Hello again, it’s Marsha and this week, I’ll be talking about one of my favorite and most used skills with my dogs: stationing. Stationing refers to the practice of training your dog to target a specific object or area and remain there until given permission to move. Mastering the art of stationing can make sharing space with your dog much simpler. By teaching your dog to station on a mat or a bed, you provide them with a reliable tool to stay put when necessary, allowing you to focus on tasks at hand without constant interruptions. This invaluable skill not only keeps your canine out of harm's way but also serves as an effective method to redirect undesirable behaviors, cultivate impulse control, and promote relaxation and concentration. With stationing, you unlock a world of possibilities for peaceful coexistence with your beloved pet.
How do you teach a dog to station?
Step 1: Choose a designated spot.
The first step to teaching your dog to station is to choose a designated spot. Whether it's a cozy mat, a plush bed, or even a secure crate, the key is to choose a location that is both comfortable for your dog and readily accessible. By considering their preferences and desires, you can ensure that the chosen spot becomes an inviting retreat for your pup. It's important to create a positive association with the designated spot, encouraging your dog to willingly seek it out. This will lay the foundation for a successful stationing training process, as their willingness to go to this spot will be a vital motivator throughout their learning journey.
Step 2: Lure your dog to the spot
Teaching your dog to station involves luring them to the designated spot in a way that maximizes their success. To facilitate this, ensure that the spot is easily accessible to your dog, removing any obstacles or barriers that may hinder their approach. During the initial stages of training, positioning yourself near the target spot can increase the likelihood of your dog naturally gravitating towards it. As they do so, promptly mark the behavior with a clicker or a verbal cue, signaling that they have done the desired action. Immediately follow this with a reward, such as treats or a special toy, delivered directly onto the designated spot. This emphasizes the positive association with the area—when they are there, enjoyable things happen. Afterward, release your dog from the spot or toss a treat to reset the exercise for another round of practice--repetition further reinforces the concept. By consistently employing this technique, you pave the way for successful stationing training and create a positive learning environment for your dog.
Step 3: Add a verbal cue
It's time to incorporate a verbal cue that will serve as a clear instruction for your dog to go to their designated spot. Choose a cue that is simple, concise, and easy for you to remember. Whether it's "go to your mat," "bedtime," or any other phrase that resonates with you and your dog, consistency is key. Prior to luring your dog to the spot, say the verbal cue in a clear and assertive tone. By consistently pairing the cue with the action of going to the designated spot and rewarding your dog when they arrive, you help them establish a strong association between the verbal cue and the desired behavior. Over time, through repetition and reinforcement, your dog will begin to understand the cue and respond accordingly, demonstrating their understanding of the stationing command.
Step 4: Increase duration
Once your dog is targeting their spot consistently, the focus is on increasing the duration of time they remain in the designated spot. Begin by asking your dog to stay in the spot for just a few seconds, and gradually extend the duration as they become more comfortable and proficient. This gradual progression allows your dog to build their impulse control and patience gradually. Remember to provide rewards and positive reinforcement for their successful stationing during the increased duration. If your dog gets up or leaves the spot prematurely, simply re-prompt them back to the designated spot and start again. Consistency is vital in reinforcing the expectation that they remain in the spot until they are officially released. By gradually building up their ability to stay for longer periods, you are instilling the valuable skill of self-control and reinforcing the importance of following commands.
Step 5: Add distractions
Once your dog has mastered staying in the spot for several minutes, gradually introduce distractions to gauge their level of focus and self-control. These distractions can come in various forms, such as toys, treats, or people walking by. Observe how your dog reacts to these distractions and whether they can resist the urge to leave the spot. If your dog does get up, calmly guide them back to the spot and start again, reinforcing the expectation of staying until released. It is crucial to ensure that the initial distractions are manageable for your dog, gradually increasing the difficulty as they become more adept at maintaining their position. For instance, if your dog LOVES tennis balls, begin with less exciting toys and progressively work your way up to a tennis ball. By gradually exposing your dog to distractions and helping them succeed, you are building their ability to remain focused and obedient in various real-life situations.
Step 6: Generalize the behavior
Switch up the variables like where and when you practice to help your dog generalize better. By doing so, you help your dog understand that the cue to "go to bed" or their designated spot applies across different situations and settings. Dogs may struggle with generalization naturally, so it's crucial to expose them to various scenarios during training. Change the practice locations, timings, and environmental factors to make the skill stronger and more reliable when applied in real-life situations. For example, practice stationing in different rooms of your house, outdoors in the park, or even at a friend's house. By introducing these variations, your dog learns to associate the cue with the action of going to the designated spot, regardless of the specific circumstances. This broader understanding will enable your dog to respond consistently to the command, even in unfamiliar environments or amidst distractions
Once your dog has mastered the skill of stationing, you'll find numerous practical applications for this valuable behavior. One such use is during cooking or mealtime when you want to keep your dog out of the way. By simply instructing them to go to their designated spot and rewarding them for staying there until released, you can ensure a peaceful and uninterrupted meal preparation or dining experience. Another beneficial application of stationing is for polite greetings. Instead of your dog eagerly rushing to greet guests at the door, you can have them go to their designated spot, allowing the guests to approach and interact with your dog in a controlled manner. You can even take the designated mat outside of your home and utilize it to help your dog relax while you enjoy outdoor activities in your backyard, visit a park, or even sit at a coffee shop. Patience and consistency are essential, along with consistent rewards for your dog's efforts. With practice and reinforcement, your dog will come to appreciate their designated spot, and stationing will become a versatile and indispensable tool in your training arsenal!
Discover the benefits and practical applications of choice-based dog training methods, also known as positive reinforcement or force-free training. Join us in exploring how giving your furry friend choices during training can lead to stronger skills and a more fulfilling and harmonious relationship for both you and your pup.