Dog expert shares 'superpower' command that can calm pets in just five minutes
A dog-training expert has offered a lifeline to exasperated pet owners – by sharing his secret command that can get a pup under control.
Dog whisperer Sam Hoke has revealed one of his go-to tricks to help calm down distressed dogs, making life easier for any pet owner. And the good news is, it can be taught in "five minutes".
So what is it? It turns out, "the place command" could be the answer to keeping pets chilled. This "superpower" is easy to learn and follows just four simple steps.
Firstly, Sam suggests using a raised bed to provide a clear space and location for the dog to go to. Once on the bed, reward your pooch with a little treat, then repeat the process every time they step on the bed.
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This first part uses positive reinforcement techniques to try and trick the dog into believing that good things happen when they step onto their spot which will come in handy for Sam's next few steps. The next stage involves repeating the process of guiding your dog onto the bed but introducing the command "place".
Repeating the rewards process each time, by now dogs should be eager to jump back onto their spot and be in a calmer state. To continue the training further, once on their spot lure your dog down into the lying down position, delaying giving them the treat until they've fully completed the command. The final step comes with the addition of adding eye contact while they're on the floor.
Dog trainer Sam has shared a tip on TikTok that's going viral, showing how to instil calm behaviour in your dog by gradually increasing the duration of their 'calm spot' training and introducing distractions. The video, posted on Sam's page @dogtrainerofficial, has amassed over 53,000 likes, with many users sharing their positive outcomes.
One satisfied dog owner commented: "My 5.5 month golden retriever puppy wakes up from his bed and goes straight to place without being asked anymore. If I leave the room he will go to place and wait. It’s a useful command," while another said: "This is without a doubt 100% true! It takes away all worries of your dog causing an inconvenient disturbance."