How to Teach a Bernese Mountain Dog the Place Command
The "Place" command is an excellent obedience skill for Bernese Mountain Dogs, leveraging their calm, gentle nature and good trainability. Teaching your Berner to settle on a mat or bed gives them a designated relaxation spot—particularly valuable since Bernese Mountain Dogs mature slowly and may still have jumping tendencies as adolescents. This command also channels their moderate energy level constructively, reducing unwanted behaviors like counter-surfing or jumping on guests. Given their sensitivity and affectionate temperament, Bernese Mountain Dogs respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement and will genuinely enjoy having a "safe place" to relax. Mastering this intermediate skill strengthens your bond and creates calm in busy households.
Step-by-step
- 1
Choose and Mark the Mat
Select a specific mat, bed, or cushion that will always serve as your Berner's "place." Place it in a low-traffic area away from the main activity. Using the same spot consistently is crucial because Bernese Mountain Dogs respond well to routine and clarity.
- 2
Lure Your Dog to the Mat with High-Value Rewards
Hold a treat near the mat to encourage your Berner to walk or step onto it. The moment all four paws touch the mat, mark the behavior with "Yes!" and immediately reward with treats or praise. Repeat 5–10 times per session, keeping sessions short (10–15 minutes) to match their moderate energy and prevent frustration.
- 3
Add the Verbal Cue "Place"
Once your dog reliably moves to the mat for treats, say "Place" just before luring them onto it. Over 3–5 training sessions, gradually fade the lure so the verbal cue alone prompts the behavior. Bernese Mountain Dogs' good trainability means they pick this up quickly.
- 4
Build Duration on the Mat
Once your Berner settles on the mat, wait a few seconds before rewarding—don't reward the instant they step on it. Gradually increase duration to 30 seconds, then 1 minute, working at their pace. Their calm temperament means they'll likely enjoy the settled behavior once established.
- 5
Add Distance and Distractions Gradually
After your dog holds a solid 2–3 minute stay, practice the command from different distances within the room. Slowly introduce mild distractions (gentle sounds, movement) while rewarding calm settling. Given their sensitivity, avoid sudden loud noises; progress gently.
- 6
Reinforce the Behavior in Everyday Life
Send your Berner to their place during meal prep, when guests arrive, or when they need a quiet break. Reward generously for calm behavior to make the mat a genuinely rewarding refuge. Consistency turns this into a reliable, lasting obedience skill.
Pro tips
- Bernese Mountain Dogs are sensitive and food-motivated—use their favorite treats (small, soft ones work best) and enthusiastic praise to reinforce "Place," but never use punishment if they don't respond immediately. They thrive on encouragement.
- Their calm temperament means they actually enjoy settling—once the command is established, many Berners will voluntarily go to their place when they need rest. This natural inclination works in your favor.
- Practice "Place" daily during their 60-minute exercise window, ideally after some outdoor activity when they're content but still focused. A tired, happy Berner learns fastest.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take a Bernese Mountain Dog to learn "Place"?+
Most Bernese Mountain Dogs grasp the basic concept in 5–7 training sessions due to their good trainability (4/5). Building a solid 5–10 minute stay takes 2–4 weeks of daily 10–15 minute sessions. Remember they mature slowly, so patience pays off.
My Berner keeps jumping off the mat. What should I do?+
Jumping off is normal at first, especially in adolescents. Calmly lure them back to the mat without fussing, reset, and reward a brief stay. Avoid frustration—their sensitivity means harsh corrections backfire. Short, positive sessions work best.
Can I use the "Place" command while my dog is overstimulated or excited?+
It's best to avoid practicing when your Berner is already overexcited. Use the command once they're calm enough to focus. If they're jumping due to pent-up energy, give them their recommended 60 minutes of daily exercise first, then train.
What if my Bernese Mountain Dog pulls on the leash to the mat?+
Leash pulling is common in this breed. Let them walk naturally to the mat at first rather than pulling them. Once they understand the command, practice it off-leash indoors in a safe space. Keep sessions positive and reward effort.