How to Teach a Mastiff the Place Command
The Place command is an excellent obedience exercise for Mastiffs, harnessing their naturally calm temperament and dignified nature to build impulse control and calmness on cue. Mastiffs respond well to having a designated space where they can relax—it channels their low to moderate energy productively and gives them a clear job to do, which appeals to their good-natured, courageous disposition. This command is particularly valuable for managing their stubborn streak and tendency to lean or mouth on people, as it creates a physical boundary and redirects them to a specific location. At 45 minutes of daily exercise, most Mastiffs will be ready to focus on training, and the Place command pairs well with their natural inclination to be calm and composed. Since Mastiffs are moderately trainable, consistency, patience, and high-value rewards are essential throughout this process.
Step-by-step
- 1
Choose and Prep a Designated Mat or Bed
Select a sturdy, washable mat or orthopedic dog bed—Mastiffs appreciate comfortable spots befitting their large size. Place it in a low-traffic area of your home where your dog can relax without distractions. This becomes their 'place,' and consistency in location helps them understand the command's meaning.
- 2
Lure and Reward Your Mastiff onto the Mat
Using a high-value treat or toy, guide your Mastiff onto the mat with a clear 'Place' verbal cue. The moment all four paws are on the mat, mark the behavior with 'Yes!' and reward generously. Repeat 5–10 times per session, always rewarding immediately to reinforce the association.
- 3
Extend Duration Gradually
Once your Mastiff reliably steps onto the mat, reward them for staying there for 2–3 seconds before releasing with 'Free!' or 'Break!' Increase duration in small increments (5, 10, 15 seconds) over several sessions. Mastiffs' calm nature makes them naturally suited to longer holds, but don't rush the process.
- 4
Add Distance and Release Cue
Begin stepping away from the mat while your dog holds Place, starting with just one step. Always return to reward on the mat before releasing. Introduce a consistent release word like 'Free!' so your dog knows when the command ends—clarity prevents confusion and reinforces obedience.
- 5
Introduce Duration in Real-Life Scenarios
Once your Mastiff holds Place for 30+ seconds with you a few steps away, practice during mild distractions—doors opening, family members moving nearby. Their natural calm demeanor is an asset here, but patience prevents regression. Short, successful sessions are better than long ones that frustrate either of you.
- 6
Proof the Command Across Environments
Gradually practice Place with different mats or beds in other rooms and outdoors. Mastiffs can be stubborn, so take time to generalize the behavior. Use the same verbal cue and reward heavily for success in new spaces to reinforce that Place works anywhere.
Pro tips
- Mastiffs love comfort—use an extra-plush bed or mat to make Place feel like a reward in itself, not a punishment, which leverages their dignified, good-natured temperament.
- Train after exercise: A Mastiff who's completed their daily 45-minute activity window will be more focused and calm, making them easier to train and more likely to hold duration on the mat.
- Use a calm, consistent tone rather than excitement; Mastiffs respond to confidence and respect, and their natural dignity means they respect owners who are matter-of-fact rather than overly enthusiastic.
Frequently asked questions
My Mastiff is very stubborn and sometimes ignores the 'Place' command. How do I get their attention?+
Mastiffs respond best to motivating rewards—find what truly excites your dog (high-value treats, a favorite toy, or praise). Use a cheerful, upbeat tone rather than a commanding one; stubbornness often softens with enthusiasm. If they're distracted, you may need to practice in a quieter environment before adding distractions back in.
My Mastiff leans on me and mouths when I'm training. Is this a problem?+
This is common for Mastiffs and is why the Place command is so valuable—it gives them a designated boundary. During training, redirect the leaning/mouthing by immediately cueing 'Place' and rewarding when they do. Over time, they'll learn this as an appropriate outlet for attention-seeking behavior.
How long should a training session be for a Mastiff?+
Keep sessions to 5–10 minutes, 1–2 times daily. Mastiffs have moderate energy and can lose motivation if sessions are too long. Short, consistent practice is far more effective for their trainability level than lengthy, exhausting sessions.
Can I use the Place command to manage my Mastiff's guarding behavior?+
Yes, Place can help redirect guarding tendencies by giving your dog a calm, defined space that's their own. This can reduce anxiety-driven behaviors. Pair it with positive reinforcement to build confidence that having people nearby doesn't threaten their 'place,' but consult a professional trainer if guarding is severe.