How to Teach a Brittany the Place Command
The Place command is an essential tool for managing a Brittany's boundless energy and preventing destructive boredom. Brittanys are bright, eager-to-please dogs, but their high energy (5/5) and sensitivity mean they need structured outlets and clear boundaries. Teaching your Brittany to settle calmly on a mat or bed gives them a designated rest zone, helps channel their intensity into focus, and provides relief during high-stress moments like visitors arriving or meal preparation. This intermediate obedience skill complements your daily 90-minute exercise routine and builds impulse control. Using positive-reinforcement methods, your Brittany will learn that staying on their place is rewarding and calm—not confinement, but a choice they enjoy making.
Step-by-step
- 1
Select and mark a specific place
Choose a mat, bed, or rug in a quiet corner away from high-traffic areas. Use a consistent verbal marker ("place" or "mat") and a distinct object so your Brittany learns exactly where the command applies. Brittanys respond well to clear, predictable cues, so consistency is critical.
- 2
Lure and reward movement to the place
Using a high-value treat (chicken, liver, or special toy), lure your Brittany toward the mat. The moment their feet touch it, mark with "yes!" or a clicker and reward generously. Repeat this 5–10 times in a session. Your Brittany's eagerness means they'll catch on quickly if motivation is high.
- 3
Add the verbal cue before luring
Say "place" a half-second before luring them to the mat, so they associate the word with the action. After 10–15 successful reps, try a light lure (just pointing) or wait to see if they offer the behavior without guidance. Brittanys are driven to problem-solve, so give them a chance to think.
- 4
Build duration with brief stays
Once your Brittany reliably moves to the place, reward them for staying put for just 2–3 seconds. Gradually extend this to 10, 30, then 60 seconds over multiple sessions. Avoid long stretches initially—sensitive Brittanys can become anxious, so keep early stays short and positive.
- 5
Practice releases and consistency
Teach a release word ("okay" or "free") so your Brittany knows when the command ends. Always release before they break on their own, preserving the calm tone. Practice in different rooms and gradually add mild distractions to proof the behavior.
- 6
Integrate into daily life
Use Place during meal prep, when guests arrive, or before walks to manage your Brittany's hyperactivity surge. Pair it with calm activities like treat-dispensing toys or chews to reinforce that settling is rewarding. This channels their 5/5 energy into productive focus and prevents destructive boredom.
Pro tips
- Brittanys are bird-focused and prone to recall lapses; use Place as a boundary-setter before outings or when arousal spikes. It redirects their drive into a calm, controlled behavior and prevents them from bolting after distractions.
- Keep training sessions short (5–10 minutes) and end on a success. Their bright, sensitive nature means they thrive on frequent wins and can become frustrated or shut down if sessions are too long or corrections are harsh.
- Use Place right before or after your 90-minute exercise routine. A tired Brittany settles faster and longer, making training more effective and preventing the destructive boredom that derails progress.
Frequently asked questions
My Brittany gets anxious on the mat and keeps jumping off. What should I do?+
Brittanys are sensitive and may perceive Place as isolation. Start with very short stays (2 seconds), stay nearby initially, and reward calm before they leave. Never force them onto the mat—keep it voluntary and positive. If anxiety persists, place the mat closer to your activity area so they don't feel abandoned.
How do I keep my high-energy Brittany from getting restless during longer stays?+
Tire them out first with 20–30 minutes of fetch or running before training. Then, give them a long-lasting chew or treat-dispensing toy on the mat to occupy their mind. Brittanys settle better when physically and mentally engaged, so pair Place with an activity that holds their attention.
Can I use Place to manage my Brittany's barking and destructive boredom?+
Yes, strategically. When your Brittany has been exercised and has a chew, settling on their mat redirects energy productively. However, if they're under-exercised or barking from frustration, they need more of the 90-minute daily exercise first. Place works best as a structured routine, not as a substitute for adequate activity.
How long does it usually take a Brittany to learn Place reliably?+
Brittanys are highly trainable (4/5), so most learn the basic behavior in 1–2 weeks of consistent short sessions. Full proofing—staying calm in all environments and with distractions—may take 3–4 weeks. Their eagerness and sensitivity mean they progress quickly but also respond better to frequent, positive reinforcement than harsh corrections.