No matter the age of a dog, teaching it a proper bedtime routine can be frustrating for you as its owner. This is especially true if the dog has already been allowed to sleep in an inappropriate area. However, an owner who is willing to be compassionate and firm can easily train a pet to follow the rules using this simple and consistent method.

Decide Upon Expectations

While many pet owners swear by crating, others prefer to simply offer a dog bed or a pile of blankets. Some owners, especially those with toy breeds, even allow the dog into their own bed provided the dog does not crowd them. Having clear expectations in mind before training will help you avoid confusion.

Set a Ritual

Dogs respond well to patterns and routines. A ritual of a final trip outside, a few moments of low-intensity petting, or a half-hour of dozing in front of the television with their master can all be used for the bedtime ritual. Dogs also pick up on human nighttime patterns such as showering, brushing teeth or turning off most of the lights.

Establish a Command

A command such as “bed” is the dog’s final cue that it is time to rest. At first, the owner may have to use other commands such as “lay down” and “stay”. Those who decide to use a crate can simply usher their pet in and close the door without fanfare.

Enforce the Command

If the dog refuses to stay in its place, the usual methods of punishment such as confining the dog to a crate or verbal correction can be used. Owners should never strike their dog, but should demand obedience.

Using this method consistently, an owner can train a dog to sleep in the appropriate place at bedtime.