Training your Havanese to go to a designated “place” is an essential skill that encourages good behavior, provides mental stimulation, and creates a safe spot for your dog to relax. This command helps manage situations like guests arriving, meal prep, or moments when you need your dog to stay calm. With patience and consistent practice, your Havanese can master the “place” command, fostering a more harmonious home environment.

Why Teach “Place”?

Teaching your Havanese to go to their “place” offers numerous benefits:

• Creates Boundaries: Gives your dog a clear understanding of where they should stay during certain activities or events.
• Promotes Calmness: Encourages relaxation and reduces anxiety by providing a designated safe space.
• Improves Behavior: Prevents jumping on guests, begging at the table, or getting underfoot in busy areas.
• Enhances Training: Builds focus, impulse control, and reinforces other basic obedience skills like “stay.”
• Supports Safety: Keeps your dog out of harm’s way during situations like cleaning or handling hot food.

What Is a “Place”?

“Place” refers to a specific spot where your dog learns to go and remain until released. This spot can be a dog bed, mat, crate, or any area you designate as their “place.”

Preparing to Teach “Place”

1. Choose the Right Spot

• Select a location that is free from distractions but still allows your dog to feel part of the household.
• Use a defined surface, such as a mat, dog bed, or rug, to help your Havanese understand their boundaries.

2. Gather Supplies

• High-value treats (small, soft treats are ideal).
• Clicker (optional) to mark correct behavior.
• Leash or long line for control during training.

3. Establish a Release Word

• Choose a consistent word to signal your dog can leave their “place,” such as “Okay” or “Free.”

Step-by-Step Guide to Teaching “Place”

1. Introduce the Place

• Lead your Havanese to the designated spot using a leash or by guiding them with a treat.
• As soon as they step onto the mat or bed, say “Place” and reward them with a treat.
• Allow them to step off freely without any command. Repeat several times to associate the word “Place” with the spot.

2. Encourage Staying on the Place

• Once your Havanese reliably goes to the “place,” encourage them to stay there for a few seconds.
• Use the “Stay” command if your dog knows it, or simply reward them for remaining on the mat.
• Gradually increase the duration before giving the release word.

3. Add Distance

• Begin to take a step back after sending your dog to their “place.”
• If they stay, reward them generously. If they step off, guide them back without scolding.
• Gradually increase the distance between you and the “place” over several sessions.

4. Add Distractions

• Introduce mild distractions, like dropping a toy or clapping your hands.
• Reward your Havanese for staying on their “place” despite the distractions.
• Gradually increase the difficulty by introducing new distractions or practicing in busier environments.

5. Practice the Release Word

• Use your release word consistently to signal your dog can leave their “place.”
• Avoid allowing them to leave without the release word, as this undermines the command.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Dog Won’t Go to the Place

Cause: Lack of understanding or motivation.
Solution: Use a higher-value treat or toy to entice them onto the spot. Reward small steps, like touching the mat with their paw.

2. Dog Leaves the Place Too Soon

Cause: Training duration is too long or distractions are too intense.
Solution: Shorten the duration and simplify the environment. Gradually build up time and distractions.

3. Dog Is Distracted

Cause: External stimuli are overwhelming.
Solution: Practice in a quiet area before gradually introducing distractions.

Advanced Training for “Place”

1. Duration Training

Extend the time your Havanese stays on their “place” by rewarding at intervals. Start with short durations and increase gradually, ensuring they remain calm and relaxed.

2. Out-of-Sight Practice

Teach your Havanese to stay on their “place” even when you leave the room. Start with brief absences and gradually extend the time.

3. Real-Life Scenarios

Incorporate “place” training into daily routines:

• Send your dog to their “place” when guests arrive.
• Use the command during meals to prevent begging.
• Direct them to their spot during busy household activities.

Tips for Success

1. Keep Sessions Short and Fun
   Havanese have short attention spans. Limit training to 5–10 minutes per session to keep them engaged.
2. Be Consistent
   Use the same “place” and release word during training to avoid confusion.
3. Reward Generously
   Reinforce the behavior with treats, praise, or playtime to make the “place” a positive experience.
4. Practice Daily
   Frequent practice helps solidify the command. Incorporate training into your daily routine for consistency.
5. Stay Patient
   Learning “place” takes time, especially for younger dogs. Celebrate small successes and progress.

FAQs

Q: Can I teach “place” to an older Havanese?
Yes! Older dogs can learn “place” with patience and consistent practice. Their intelligence makes them quick to pick up new commands.

Q: What if my dog keeps leaving the place?
Reduce distractions and shorten the duration. Gradually build up their ability to stay as they gain confidence.

Q: Can I use multiple places in the house?
Yes, but start with one specific “place” to establish the behavior. Once they’ve mastered it, you can introduce additional locations.

Q: Should I use the crate as their “place”?
You can, but ensure the crate is a positive space and not associated with punishment. Some dogs prefer a separate “place” for relaxation.

Q: How long should my Havanese stay on their “place”?
Start with a few seconds and work up to several minutes. With practice, your Havanese can stay for longer periods during specific activities.

Summary

Teaching your Havanese the “place” command creates a safe, calming environment while reinforcing good behavior and obedience. By using positive reinforcement, consistency, and patience, you can train your dog to reliably go to their “place” and remain there until released. Whether for safety, convenience, or behavior management, mastering “place” enriches your relationship with your Havanese and helps maintain a harmonious home.

Sources

• American Kennel Club: akc.org
• Havanese Club of America: havanese.org
• International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants: iaabc.org
• PetMD: petmd.com
• Merck Veterinary Manual: merckvetmanual.com

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