Obedience · Weimaraner
How to Teach a Weimaraner the Place Command
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Short answer
Teach your Weimaraner the Place command by building a positive association with a dedicated mat using treats, then pairing the verbal cue with calm rewards. Gradually adding duration and distance channels their high energy and natural intelligence into settled relaxation, helping manage hyperactivity and anxiety.
The "Place" command is essential for Weimaraners, a breed known for their fearless, energetic temperament and tendency toward separation anxiety and destructive boredom. Teaching your Weimaraner to go to a mat or bed and hold a calm stay gives them a structured outlet for their high energy and provides a safe, positive space when they need to settle. This intermediate obedience skill is especially valuable for managing counter-surfing and hyperactivity, common challenges in the breed. Since Weimaraners are highly trainable and intelligent, they excel at this command when trained with consistency and positive reinforcement. The Place command also helps build confidence and independence, reducing anxiety-related behaviors. With your Weimaraner's 90-minute daily exercise requirement met beforehand, this training becomes an excellent mental enrichment tool.
How to do it
Step-by-step
Tick off each step as you practice it — your progress is saved on this device.
Step 1: Choose and Mark Your Place
Select a specific dog bed, mat, or cushion in a quiet area of your home—consistency matters for Weimaraners. Place it away from high-traffic zones to reduce distraction during early training. This dedicated spot will become their go-to calming station.
Step 2: Build Positive Association with Treats and Toys
Toss high-value treats onto the mat and let your Weimaraner naturally explore it. Reward them generously when they step on it, using their favorite toy or treat immediately. Repeat this 5–10 times daily in short sessions to build excitement around the mat itself.
Step 3: Introduce the 'Place' Cue
Once your Weimaraner is eager to jump on the mat, add the verbal cue 'Place' just before they step on it. Immediately reward them with praise and a treat when all four paws touch the mat. Practice this foundation 10–15 times per session, 2–3 times daily.
Step 4: Add Duration with Calm Rewards
Gradually extend the time your dog stays on the mat before treating—start with 5 seconds, then increase to 10, 20, and 30 seconds. Reward quietly and calmly to reinforce relaxation rather than excitement; avoid exciting play near the mat. This teaches your energetic Weimaraner to associate the place with settling, not stimulation.
Step 5: Introduce Distance and Distraction Gradually
Once your dog holds the Place for 30+ seconds, step a few feet away while they stay on the mat. Return and reward before they break position. Slowly increase distance over weeks, and add minor distractions (movement, sounds) only after they're rock-solid with distance.
Step 6: Practice in Real-Life Scenarios
Once reliable at home, use the Place command during mild real-world triggers—doorbell rings, food preparation, family gatherings. Start with short durations and increase as your Weimaraner's confidence grows. This builds resilience against their separation anxiety and hyperactivity in realistic situations.
For the Weimaraner
Pro tips
- Exercise first, train second: Always ensure your Weimaraner has completed their 90-minute daily exercise before Place training; a tired dog will settle much faster and with better focus than a hyperactive one.
- Use calm, quiet rewards on the mat: Avoid excited praise or vigorous play while your dog is settling—instead use soft voices, gentle petting, and quiet treats to reinforce relaxation, not arousal.
- Make the mat a reward in itself: Especially for anxious Weimaraners, create a special 'safe zone' by offering occasional treats or a special toy only when they're on their place, building it as a refuge they choose willingly.
Owners ask
Frequently asked questions
How do I prevent my Weimaraner from leaving the mat before I release them?
Never reward them for breaking early. If they leave before the release cue (like 'Okay'), calmly walk them back to the mat and restart the timer silently. Do not treat until they remain calm for the full duration. Consistency is key for this smart, obedient breed.
My Weimaraner is too hyper to settle on the mat. What should I do?
Ensure they've had their full 90 minutes of daily exercise before training sessions. A tired Weimaraner is far more willing to settle. Start with very short durations (2–3 seconds) and build slowly. If hyperactivity persists, consult a trainer to rule out anxiety.
Can I use the Place command to help with counter-surfing and destructive behavior?
Absolutely. Redirect your Weimaraner to their place during high-risk times (meal prep, when you're busy). The mat becomes an alternative behavior that prevents counter-surfing and boredom-driven destruction. Pair it with adequate exercise and mental stimulation.
How often should I practice the Place command?
Practice 2–3 short sessions (5–10 minutes each) daily. Because Weimaraners are highly trainable and intelligent, they learn quickly but also need regular reinforcement. Once solid, continue using the command daily in real life to maintain the behavior.
Spotted a mistake or something out of date? Email us — we review every report, fix the guide and update its date. Our guides are general education, not a substitute for a certified trainer or veterinary behaviorist.
