Can my dog get on the couch:
should you allow your dog to get on the couch? Is it okay to let your dog go to your bed? These are questions for many dog owners. There are also many people who think that dogs should not be able to ride on the couch or even on the bed. For some, it is simply a personal preference. Others believe that this can lead to Aggression or other behavioral problems.
Can my dog ride on the couch?
Is it wrong to let a dog sleep in a bed or climb on the couch? The answer is no ! In fact, everyone does what he wants! Dogs love to fall in love on the Couch and on the bed. It is often pleasant for you. They also like to spend time in places where there is the smell of their master. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide the rules of your household and stay consistent. Here are some tips that will help you decide what is best for your dog and your home.
Behavioral effects in dogs
Despite what some still say, if you let your dog get on the couch, he will not be dominant. Just because there is no domination (a link here that explains it to you: myth of domination ). This will not suddenly cause aggression. However, be careful not to inadvertently reinforce certain behaviors where you are sending the wrong message. For example, it would be unfortunate if your dog protects the resources on the couch or on your bed.
Making these places temporarily or permanently prohibited is possible for several reasons. You may have difficulty sleeping with your dog in bed. Moreover, when he is asleep, your dog may even attack you because he feels disturbed. You can choose when and where your dog is allowed, but it requires some learning for the dog. You can not allow your dog to ride whenever he wants if it is to free him once he has dirty paws. Remember, a dog needs consistency to understand what environment he lives in. Don't feel guilty about spending time with your dog on the couch. But do not make these moments frustrating for the dog.
Finally, if you have small children at home, it is best to prevent the dog from riding on the couch when you are there. Imagine a child playing on the couch and disturbing the sleeping dog. This can cause the dog to become defensive or even pinch.
Concerns for dirt
Many owners prefer to keep their dogs away from their furniture for fear of dirt. To go further, some people are even concerned about zoonoses, which can be transmitted between humans and dogs. However, if you keep your dog healthy, the risk is very low.
Whether you leave your dog on the couch or not, your dog should always perform veterinary examinations. Regular care also helps the dog to stay healthy. If you do not want your dog to get on the couch or bed, this is also your right. But, it will also be necessary to teach your dog. Please, learning is not a punishment! Take the time to teach him.
Keep your dog away from your sofa
Even a dog who is allowed to walk on the couch should have a reserved place for him. This allows him to be able to isolate themselves. To prevent your dog from getting on the couch, sessions are needed. But not only ! Your dog should have a beautiful place dedicated to him. In fact, many dogs love comfort. So you have to find the place and the bed that suits her.
It is also important to ensure that your dog does not have access to the sofa / bed while you are away. While you are away, you can take your dog to a park for the first time. You can also put chairs, bubble wrap or baskets. This will make the area uncomfortable. This gives your dog a better chance to go to his area.
Teach your dog to get to his basket
Teaching your dog to go to his basket is very easy. But this, like any exercise, requires several repetitions. Here are 5 steps to help your dog stay in his basket:
1-take treats, toys or both, depending on what your dog prefers. Drag him to his mat.
2 - once your dog is inside, reward him.
3-repeat this exercise for 5 minutes a day until your dog expects to get into the basket naturally.
4-Just before your dog comes into the basket, say the command, like "into the basket". Reward him as soon as he is in him. At this point, the dog is always attracted.
5 - this will be the most difficult step. You will gradually ask that the bait be cleared, and then be able to walk the dog to your basket without leaving them nearby. The dog is regularly rewarded to stay in his basket.
Tip++:
You can put professional toys in your dog's basket. The basket should NEVER become a repair surface. After all, NO ONE should disturb the sleeping dog in his area. If your dog is on the couch, make sure you ask him to go downstairs (you can even put him on) and reward him as soon as he does.
Bulldog on the couch
Can my dog ride on the couch? The answer is "yes", but ultimately the decision is yours. It is up to you to guide your dog so that he can "do good".