Illustration: A relaxed adult dog lying on a simple portable mat while its seated owner quietly offers a small reward, in a calm sitting room.

How to teach a dog to settle on a mat

To teach a dog to settle, begin where resting is already easy and reward small signs of relaxation on a comfortable mat. Build time and distractions separately. The aim is a dog who can switch off, not one who must remain motionless while worried, uncomfortable or desperate to investigate.

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