Sofa snuggles are great, but…

Let’s talk about a common topic in dog-owning households: dogs on the sofa.

In my home, it’s a mixed policy. Emba (my Pomchi) and Dexter (my daughter’s Chihuahua) are allowed on the sofa, but Mungo (my Spaniel) and Siri (my Dalmatian) aren’t. Why? Well, mainly because the bigger dogs are less practical on the sofa.

Let’s face it, sofa snuggles are one of the great joys of dog ownership. There’s nothing like curling up on the couch with your furry friend by your side, enjoying a quiet evening together. But what about the times when your dog can’t be on the sofa?

It’s completely fine—more than fine—for your dog to be allowed on the furniture if that’s what you enjoy. It’s a personal choice and one that brings comfort and closeness for many people. However, there are times when it’s important that your dog is able to stay off the sofa when needed, and that’s something every dog owner should consider training for.

Why Should Your Dog Be Able to Stay Off the Sofa?

1. Health and Recovery

If your dog has undergone surgery or suffered an injury, it’s crucial to keep them off the sofa to avoid further harm. Jumping on and off the sofa, especially if it’s high off the ground, can worsen injuries or delay healing. And it’s not just for the injured dogs—some dogs are prone to joint issues, like hip dysplasia, and limiting their jumping on furniture can be part of managing their long-term health.

2. Guests and Visitors

Not everyone feels as warmly about sharing the sofa with dogs as we do. Guests might have allergies, fear of dogs, or simply prefer not to have pets on the furniture. In such situations, it’s respectful to have a well-trained dog that understands when it’s time to stay off the sofa and relax elsewhere. This can help avoid awkward situations and keep everyone, including your dog, comfortable.

3. Keeping Things Clean

There are times when keeping the sofa dog-free just makes sense. Perhaps your dog has been out in the rain or mud, and you want to avoid cleaning the couch covers for the hundredth time that week. Or maybe you’ve invested in a new sofa that you want to keep in pristine condition for a while.

Training Your Dog to Stay Off the Sofa—Sometimes

Letting your dog on the sofa doesn’t mean you can’t also teach them to stay off it when needed. This is where the concept of a mat comes into play. A mat acts as a portable bed and a clear visual cue for your dog. When the mat is on the floor, it means “no sofa.” When the mat isn’t present, feel free to invite your dog up for snuggles.

This system works because it’s clear, consistent, and gives your dog a cozy alternative to the sofa.

Teach Your Dog to Settle on a Mat

Here’s a step-by-step guide to teaching your dog to happily relax on their mat, using shaping (no cue needed):

1. Choose a Mat

Pick a mat that’s comfortable but different from your dog’s regular bed. The mat should be easily movable, so you can take it from room to room or even to friends’ homes. Make sure it’s large enough for your dog to lie down comfortably.

2. Introduce the Mat Gradually

Place the mat on the floor and allow your dog to interact with it freely. When your dog shows interest in the mat—such as stepping on it, sniffing it, or even just walking near it—reward them with a treat or praise. This makes the mat a positive and exciting thing to investigate.

3. Reward for Sitting or Lying Down on the Mat

As your dog becomes more comfortable with the mat, they will eventually sit or lie down on it. The moment they do, reward them immediately. Don’t rush or coax them into position; let them offer the behaviour on their own. Continue rewarding your dog for staying on the mat, making it clear that lying on the mat is what gets them the good stuff.

4. Build Duration Gradually

Once your dog is happily lying down on the mat, start building up how long they stay there. In the beginning, reward them frequently (every few seconds) for remaining calm and settled. Gradually, as they become more comfortable, extend the time between rewards. This helps teach your dog that the mat is a place to settle for longer periods.

5. Take the Mat Away When Not in Use

A key part of this training is consistency. The mat should only be available when you want your dog to settle on it. When the mat is on the floor, your dog knows that they should be on it. When the mat is picked up, it signals the end of “mat time.” This keeps the rules clear and easy for your dog to follow.

6. Practice in Different Locations

Once your dog is settling comfortably on the mat at home, practice in different settings. Move the mat to different rooms, take it outside, or bring it with you to friends’ houses. This teaches your dog to associate the mat with calmness and settling, no matter where it is placed.

Why a Mat Is Practical

The beauty of the mat isn’t just for home use—it’s also incredibly helpful when visiting friends or family. If you’re going to someone’s house where dogs on the sofa aren’t allowed, bringing the mat gives your dog a familiar spot to settle in. This helps your dog feel comfortable in a new environment while respecting the house rules.

It’s All About Balance

At the end of the day, whether or not your dog is allowed on the sofa is entirely up to you. But remember, flexibility is key. Having the option to comfortably keep your dog off the sofa when necessary—whether due to health concerns, visitors, or even just keeping your space tidy—is important.

And, of course, for the full mat training videos, including detailed steps on how to master the sofa-snuggle balance, be sure to check out Wags without Walks, my online membership programme. Wags without Walks is designed to help you keep your dog happy and mentally stimulated, even when physical exercise might be limited. You’ll gain access to an entire library of training videos, plus weekly Zoom sessions with me to troubleshoot any challenges and support your dog’s progress.

So, whether you’re in the midst of training or simply looking to build a balanced, happy life with your dog, Wags without Walks can help you get there. 

Until next time, keep those tails wagging!

Laura Carter IMDT