Many puppies and dogs like sitting on furniture, since it's comfy and that's where the people sit. There are several benefits to keeping them off furniture, however. Some people in the family, along with guests to the house, may not appreciate dog hair on the furniture, which can then get on their clothing. Certain breeds of dogs have a natural odor which can be transferred to fabric, and dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors may have one as well. Additionally, dogs who are allowed to sit on furniture at home are going to try doing it at other people's homes also. Teaching a dog not to go on furniture can take a bit of time, but the process is similar to teaching the dog to chew only on appropriate items.
Things You'll Need
- Comfortable dog beds
- Dog treats
- Leash
- Plastic floor runners
Instructions
Make sure everyone in the household agrees on the rule and doesn't occasionally get lax about it. If there's any inconsistency, the dog will never stop getting on your couches and chairs.
Provide a comfortable dog bed or two, located in rooms where the people hang out. This provides a pleasing alternative for your dog.
Choose a word for the command you will use to teach the dog not to go on furniture. "Off" or "down" are good command words.
Use the command word whenever your dog starts to get on furniture, or if you enter a room and find the dog already sitting on the couch or a chair. Say it firmly and a bit louder than normal conversation. Then lure the dog off the furniture and over to the dog bed with a treat. Praise your dog after it climbs down and also when it reaches the dog bed.
Attach a leash to your dog's collar, if the dog is being stubborn. You can then gently tug on the leash as a further encouragement to the dog to get off the furniture. It is important to be gentle and not lose your temper, or yank on the leash, because if you're already dealing with a stubborn dog, it will probably resist you. The combination of a leash and a treat should always work.
Keep an eye on your dog as much as possible, because the more often you can catch the dog before it actually gets on furniture, the better your success will be. For this reason, it's a good idea during the training period to gate off or close doors to rooms with dog-tempting furniture when you're not home. If this isn't feasible, turn the cushions on the couch or chairs on end, or place plastic carpet runners upside down on the furniture so the plastic points are pointed up.