4 easy steps to a calm dog: the miracle tip for dog training

We had issues with one of our dogs being aggressive towards other dogs after we moved in. We got a referral to a trainer and he did an analysis. The trainer told us that our dog was stressed and he didn’t think we were in control of the house, so our furry boy decided to take charge!

I had had dogs for many years and finally found a dog trainer who taught me an EFFECTIVE training method that is simple, easy, and most importantly, requires no pulling of a collar, physical force, or loud verbal commands!

This technique is so easy that even a child can help train his four-legged friend. At first glance it looks like a “stay” command; however, there is a difference: no regular verbal or physical commands are used. This technique, called “MATTING” provides your dog with very important information.

With this training method, you become the leader of the pack and your dog can relax. Without this, your dog may feel like he should be the leader, which is stressful and can cause aggression to people and other dogs. Also, if you have a dog with a lot of energy, he/she can really benefit from mats.

You will be able to train your dog and this technique is so simple that it will seem like a miracle!

Here are the 4 easy steps:

Step 1:
Put a towel, rug, or dog bed (big enough for the dog to lie down on and be completely comfortable) on the floor; this is the “carpet”.

Step 2:
With a collar and leash (or leash) on your dog, walk alongside the mat, lead your dog to the mat, and release the leash.

Step 3:
Walk a few feet away, wait a few seconds, and call your dog off the mat and give him a lot of praise: Good dog! Good, come on! Good boy! If your dog tries to walk with you, simply turn around in a calm circle and place the dog back on the mat. Don’t say a single word.

Step 4:
Repeat this process slowly adding 15-30 seconds for how long your dog must remain on the mat before calling him. If the dog can only do 15 seconds, stick with it for several days for it to be successful.

NOTE: When your dog gets up from the mat before you are called, do not say anything, just calmly take the leash or tongue and place him back on the mat. They will quickly learn to stay until called.

Also, as long as they have a paw on the rug, the dog is technically NOT OFF the rug. Wait until your dog has completely walked off the mat before placing him back on the mat. Let your dog do whatever he wants on the mat because this is his space.

Let them sit, lie down, stand, or (eventually) play with a toy. Put your dog on the mat while he does things, but keep the time short at first. It’s also okay to pet them when they’re on the mat.

For example, in the morning I put my hound on the bathroom rug while I get ready, I put him on the kitchen rug while I make his breakfast, and a dog bed by the front door keeps him from mistreating guests. He no longer wants to chase after other dogs, he seems to have less anxiety and is a calm “gentleman”.

Can you imagine how this technique can help you? Your neighbors, friends and family will be amazed when they see how you have trained your dog! Over time, you will be able to get your dog to relax with you while he watches a movie instead of pestering him to play fetch constantly. It will be like a miracle!