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Why teach "Go To Mat"

  • Provides a safe space

    The mat is a place your dog can retreat to if they're feeling overwhelmed or need to be alone

  • Supports relaxation

    Teaching your dog to relax on a mat can help reduce stress and anxiety, and promote a calm state of mind

  • Comfortable travel

    Offering your dog a familiar object when traveling can help them feel comfortable, faster

Go To Mat - Level 1

Objective

The objective of level 1 is for your dog to reliably place all of their feet on the mat

Follow these steps when practicing level 1

• Place your dog’s mat on the ground and toss a treat on the edge of the mat

• The moment your dog puts one foot on the mat, say “Yes!”

• To reset your dog, toss a second treat a few feet away

• After 10 good reps, only say “Yes” when your dog has 2 feet on the mat

• Once your dog is reliably putting 2 feet on the mat, make the exercise more challenging by only saying “Yes” when your dog has all 4 feet on the mat

Pro tip

If your dog isn’t food motivated, substitute treats for a toy, petting or praise


Go To Mat - Level 2

Note: Only move onto level 2 after your dog is reliably placing all of their feet on the mat

Objective

The objective of level 2 is for your dog to reliably lie down on the mat.

Follow these steps when practicing level 2

• Place your dog’s mat on the ground and toss a treat in the center of the mat 

• The moment your dog has 4 feet on the mat, say “Yes!” 

• After your dog is finished eating the treat, say “Down” and give your dog a treat once they’re lying down 

• To reset your dog, toss a second treat a few feet away 

• Practice this exercise until your dog starts to automatically lie down on the mat


Go To Mat - Level 3

Note: Only move onto level 3 after your dog is automatically lying down on the mat

Objective

The objective of level 3 is for your dog to lie down on the mat after hearing you say "Go To Mat"

Follow these steps when practicing level 3

• Place your dog’s mat on the ground 

• Say “Go to mat” as soon as your dog starts to move towards the mat 

• The moment your dog has two feet on the mat, say “Yes!” 

• Reset your dog by tossing a treat a few feet from the mat 

• As soon as your dog finishes eating their treat, repeat the phrase, “Go to mat” 

• Once your dog is reliably responding to your “Go to mat” cue, only say “Yes” once your dog is lying down on the mat


Example

Alisonjoy from School for the Dogs practicing "Go To Mat"


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