Place beds, especially the elevated varieties, gained traction around 15 years ago and have since become integral to numerous training regimens. Asking your dog to stay on their bed amidst surrounding activity can be immensely beneficial. It prevents them from getting in the way, ensures they maintain distance from unfamiliar people (particularly if they're not overly friendly), and simultaneously fosters impulse control. Moreover, for more energetic dogs that typically find it hard to relax, this training prompts them to pause and settle down upon request!
Considering the aforementioned points, there's much to appreciate about this approach. The behavior is straightforward to instill and most pet owners find it effortless to implement consistently. However, it's worth noting that there might be instances where it's employed excessively in scenarios where the dog is uncertain about appropriate actions. In such cases, it's crucial to engage directly with the dog when you’re able to guide them through the situation and teach suitable behaviors.
For instance, many people use place beds during meal times. This ensures the dog remains distanced from the dining area, preventing any pestering or visible begging. In such situations, it's generally not necessary to alternate between having the dog on the bed and off it to instill proper behavior around meals. As long as owners maintain consistency, most dogs will be content with merely observing dinner proceedings and continued encouragement to disengage from scene isn’t a bad thing.
However, door etiquette, particularly during greetings, requires attention. Numerous dogs get overly excited and run towards the entrance whenever there's a ring or a knock. Front doors are hubs of activity for dogs. These doors serve as gateways to walks, introduce new faces, and usher in intriguing aromas – making them focal points of interest. For some dogs, the door may also be a source of mixed emotions, especially if they're apprehensive about strangers, leading to anxious reactions. In such door-related situations, a place bed can be invaluable. It serves to temper your dog's excitement, allowing them a moment to evaluate their surroundings and granting the owner a window to guide the dog as necessary. Nevertheless, it's crucial to remember that once the dog is off the bed, additional training is also essential. Merely using the bed won't inherently resolve issues like jumping, nipping, anxiety or aggression related issues; proactive measures are still required.