Boundary Work

Introduction

Boundary work helps puppies learn how to remain calm and relaxed on their mat even when things are happening around them. In this lesson, Linda and Laura begin introducing small distractions while the puppies practice staying settled on their spot. The goal is for puppies to understand that they can notice activity around them without needing to get up or leave their mat.

Quick Notes

Here are some key ideas to remember when practicing boundary work with distractions.

• Begin with your puppy on their mat in a down position.
• Reward your puppy slowly and calmly while they remain on the mat.
• Match your energy to the behavior you want — calm rewards encourage calm puppies.
• Place treats gently in front of the puppy, rather than tossing them.
• If your puppy looks at a distraction but stays on the mat, mark and reward.
• Puppies are allowed to look at distractions without getting up.
• If your puppy gets up, simply help them back onto the mat and reset.
• Introduce distractions slowly and gradually as your puppy improves.

Practice at home!

Now it’s time for you to try with your puppy!

During the class exercise, puppies practice remaining on their mats while Linda and Laura move around the room. The trainers begin with very small distractions, allowing the puppies to observe the activity without feeling overwhelmed.

Handlers reward their puppies slowly and calmly whenever they remain settled on the mat. If a puppy gets up, they are simply guided back to their spot and the exercise continues.

The room has plenty of activity — people talking, puppies moving, and trainers walking nearby — which makes this exercise challenging for young dogs. Even with these distractions, many puppies successfully remain on their mats, showing the progress they have made in learning to relax in stimulating environments.

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Additional Tips

Here are some helpful reminders when practicing boundary work at home.

• Start with very small distractions such as someone walking by.
• Gradually add mild sounds like a soft clap or foot tap.
• Reward your puppy whenever they notice the distraction but stay settled.
• If your puppy repeatedly gets up, the distraction may be too difficult for them right now.
• Practice reinforcing the down position on the mat before increasing distractions.
• The goal is for the mat to become a place where your puppy feels safe, relaxed, and comfortable.

Over time, mat behavior becomes a very useful life skill. When puppies learn that their mat is a place to settle, it can help them relax in many environments, whether at home, visiting friends, or traveling with their family.