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      Placework Duration

      This trick will allow your dog to remain peaceful while you have visitors, or eating a meal or any situation where you want your dog to be calm

      Placework duration

      Placework Duration

      Introduction

      Placework is a training behavior that teaches your dog to stay in a specific spot, such as a mat or bed. It is a valuable skill for dogs to learn, as it can help them to stay calm and focused in a variety of situations.

      One of the most important aspects of placework is duration. This refers to how long your dog can stay in place without getting up. Increasing your dog's placework duration will help them to be more reliable in a variety of situations, such as when you have visitors, are eating a meal, or are trying to work.

      Common Misconceptions

      Some common misconceptions about placework duration include:

      • You need to start with a long duration. This is not the case. It is better to start with short durations and gradually increase them over time.
      • You need to use force or punishment to get your dog to stay in place. This is not necessary. Positive reinforcement is the most effective way to train placework.
      • Your dog will never be able to stay in place for a long time. This is not true. With patience and consistency, most dogs can learn to stay in place for extended periods of time.

      Steps to Address

      Teaching Phase

      1. Cue your dog to go to his cot and lie down.
      2. Using a leash, attach your dog to a fixed object. Avoid light objects that can be pulled away.
      3. Take a few steps away from your dog once the leash is tied to a fixed item, then quickly return and treat for keeping put.
      4. Repeat the previous steps until your dog is successfully holding a down-stay on the cot. If he gets up, quickly use the leash to help direct him back to the cot. Do not touch your dog as this will reward him for unwanted behavior.
      5. Repeat the previous steps, moving further away from the cot each time. When your dog maintains a down-stay position on the cot, mark and treat him.

      Reinforcing Phase

      1. Once your dog is consistently able to hold a down-stay on the cot, you can start to reinforce the behavior from a distance.
      2. Begin to exit the room and then return to reward your dog for remaining on the cot.
      3. Gradually increase the duration and distance to make your dog used to staying on the cot for extended periods of time.

      Proofing Phase

      1. Once your dog is able to stay in place in a quiet room, you can start to introduce distractions.
      2. Start by practicing placework duration in a room with low-level distractions, such as the TV or a radio playing.
      3. Gradually increase the level of distractions over time.

      Maintenance Phase

      1. Once your dog is able to stay in place in a variety of situations, you can start to maintain the behavior.
      2. Consistently practice placework duration in every obedience session.
      3. Gradually reduce the amount of treats you give your dog, but continue to mark and praise the behavior.
      4. Apply corrections if the dog does not respond appropriately after one command.

      Case Studies

      Here are some case studies of dogs that have learned placework duration:

      • Buster was a 1-year-old Labrador Retriever who was very excited and had a hard time staying calm. His owner started by teaching him placework for 10 seconds. Every time Buster stayed in place, he was rewarded with a treat. Over time, Buster was able to stay in place for longer and longer periods of time.
      • Luna was a 6-month-old Golden Retriever who was very distracted by other dogs. Her owner started by teaching her placework in a quiet room with no distractions. Once Luna was able to stay in place in the quiet room, her owner gradually introduced more distractions. With patience and consistency, Luna was able to learn to stay in place even when there were other dogs around.

      Pet Parent Coaching Tips

      Here are some pet parent coaching tips for teaching placework duration:

      • Choose a quiet place to start training.
      • Use a clear and consistent cue, such as "place."
      • Reward your dog for staying in place.
      • Be patient and consistent.
      • Do not force or punish your dog.

      Conclusion

      Placework duration is an important skill for dogs to learn. It can help them to stay calm and focused in a variety of situations. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can teach your dog to stay in place for longer and longer periods of time.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Q: How often should I practice placework duration?
        A: You should practice placework duration every day. Start with short sessions and gradually increase the duration over time.
      • Q: What should I do if my dog gets up before the duration is over?
        A: Do not punish your dog. Simply redirect them back to their place and start the session again.
      • Q: What should I do if my dog is distracted?
        A: Remove the distractions or move to a quieter place.
      • Q: How long will it take my dog to learn placework duration?
        A: It will vary depending on the individual dog. Some dogs may learn it quickly, while others may take more time. Be patient and consistent, and your dog will eventually learn.