Training a “Settle” on a Mat: A Super Fun Way to Teach Your Puppy to Relax!
Imagine your puppy, full of beans, running around like a tiny furry rocket ship! While all that energy is adorable, sometimes you need your little buddy to take a break and just, well, settle down. That’s where “mat training” comes in! It’s like teaching your puppy to have their very own special calm-down spot. This isn’t just a trick; it’s a superpower that helps your puppy learn to relax, even when exciting things are happening around them.
At Puppy Heaven, we believe every puppy deserves to grow into a happy, well-behaved companion. Mat training is one of the kindest and most effective ways to help them learn self-control and feel safe in their environment. It’s perfect for all kinds of puppies, whether you have a playful Beagle puppy, a sweet Cavalier King Charles puppy, or an energetic Corgi puppy. It’s a game both you and your puppy will love!
Think of the mat as your puppy’s happy place, a cozy island where they can feel safe and calm. When you teach them to “settle” on their mat, you’re not just telling them to lie down; you’re teaching them to chill out and enjoy a moment of peace. This skill is amazing for many situations, making your home a more peaceful place for everyone. Let’s dive into how to teach this wonderful “settle” command!
Why Mat Training is Super Cool for Your Puppy
Mat training, sometimes called “place” training, is much more than just asking your puppy to lie down on a rug. It’s teaching them a valuable life skill that helps them understand when and where to relax. This can make life so much easier and more fun for both of you! Here are some of the fantastic reasons why teaching your puppy to “settle” on a mat is a brilliant idea:
- A Safe and Happy Place: Your puppy learns that their mat is a comforting spot where good things happen. It becomes their personal den, even in a busy room.
- Learning to Chill Out: Puppies can get super excited! Mat training helps them learn to calm their zoomies and settle their excited barks, even when there’s a lot going on.
- Helping with Visitors: When friends or family come over, your puppy can go to their mat instead of jumping all over everyone. It helps them feel included but also polite.
- Mealtime Manners: If your puppy tries to sneak food off the table, their mat can be their designated spot during mealtimes, keeping them out of trouble.
- Traveling Companion: If your puppy knows their mat, you can bring it to new places like a friend’s house or a park, and they’ll have a familiar, comforting spot to relax.
- Building Confidence: Learning a new skill like “settle” makes your puppy feel smart and happy. It boosts their confidence because they understand what you want them to do.
- Easy Vet Visits: Some puppies get nervous at the vet. If they have a “settle” command and a familiar mat, it can help them feel a little more at ease during their check-ups.
- Managing Energy: Instead of letting your puppy just run wild, you can ask them to “settle” on their mat, which gives them a healthy way to manage their energy and practice self-control.
Think about how wonderful it would be if your Poodle puppy or Cavapoo puppy could calmly watch you eat dinner, or chill out on their mat while you’re busy with other things. This skill is incredibly useful and creates a more harmonious home for everyone. It’s all about positive reinforcement and making learning fun!
Getting Ready: Your Mat Training Checklist
Before you start your super fun mat training adventure, you’ll need a few simple things. Getting prepared makes the whole process smoother and more enjoyable for both you and your puppy. Remember, consistency and patience are your best friends here!
What You’ll Need:
- A Special Mat: This can be a small blanket, a bathmat, a dog bed, or even a towel. The key is that it’s easy to move and clearly different from other rugs or beds in your home. It should be just big enough for your puppy to lie down comfortably.
- Super Yummy Treats: These are the “paychecks” for your puppy! They should be tiny, soft, and something your puppy absolutely loves – even more than their regular kibble. Think small pieces of cooked chicken, cheese, or special training treats.
- A Quiet Spot: Start training in a calm area of your home with minimal distractions. This helps your puppy focus on you and the mat.
- Your Happy Voice: Puppies respond best to positive, upbeat tones. Get ready to praise your puppy with lots of “Good boy!” or “Good girl!”
- A Clicker (Optional): Some people like to use a clicker. It’s a small device that makes a quick “click” sound. The click marks the exact moment your puppy does something right, followed immediately by a treat. If you don’t have one, a clear “Yes!” works just as well.
Choosing the right mat is important. It shouldn’t be too big, as you want your puppy to clearly understand the boundaries of their special spot. A toy puppy like a Teacup Chihuahua might need a smaller mat than a French Bulldog puppy, for example.
Here’s a quick guide to choosing the best treats:
| Treat Type | Why it’s Good | Example |
|---|---|---|
| High-Value | Super exciting and motivating for your puppy. | Tiny pieces of cooked chicken, cheese, hot dog. |
| Soft | Easy for your puppy to chew and swallow quickly, so training keeps moving. | Soft dog training treats, boiled potato bits. |
| Small | You’ll give lots of them! Don’t want to fill your puppy up too fast. | Pea-sized pieces. |
Remember, your puppy learns best through short, fun training sessions – usually about 5-10 minutes each, a few times a day. Keep it positive and playful!
Step-by-Step Guide to “Settle” on a Mat
Now that you have all your supplies, let’s get to the fun part: teaching your puppy to “settle” on their mat! We’ll break it down into easy, bite-sized steps. Remember to be patient and celebrate every little success!
Step 1: Introducing Your Puppy to the Mat Fun!
The very first step is to make the mat the most amazing place in the world for your puppy. We do this by associating it with super yummy treats!
Place the mat on the floor in your quiet training spot. Hold a tasty treat in your hand and let your puppy sniff it. Now, slowly move the treat over the mat, guiding your puppy with their nose so all four paws step onto the mat. The *moment* all four paws are on the mat, say “Yes!” (or click your clicker if you’re using one) and immediately give them the treat.
After they get the treat, let them wander off the mat. Then, repeat! Lure them back onto the mat, mark with “Yes!” or a click, and treat. Do this about 5-10 times in a row. It’s all about teaching them: “Mat = yummy treats!” Your Havanese puppy or Bichon Frise puppy will quickly catch on to this fun game!
Step 2: Adding the Magic Words: “Mat” or “Place”!
Once your puppy is happily stepping onto the mat when you lure them, it’s time to add a special word. This word will tell them exactly what you want them to do.
As your puppy is about to step onto the mat (just before their paws touch it), say your chosen word clearly, like “Mat!” or “Place!”. As soon as they are on the mat, say “Yes!” or click, and give them a treat. Repeat this many times. Soon, your puppy will connect the word “Mat” with the action of getting onto their special spot. You’ll be amazed at how quickly they start heading to the mat just from your voice!
Step 3: Making Them Stay: Building “Settle” Time
Now that your puppy understands how to go to their mat, it’s time to teach them to stay there for a little bit. This is where the “settle” part really comes in!
Ask your puppy to “Mat!” As soon as they are on it, say “Yes!” and give them a treat. Instead of letting them leave right away, wait just one second, then say “Yes!” and give another treat. Then wait two seconds, “Yes!”, treat. Slowly, slowly, you’ll increase the time they spend on the mat.
Here are some tips for building duration:
- Small Steps: Don’t try to go from 1 second to 1 minute immediately. Go from 1 to 2, then 2 to 3, then 3 to 5, then 5 to 7, and so on.
- Surprise Treats: While your puppy is on the mat, occasionally drop a treat between their paws. This teaches them that good things happen *while* they are staying on the mat, not just for getting on it.
- Move a Little: Once your puppy can stay for a few seconds, take one tiny step away from the mat, then step back and treat. Slowly increase the distance you move away.
- Don’t Rush: If your puppy gets off the mat, simply lure them back on and start over with a shorter duration. Don’t scold them; just make it easier next time.
This step requires lots of patience. Your puppy is learning to control their excitement and enjoy being still. It’s a big deal for a playful Dachshund puppy or an active Boston Terrier puppy!
Step 4: Practice with Wiggles and Giggles: Adding Distractions
Once your puppy can stay on their mat for a good minute or two in a quiet room, it’s time to make things a little more challenging and real-world! This helps them learn to “settle” even when exciting things are happening around them.
Start with very small, gentle distractions and slowly make them bigger. Remember to always go back to an easier step if your puppy struggles.
- You Moving: First, practice having your puppy stay on the mat while you walk around the room.
- Gentle Sounds: Next, try turning on some soft music or having a quiet conversation while they’re on the mat.
- Someone Else Moving: Have another family member walk past the mat a few times.
- Soft Toys: Gently roll a soft toy a little distance from the mat, ensuring your puppy stays put.
- Different Rooms: Move the mat to a different room, like the living room or kitchen, and practice there.
Each time you add a distraction, start with a shorter duration of stay and lots of treats. If your puppy jumps off, it means the distraction was too much. Just make it easier next time, and keep it positive! Your Cavachon puppy or Cockapoo puppy will gradually learn to ignore the exciting things around them and enjoy their mat time.
Step 5: The “All Clear!” Signal: Teaching a Release Word
Just as important as asking your puppy to go to their mat and “settle” is telling them when they are allowed to leave! This is called a “release word.” It helps your puppy understand that they need to stay on the mat until you give them permission to go.
When your puppy has been on their mat for the desired time (even just a few seconds when starting this step), say a clear, happy word like “Okay!” or “Free!” As you say the word, toss a treat *off* the mat. This encourages them to get up and move off the mat, connecting the release word with being able to leave. This is also a good moment for a quick praise and perhaps a little play or cuddle before the next training session.
Always make sure you use your release word *before* your puppy gets off the mat by themselves. If they leave without you saying the word, gently lure them back and try again with a shorter duration. This teaches them that good things happen when they wait for your signal.
Mat Training in Action: When to Use “Settle”
Once your puppy is a pro at “settling” on their mat, you’ll find countless times when this skill comes in handy. It truly makes life with your furry friend smoother and more enjoyable!
Think of the “settle” command as a polite way to ask your puppy to take a chill pill. It’s not a punishment; it’s a calm invitation to their happy place. Here are some real-life situations where mat training shines:
- When Guests Arrive: Instead of a bouncy greeting, ask your puppy to “Mat!” They can still see and be part of the action, but from their designated calm spot. This is especially good for energetic breeds like a Cocker Spaniel puppy or a playful French Bulldog puppy.
- During Mealtimes: If your puppy tends to beg or get underfoot, sending them to their mat keeps them out of the way and teaches them good manners.
- When You’re Working or Busy: Need to do chores, work on homework, or have a quiet phone call? Ask your puppy to “Mat!” so they can relax near you without interrupting.
- At Coffee Shops or Outdoor Restaurants: If you take your well-socialized puppy to a dog-friendly spot, their mat provides a clear boundary and a comfortable place for them to relax quietly.
- During Movie Night: Instead of wrestling for the couch, your puppy can enjoy their own comfy spot on their mat while you enjoy family time.
- At the Vet or Groomer: While waiting, having a familiar mat and command can help reduce anxiety for your puppy.
- Teaching Impulse Control: If your puppy sees something exciting, like a dropped toy or a rolling ball, asking them to “Mat” before letting them go teaches them to pause and wait.
The beauty of mat training is that it’s portable. You can take your puppy’s mat anywhere, and they’ll instantly have a familiar, comforting “home base.” This can be incredibly reassuring for puppies when they are in new environments. Whether you have an adorable Havamalt puppy or a charming Havapoo puppy, this skill will serve them well throughout their lives.
Common Questions & Helpful Tips for Mat Training
Even with the best instructions, you might run into a few bumps along the way. That’s totally normal! Training is a journey, and every puppy learns at their own pace. Here are some common questions and tips to help you keep mat training fun and effective:
My Puppy Keeps Rolling Off the Mat! What Do I Do?
This is common! It usually means you’re asking for too much too soon. If your puppy keeps leaving the mat before your release word, just shorten the time you expect them to stay. Go back to asking for just 1-2 seconds, reward heavily, and then release them. Build up the time again in tiny increments. Always make sure your treats are super high-value to keep their attention focused on the mat.
What if My Puppy Doesn’t Want the Treats?
If your puppy isn’t interested in the treats, it could mean a few things:
- The Treats Aren’t Good Enough: Try different, even yummier treats! Small pieces of cooked chicken, cheese, or turkey often do the trick.
- They’re Too Distracted: Move to an even quieter room with absolutely no distractions.
- They’re Not Hungry: Train before mealtime when your puppy is more eager for food.
- They’re Not Feeling Well: If your puppy normally loves treats and now doesn’t, a quick check-up with the vet might be a good idea.
How Long Should Training Sessions Be?
Puppies have short attention spans! Keep sessions super short and sweet, typically 5-10 minutes max. It’s better to do several short sessions throughout the day than one long, boring one. Always end on a good note, leaving your puppy wanting more!
Can I Train an Older Dog to “Settle” on a Mat?
Absolutely! You can teach an old dog new tricks, and “settle” on a mat is one of them. The steps are exactly the same, though an older dog might already have some ingrained habits that take a little more patience to work through. But with consistent positive reinforcement, dogs of any age can learn and benefit from mat training. If you’re looking for an adult dog, or even a standard puppy, these techniques work just as well!
What if My Puppy Jumps Off When I Walk Away?
If your puppy jumps off when you take a step away, it means you moved too far too fast. Go back to just standing next to the mat, rewarding for staying. Then, instead of a big step, just shift your weight slightly, then return and reward. Slowly, slowly, increase the distance. Remember to make sure the puppy is really comfortable with the duration of the stay before adding distance.
Here’s a quick table to help you remember the most important do’s and don’ts:
| Do’s ✅ | Don’ts ❌ |
|---|---|
| ✅ Keep it Positive and Fun! | ❌ Get Frustrated or Scold Your Puppy. |
| ✅ Use Super Yummy Treats. | ❌ Use Bland Treats or Regular Kibble. |
| ✅ Keep Sessions Short (5-10 mins). | ❌ Make Sessions Too Long or Boring. |
| ✅ Be Patient and Consistent. | ❌ Expect Instant Results. |
| ✅ Always Use a Release Word. | ❌ Let Your Puppy Jump Off Whenever They Want. |
| ✅ Go Back to Easier Steps if Struggling. | ❌ Push Your Puppy Too Hard. |
Mat training is a fantastic way to build a strong, loving bond with your puppy. It teaches them self-control and provides them with a sense of security. Keep practicing, and soon your puppy will be a “settle” superstar!
Discover Your Perfect Puppy at Puppy Heaven!
We hope this guide helps you and your adorable puppy on your training journey! Teaching your puppy to “settle” on a mat is just one of many wonderful ways to help them become a well-behaved and happy member of your family. Imagine the joy of having a calm, confident companion who understands how to relax in any situation.
If you’re still looking for that special furry friend to bring into your home, Puppy Heaven is here to help! We offer a wide variety of delightful puppies, each waiting to find their forever family. From playful Bichapoo puppies to charming Coton de Tulear, we have a puppy that’s just right for you. You can explore all our available breeds, including designer breeds and purebred puppies, online.
Maybe you’re dreaming of a tiny friend? Check out our teacup and toy puppies, like the sweet Teacup puppy or an energetic Toy puppy. Or perhaps a unique mix like a Mini Doodle is more your style? We also have exciting puppies coming soon!
Every puppy from Puppy Heaven is raised with love and care, ready to start their amazing journey with you. We’re dedicated to helping you find the perfect puppy that fits your lifestyle and brings endless happiness to your home. Visit us today at Puppy Heaven to find your next best friend!
