Diva Dog Training Blog Dogs On The Bed? Never!

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Dogs On The Bed? Never!

Posted on Sep 22, 2011
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Unless you decide otherwise! I don’t have a one-method-fits-all approach to dog training and behavior modification. There are rules and then, there’s the wonderful “whatever” command. It, of course, should be used sparingly and preferably not when an overly serious dog trainer is around.

I believe the first few weeks of a dog’s life in their new home is when the standards should be set. I would go so far as to say they shouldn’t be allowed on the bed or furniture and they should go through at least basic obedience and learn house manners. If the dog is worthy of sharing the space on their human’s bed, then it can happen after an appropriate amount of structure.

In my home, I have had a “no dog on the bed” rule and I’ve had the “you’re little so you can be on the bed” rule, and now, it’s more of a right of passage. The larger dog, Zoe, doesn’t sleep on the bed and only gets up after being told it’s okay. She asks first and it’s usually in the morning when I’m getting ready for work. All of the dogs know the meaning of the word “off” and I think it is important to enforce it so they will follow instruction if we are visiting a not-so-dog-accomodating home.

It’s funny to me that people have kids and understand the need for structure but their dog knows no boundaries. If you want boundaries and peace in the kingdom and when out in public, start it early and be consistent. Later, it will all seem so easy – especially when you get the opportunity to tell them, “whatever!”