Introduction
Want a calmer, more well-behaved dog? Teaching your dog to lie down and relax isn’t just about obedience—it’s about creating peace in your home and giving your dog a useful tool to manage excitement. In this guide, you’ll learn how to teach your dog to lie down and relax step by step. Whether your dog gets overexcited or just needs more structure, this training technique is simple, effective, and rewarding for both of you.
Why Teaching “Lie Down and Relax” Matters for Dogs
The “lie down” command is one of the most valuable cues your dog can learn. It helps manage hyperactivity, improves focus, and increases control in busy environments. When combined with a relaxation routine, it can even help reduce anxiety and reactivity.
Training your dog to lie down and relax supports calm behavior during meals, guest visits, vet appointments, or downtime at home. It also teaches impulse control and gives your dog a way to self-soothe. This foundational skill promotes better behavior in everyday situations and builds a stronger connection between you and your dog.
For puppies, it’s an excellent early step toward longer stays and reliable obedience. For adult dogs, it’s a great way to reinforce calm behavior.
Step-by-Step Guide to Teach Lie Down and Relax
Step 1: Start with “Sit”
- Begin when your dog is in a sitting position.
- Hold a treat at their nose, then slowly lower it to the ground between their front paws.
- When they follow the treat and lie down, say “Yes!” or use a clicker and give the treat.
- Repeat this until they begin to lie down consistently.
Step 2: Add the Verbal Cue
- Once your dog lies down easily with the hand motion, add the cue “Lie down” just before you move the treat.
- With repetition, they’ll associate the word with the action.
Step 3: Add Duration and Calmness
- After they lie down, reward them only when they remain in position for a few seconds.
- Gradually increase the time they stay down before offering the treat.
- Keep your tone soft and relaxed to encourage calm energy.
Step 4: Introduce the “Relax” Cue
- Once your dog is comfortably lying down, use a cue like “Relax” or “Settle” in a soothing voice.
- Offer a long-lasting chew or soft petting to reinforce a calm state.
- You can also practice deep breathing yourself while sitting beside them—it helps set the tone.
Step 5: Practice in Different Environments
- Once your dog gets it indoors, practice in new locations like the park, vet waiting room, or during family dinner.
- Stay calm, go slow, and reward for calm behavior in each new setting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forcing Your Dog Into Position
- Never push your dog into a down position—it causes stress and damages trust.
- Use treats and luring instead.
- Expecting Too Much Too Soon
- Don’t expect your dog to lie down and stay relaxed for minutes right away.
- Build up duration in small steps.
- Using Excited Praise
- Excited tones can energize your dog instead of calming them.
- Use calm praise and soft movements to reinforce relaxation.
- Skipping the “Relax” Phase
- Teaching the position is only part of the goal.
- Take the time to reinforce calm behavior once they’re down.
- Only Practicing During Chaos
- Train when things are quiet to build a solid behavior before using it in distractions.
- Don’t wait until guests arrive or chaos breaks out to start teaching this skill.
Extra Tips & Recommendations
- Use a Mat or Blanket: Train your dog to lie down and relax on a specific mat. This “place” helps them associate the cue with calm behavior in that space.
- Reward Calm Breathing and Body Language: Soft eyes, slow breathing, and relaxed muscles are signs your dog is really settling.
- Incorporate into Daily Routines: Ask your dog to lie down and relax while you cook, eat dinner, or work from home.
👉 Related Read: [How to stop your dog from jumping on people] (link to previous post)
Conclusion
Teaching your dog to lie down and relax is one of the best ways to bring more calm, structure, and peace into your life together. With gentle training, consistent practice, and patience, your dog will learn to settle on cue and enjoy a calmer mindset.
🛋️ A relaxed dog is a happy dog—start practicing today and build a peaceful routine!