond without needing the treat as a visual guide. Finally, practice in varied environments-different rooms, outdoor surfaces-to generalize the behavior. Consistent application of these steps enables the dog to understand and execute the “place” command reliably on the first try.
Marking and Rewarding
As a professional canine behavior specialist, I focus on two pivotal elements that guarantee a successful first‑time acquisition of the “place” cue: precise marking and consistent rewarding.
Marking establishes the exact moment the dog performs the desired action. Use a clear, distinct signal-such as a clicker or a sharp verbal cue like “yes.” The marker must be emitted the instant the dog’s front paws settle on the designated spot, eyes fixed on the target, and body remains stationary. This instant feedback creates a tight association between the behavior and the signal, eliminating ambiguity.
Rewarding follows the marker and reinforces the behavior. Apply these principles:
- Deliver a high‑value treat (e.g., small pieces of cooked chicken) within one second of the marker.
- Ensure the reward is fully consumed before repeating the exercise to prevent distraction.
- Gradually reduce treat size while maintaining the same timing, eventually substituting with verbal praise or a brief play session.
- Keep the reward schedule dense during initial trials (every correct “place”) and shift to intermittent reinforcement after the dog reliably responds.
Timing is non‑negotiable: any delay beyond one second weakens the connection between the marker and the reward, causing the dog to guess which action earned the payoff. Consistency in both marker sound and reward type builds a robust mental link, allowing the animal to understand that the “place” cue equals “stay on this spot” and will be met with immediate, predictable reinforcement.
By pairing an unmistakable marker with rapid, high‑value rewards, the dog learns the “place” command in a single session, laying a foundation for reliable performance in increasingly complex environments.
2. Adding the Verbal Cue
"Place" Command Association
The trainer’s objective is to create a consistent link between the spoken cue “place” and a predetermined location, enabling the dog to move to that spot on the first utterance.
Begin with a clearly defined area that is free of distractions. Mark the spot with a mat, rug, or taped rectangle; the visual cue supports the verbal command. Introduce the cue in short, calm tones while standing beside the target. Use a high‑value treat to lure the dog onto the marked area, then immediately release the treat and praise the precise placement. Repeat the sequence several times, ensuring the dog receives the reward only after stepping onto the target.
Key elements to reinforce the association:
- Timing: Deliver the reward within one second of the dog’s arrival on the spot.
- Consistency: Use the identical word “place” and the same tone for every trial.
- Marker: Employ a clicker or a brief verbal marker (“yes”) to signal the exact moment of correct positioning.
- Duration: Gradually increase the time the dog must remain on the spot before the reward is given, starting with one second and extending to five seconds.
- Generalization: Practice in varied environments-different rooms, outdoor surfaces-while keeping the cue and marker unchanged.
If the dog hesitates, reduce the distance between the handler and the target, then slowly enlarge it as confidence grows. Avoid rewarding partial compliance; only full contact with the marked area triggers the reinforcement. Over successive sessions, the dog learns to associate the cue “place” with the specific location, responding reliably on the initial command.
Practicing Short Stays
When introducing the “place” command, short stays serve as the foundational building block. A short stay is a brief, controlled pause in the designated spot, reinforcing the dog’s association with the location and the expectation of remaining there.
Begin each session by directing the dog to the chosen place-mat, rug, or bed-using a clear cue such as “place.” Once the dog steps onto the surface, wait one to two seconds before releasing the pause with a release word like “okay.” Reward immediately with a high‑value treat and a brief verbal affirmation. This concise cycle teaches the dog that staying, even for a moment, results in a positive outcome.
Repeat the cycle several times, gradually extending the pause by one‑second increments. Maintain consistency in the cue, release word, and reward type. If the dog moves before the release, reset the exercise without reprimand: guide the dog back, re‑establish the cue, and start the timer anew. This approach prevents confusion and preserves the dog’s willingness to comply.
Key points for effective short‑stay practice:
- Use a distinct cue for the location and a separate release word.
- Keep initial stays brief (1-2 seconds) to ensure success on the first attempt.
- Reward instantly after the release; delay erodes the connection.
- Increment pause length only after the dog reliably meets the current duration.
- Conduct multiple short sessions daily rather than one prolonged session.
By mastering short stays, the dog learns to remain calmly on command, creating a reliable platform for longer “place” holds and more complex obedience tasks.
3. Increasing Duration and Distance
Gradually Extending Stay Time
Teaching a dog the “place” command succeeds when the animal learns to remain in the designated spot for increasingly longer periods. Begin with a brief stay of one to two seconds. Mark the start of the interval with a consistent cue such as “stay” and end it with a clear release word like “ok.” Reward immediately after the release to reinforce the connection between the cue, the pause, and the freedom.
Once the dog reliably holds the short stay, extend the duration in small increments-add one second after every successful trial. Keep the increments consistent; erratic jumps can confuse the animal and break the learning chain. If the dog breaks the stay, reset to the last successful length before progressing again.
Incorporate variability to prevent anticipation of the release timing:
- Randomly vary the length of each stay within the current mastery range.
- Introduce mild distractions (e.g., a person walking by) while the dog is in place to test focus.
- Use a timer or count silently to avoid giving visual cues.
Maintain a high reward value during the extension phase. As the stay length grows, increase the reward magnitude or add a secondary treat to sustain motivation. Record each session’s longest successful stay to track progress and determine when to raise the next increment.
Gradual extension builds the dog’s impulse control, solidifies the “place” association, and prepares the animal for the ultimate goal: holding the position reliably until a specific release cue is given, even under real‑world distractions.
Moving Further Away
Teaching a dog to stay on a designated spot requires a controlled increase in distance. Begin with the dog already positioned on the target area while you remain within arm’s length. Use a clear verbal cue such as “place” and a consistent hand signal. Reward immediately after the dog settles, confirming the behavior.
When the dog reliably holds the position at close range, start to retreat incrementally. Each step back should be no more than a few feet. Pause, issue the cue, and wait for the dog to maintain the spot before offering the reward. If the dog breaks contact, return to the previous distance, reinforce the cue, and repeat until stability is achieved.
Key points for expanding distance:
- Move only a short distance at a time; excessive gaps disrupt the association between cue and location.
- Maintain eye contact or a visual marker to keep the dog aware of your presence.
- Use high‑value treats or praise to strengthen the response as the task becomes more challenging.
- Keep training sessions brief (5‑10 minutes) to prevent fatigue and loss of focus.
After the dog consistently holds the place from several meters away, introduce mild distractions such as walking past the area or opening a door. The cue should still elicit an immediate stay. Gradually increase both distance and distraction level until the dog responds reliably on the first attempt, regardless of your position in the room.
4. Introducing Distractions
Low-Level Distractions
When introducing the “place” command, even subtle stimuli can derail a dog’s focus. Low‑level distractions-background noises, distant movement, faint scents, or mild visual activity-are not overt enough to prompt a clear refusal, yet they compete for attention during the initial training session.
Identify the baseline environment first. Choose a quiet room, turn off televisions, close windows, and remove toys that might catch the dog’s eye. Conduct a brief trial to confirm the dog remains attentive when the command is given without any added stimuli.
Gradually re‑introduce minor disturbances while maintaining the command:
- Play a low‑volume radio track or white‑noise machine in the background.
- Open a door a few inches to allow a neighbor’s footsteps to be audible.
- Place a stationary object (e.g., a folded towel) a few feet from the designated “place” area.
Observe the dog’s response. If the dog hesitates or leaves the spot, pause, eliminate the new variable, and repeat the command until compliance is restored. Only then add the next element. This incremental exposure builds tolerance without overwhelming the animal.
Timing of reinforcement matters. Deliver the treat the moment the dog settles on the mat, even if a distraction is present. Consistent, immediate rewards teach the dog that the “place” cue outweighs peripheral inputs.
Maintain a short training window-no longer than five minutes per session-to prevent fatigue, which amplifies sensitivity to low‑level distractions. End each session with a clear success: the dog remains on the mat for at least three seconds despite the background stimulus.
By systematically layering minor distractions and pairing them with prompt reinforcement, the dog learns to prioritize the “place” command over ambient cues, increasing the likelihood of successful execution on the first attempt.
Higher-Level Distractions
Teaching a dog the “place” command to succeed on the first attempt requires precise control of the training environment. When the animal is already accustomed to basic cues, higher‑level distractions become the primary obstacle. Managing these stimuli ensures the cue remains clear and the dog can focus on the target location.
Begin with a controlled setting: a quiet room, no moving objects, and minimal human traffic. Use a distinct marker-such as a mat or bed-to define the “place.” Introduce the cue while the dog is calm, reward immediately with a high‑value treat, and release after a brief hold. Once the dog reliably responds in this environment, gradually introduce distractions in a systematic manner.
- Step 1: Incremental noise - play a low‑volume recording of street sounds while repeating the cue. Reward only if the dog remains on the marker. Increase volume only after consistent success.
- Step 2: Visual movement - have a person walk slowly past the training area. Maintain the cue and treat the dog for staying. Accelerate the walking pace once stability is proven.
- Step 3: Multiple people - add a second handler who offers occasional praise or commands unrelated to “place.” The primary trainer continues the cue; the dog must ignore the secondary stimuli.
- Step 4: Outdoor environment - select a fenced yard with moderate foot traffic. Place the marker on grass, issue the command, and reward for compliance despite distant activity.
- Step 5: High‑energy play - introduce a favorite toy being tossed nearby. The dog must hold the “place” position while the toy moves. Reward only when the dog does not break focus.
Throughout each stage, keep the cue brief, the marker consistent, and the reward immediate. If the dog falters, reduce the distraction level and repeat until success is achieved before progressing. Consistency in timing and clear expectations prevent confusion and reinforce the association between the command and the designated spot.
Final verification involves a brief random test: issue the “place” cue while a sudden, unrelated event occurs (doorbell, passing car). A correct response indicates the dog has mastered the command despite higher‑level distractions, confirming readiness for real‑world application.
5. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Dog Leaves "Place"
When a dog exits the designated spot after the “place” cue, the trainer must intervene immediately to preserve the integrity of the command. The first response should be a clear, calm recall that re‑establishes the boundary without rewarding the departure.
- Pause the session the moment the dog moves off the mat.
- Use a short, firm “stay” or “wait” command while positioning yourself at the edge of the place.
- Guide the dog back with a gentle lead or hand signal, then re‑issue the “place” cue.
- Release the command only after the dog settles and maintains position for at least two seconds.
- Incrementally increase the hold time and distance, recording each successful interval.
If the dog repeatedly leaves, identify the underlying trigger. Common factors include excessive excitement, insufficient scent association, or an unclear boundary. Strengthen the association by placing a familiar blanket or a piece of the owner’s clothing on the mat, and reinforce the cue with a high‑value treat only when the dog remains fully within the perimeter.
Consistent timing of rewards is crucial. Deliver praise and food the instant the dog’s weight shifts back onto the mat, then withdraw the treat after a brief pause to prevent dependence on continuous reinforcement. Over time, the dog learns that remaining on the spot yields the only positive outcome, reducing the likelihood of voluntary departures.
Finally, evaluate the environment for distractions. Remove toys, food bowls, or other stimuli that may entice the dog away. Conduct practice sessions in progressively busier settings only after the dog reliably stays on the mat in a quiet room. This systematic approach ensures the “place” command holds firm, even when the dog initially attempts to leave.
Dog Doesn't Understand
When a dog fails to grasp the “place” cue, the most common cause is a mismatch between the signal and the animal’s perception of the task. The command must convey a clear, singular expectation: go to a designated spot and remain there until released.
First, verify that the target location is consistently marked. Use a distinct mat or rug that differs in texture and color from surrounding surfaces. Place the mat on a flat area free of distractions. If the dog has never encountered that specific surface, it will not associate the cue with a concrete location.
Second, ensure the verbal cue is unambiguous. A single word spoken in a calm, steady tone works best. Avoid variations in pitch or length that could create confusion. Pair the word with a hand signal that points directly at the mat; the visual cue reinforces the auditory one.
Third, consider the dog’s prior training history. If the animal has learned “stay” or “down” in a different context, it may interpret “place” as an extension of those commands rather than a distinct request. Separate the behaviors by practicing “place” in short, isolated sessions where only the mat and the cue are present.
Practical steps to resolve misunderstanding:
- Identify the cue gap: Observe whether the dog moves toward the mat, sits, or simply looks at the handler. Each response indicates a different level of comprehension.
- Simplify the task: Start with a very short distance between the handler and the mat. Reward the dog for merely stepping onto the mat, then gradually increase the distance.
- Reinforce with high‑value rewards: Use treats the dog finds irresistible, delivered the moment the paws touch the mat. Immediate reinforcement cements the association.
- Add a release word: After the dog remains on the mat for a few seconds, say a distinct release cue (“free,” “ok”) and reward. This teaches the dog that staying is temporary and under control.
- Limit distractions: Conduct early trials in a quiet room. Introduce noises, other pets, or people only after the dog reliably responds in a calm environment.
If the dog continues to ignore the cue, evaluate health factors such as vision or hearing impairments. A veterinary check can rule out sensory deficits that impede learning.
By aligning the physical marker, verbal command, and reward structure, the misunderstanding dissolves, allowing the dog to respond to “place” on the first attempt.
Advanced Tips and Maintenance
Proofing the Command
Effective proofing transforms a newly learned “place” cue into a reliable behavior across distractions, environments, and durations. The process begins with a controlled rehearsal: the dog is directed to the designated spot, rewarded, and released after a brief stay. Immediately after, introduce a mild distraction-such as a low‑volume toy or a person walking nearby-while maintaining the cue. The reward is only given if the dog remains on the mat, reinforcing the requirement to ignore the stimulus.
Gradually increase the difficulty by varying three parameters:
- Distance: Move farther from the mat before issuing the cue, then return to release the dog.
- Duration: Extend the hold time in increments of five seconds, rewarding only at the final moment.
- Distraction intensity: Progress from quiet ambient noise to louder sounds, other dogs, or food temptations placed outside the “place” area.
Each increment should be mastered before adding the next variable. If the dog breaks the command, reset to the last successful level and repeat until consistency is achieved. Consistency is measured by the dog’s ability to stay on cue for at least three consecutive trials under the new condition.
Proofing also requires environmental generalization. Practice the command in multiple locations-indoors, backyard, a quiet park-using the same verbal cue and hand signal. The mat or marker should be visually distinct but not reliant on a specific texture; a portable mat works well for field work. When the dog responds correctly in each setting, the behavior is considered fully generalized.
Finally, incorporate random reinforcement schedules. After the dog demonstrates reliable performance, reward intermittently-every third or fourth successful stay-while still delivering occasional high‑value treats. This schedule strengthens the behavior without creating dependence on constant food rewards and prepares the dog for real‑world applications where immediate reinforcement may be unavailable.
Integrating into Daily Routine
Training a dog to stay on a designated spot can become a seamless part of everyday life when the practice is woven into regular activities. Consistency, timing, and context are the three pillars that transform a single lesson into a habit the animal follows without hesitation.
Begin each morning by placing the dog’s mat or rug in a high‑traffic area such as the kitchen doorway. As you enter the room, give a clear cue-“place”-and guide the dog onto the mat with a gentle hand signal. Release the cue with a calm “okay” once the dog remains stationary for a few seconds. Reinforce the behavior immediately with a brief treat or verbal praise. Repeating this sequence at the same hour each day creates a predictable pattern that the dog learns to anticipate.
Incorporate the command during routine transitions:
- Before feeding: Direct the dog to “place” while you prepare the bowl; release after the dog stays calm for 5-10 seconds.
- During leash attachment: Ask for “place” while you retrieve the collar and leash, then reward once the dog waits without moving.
- While cleaning: Use the cue while you sweep or vacuum, allowing the dog to remain on the mat until you signal release.
Adjust the duration of the hold gradually. Start with two seconds, then increase by one‑second increments each week. Maintain the same verbal cue and hand signal to avoid confusion. If the dog breaks the position, pause, return to the previous successful duration, and resume training without reprimand.
Integrating the command into moments that already require the dog’s attention reduces the need for separate training sessions. The dog learns that “place” is not an isolated trick but a functional response linked to everyday events, leading to reliable performance on the first attempt.
Maintaining Consistency
Consistency is the cornerstone of successful first‑try training for the “place” command. A dog learns by detecting patterns; any deviation creates confusion and delays acquisition.
Use an identical cue word each session. Record the exact pronunciation and avoid synonyms or variations. Pair the cue with a single visual marker-such as a rug or mat-and keep the marker in the same spot. Relocating the mat introduces an unnecessary variable that the animal must reinterpret.
Maintain uniform timing for each step. Begin the cue, immediately guide the dog onto the marker, and reward the moment the paws settle. Delay of even a second can cause the dog to associate the reward with a different behavior.
Apply the same reward type and magnitude. Whether using treats, praise, or a clicker, deliver it consistently after the correct response. Mixing treat sizes or switching between vocal praise and clicker signals dilutes the association between the command and the desired action.
Structure each training block identically. Limit sessions to five to ten minutes, conduct them at the same time of day, and repeat the sequence of cue‑guide‑reward without extraneous commands. Short, regular repetitions reinforce the pattern more effectively than occasional, lengthy attempts.
Document the routine. Write down the cue word, marker location, reward schedule, and session length. Review the notes before each practice to ensure no element has unintentionally changed.
By eliminating variability in language, environment, timing, and reinforcement, the dog receives a clear, repeatable message. This precision dramatically increases the likelihood that the “place” command will be mastered on the first attempt.