Boundary Introduction
Week 1
Full Class Instructions
Watch the video below to hear our instructors discuss the beginning stages of using a boundary with your puppy
Quick Notes
Introduce your puppy to an elevated cot, mat, or bed that will act as their boundary space
The goal of the boundary is for your puppy to go up, lay down, relax, and hang out comfortably
This behavior will be useful during activities like eating dinner, watching TV, vacuuming, or when guests arrive
Start in small steps to build a strong and positive association with the boundary
Getting Started
Begin by marking and rewarding any interaction your puppy shows with the boundary
Sniffing it
Looking at it
Stepping near it
Place all treats directly on top of the boundary, not from your hand
Allow your puppy to explore freely — they can walk away if they want
Building the Behavior
When your puppy steps up onto the boundary, immediately mark and reward
Keep the leash loose — do not pull or place your puppy onto the boundary
Reward more when they choose to get back up on their own
Demonstration
Teacher Demonstration with puppy in class
Watch as Laura uses class puppy Watson in her demonstration before the class tries themselves to see key information on how to slowly introduce this behavior to your puppy!
Class Experience
Practice at home!
Now it’s time for you to try with your puppy! This behavior will help with many aspects of your life including where they should go while you are eating dinner, watching tv and more!
Upload a video
Be sure to send us a video demonstrating this behavior as well so we can give you personalized training advice with our virtual video service.
More Discussion
Additional tips and content
Keep boundary training sessions short and fun, since it requires more thinking for puppies
Focus on making the boundary a positive, relaxing place your puppy enjoys being
At home, continue practicing in short sessions to build confidence and consistency