Teaching your dog to settle on a mat
Wouldn’t it be nice if your dog could relax calmly at your feet in a coffee shop, during dinner, or when guests arrive? Teaching your dog to settle on a mat gives them a go-to place to rest no matter the setting—making life easier for both of you.
This isn’t just about obedience—it’s about giving your dog the skills to self-regulate, relax, and feel safe even when the world around them is busy or unpredictable. Whether you’re preparing your dog for public outings, therapy work, or just want some peace during Zoom calls, mat training is a game changer.
What Is “Settle on a Mat”?
“Settle on a mat” means your dog goes to a specific mat or towel, lies down, and stays there calmly until released. The mat becomes their portable relaxation zone—like a yoga mat for dogs!
It’s not the same as a formal “stay.” Instead, it encourages calm behavior for longer durations and can be shaped into a natural, relaxed position over time.
Why Teach This Skill?
Helps with impulse control
Useful in public settings (vet offices, patios, stores)
Promotes calm behavior during exciting events like visitors or mealtimes
Builds a positive association with a safe place
Can reduce anxiety in overstimulating environments
Great foundation for therapy and service dog work
How to Teach Settle on a Mat: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Choose Your Mat
Use something portable and distinct like a towel, bath mat, or thin blanket. Stick with the same mat during training to build strong associations.
Step 2: Introduce the Mat Positively
Place the mat on the floor.
As soon as your dog interacts with it (even just a paw or sniff), mark (“yes” or click) and treat.
Repeat until your dog begins offering to step onto the mat.
Step 3: Shape the Down
Wait for your dog to lie down on the mat, or cue it if your dog knows "down."
Mark and treat on the mat, ideally between their paws to encourage staying.
Continue to reward calm, relaxed behavior, gradually increasing the duration before giving the next treat.
Step 4: Add a Cue
Once your dog consistently walks onto the mat and lies down, add a cue like:
“Settle”
“Go to your mat”
“Place”
Say the cue just before your dog moves to the mat, then reward the behavior.
Step 5: Add Duration and Distractions
Begin waiting longer between rewards.
Add gentle distractions (standing up, walking away briefly).
Always return to reward before your dog gets up.
Practice in different rooms, then move to mildly distracting environments like the front porch or a quiet park.
Step 6: Practice in Real Life
Once your dog is fluent:
Use the mat during mealtimes or while you're on calls.
Bring it to dog-friendly stores, patios, or waiting rooms.
Use it during guest visits to encourage calm greetings.
Reward often, especially in new settings. Your goal is for the mat to become a signal: "This is my place to chill."
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Don’t rush duration or distractions—go at your dog’s pace.
Don’t lure repeatedly onto the mat; reward offered behavior instead.
Avoid using the mat as punishment. It should always feel like a safe, rewarding space.
If your dog gets up, calmly guide them back or reset and reduce difficulty.
Mat training is more than just a trick—it’s a tool for emotional regulation, polite behavior, and real-world confidence. With time and practice, your dog will learn that the mat is their personal relaxation zone, no matter where you go.
Want Help Teaching This Life Skill?
At Bright Pet Behavior and Training, we specialize in real-life training that fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re preparing for therapy visits, family dinners, or just want a calmer home, we’re here to help.
Visit Training Services to learn more about private training and customized support.
