The place command: What it means to us and our dog

I first published this piece in January 2021 and last updated it in June 2024. The bulk of the content is the same, but with some fresh links and examples!

The place command has become incredibly popular in the dog training world—especially on social media. Three years ago I had no idea what “place” even meant. Today, it’s one of Scout’s best skills!

While I’m thrilled that our dog knows place and believe it’s helped us in a range of real-world situations, I also don’t think it’s a magic cure all.

Here are the details of how we personally use the place command.

What is the place command?

Many trainers name and define their commands a bit differently. In general, the place command refers to sending your dog to an object (often an elevated dog cot or bed) and having them stay there until released. It’s essentially a geographic or location-based stay.

Some people enforce a laying-down position while their dogs are on a place command—others allow them to move around so long as they stay within …