Your sofa is gorgeous, cushy and comfortable--but not for the dogs. Some may recommend smelly sprays, shock pads or other unattractive methods to keep the dog from jumping on the sofa, but you don't need to spend money on methods that may not work. You may instead find success with firm and consistent reinforcement--and by getting the dog a little sofa of his own.
Things You'll Need
- Dog bed
- Leash
- Treats
Instructions
Get the dog a bed. Make sure the dog has his own little version of the sofa that is just as comfortable as your sofa, or at least one that can be made to seem that way to the dog. Insure it is large enough for the pooch, properly padded for ultimate comfort and attractive enough to keep in the open. Place it in the room near the sofa.
Introduce the dog to his bed. Lead the dog over to the bed and let him know how great it is. Use excited tones to rub and fluff the bed, as if it's the greatest thing on earth. Encourage the dog to lie down in it by placing treats in the bed and rewarding him with kind words and affection when he snuggles in the bed. Repeat the word "bed" to associate his new lair with the word.
Say "no" to stop the jumping. Firmly say "No" when you see the dog about to jump on the sofa, followed by you pointing at and saying, "bed." If she has already settled on the sofa, hook up her leash, leave it slack, and stand next to her, demanding she get "down." Encourage her with treats, if necessary, until she hops back to the floor.
Lead the dog to his bed. Repeat the word "bed" as you gently lead the dog in that direction. Command him to sit or lay down in his bed. Lavish him with affection once he obeys.