Settlebox
Week 2
Full Class Instructions and Demonstration
Watch the video below to hear Linda describe the settlebox and show how you can do it with Hoagie the puppy!
Quick Notes
The Settle Box is a calm, nonverbal exercise that teaches your puppy how to lower their energy and regulate themselves without constant verbal correction.
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
Class Experience
How to Practice
No verbal commands (no “sit,” “stay,” or “settle”).
Hands should contain, not restrain — no tight grip.
Keep your touch calm and minimal — light shoulder contact only.
Avoid exciting petting or fast movements.
Your puppy may:
Sit naturally
Lie down as they relax
Start excited or squirmy (this is normal)
If needed:
Gently guide the hips into a sit without speaking.
If they pop up, calmly reset them.
If they mouth or play with your hands, move fingers under the collar to stay neutral.
Signs Your Puppy Is Settling
Body softens
Movement slows
Small sigh or visible “release”
Stops trying to get out
Once relaxed:
Remove one hand briefly
Switch hands
Try both hands off
If they stay settled, continue calmly.
Releasing
Make a gentle kissy sound to get acknowledgment.
Use your release word.
Only release when your puppy is fully relaxed and not struggling.
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
Practice regularly at home.
Best time: when your puppy is slightly tired.
Do not practice during zoomies — they are just burning off energy and cannot settle effectively in that moment.
The goal is for your puppy to learn what works: calm behavior earns freedom.