How to Train Dogs to Stay Off Furniture

A dog who scratches up furniture can be a problem for the average pet owner. Most furniture isn’t cheap. It’s an investment that can drain a bank account. For this reason, it is important for a dog owner to train his dog to stay off the furniture with a variety of techniques.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Spray bottle
• Dog repellent
• Baby gates
• Dog treats

1. Spray furniture with a dog repellent. Buy an organic one that is safe. Also, try to get one that is odorless except to the dog.

2. Put up baby gates. Place them in the entrance way to any room you don’t want your dog to go in because of the furniture. Take them down only when he’s outside.

3. Reward him to stay on the floor. Every time your dog is about to jump on the furniture, say “no” or making an obvious noise. Then, coax him toward you and give him a treat.

4. Cover your furniture with plastic. Plastic isn’t comfortable. A dog won’t want to sit on it. And, after a while, he’ll associate furniture with discomfort and you can take the plastic off.

5. Squirt him with water. Use a spray bottle. Do it every time your dog jumps on any furniture. Be sure to say “no” as added reinforcement.

6. Mark your territory. Do it by using snapping a “clicker” every time your dog enters a room you don’t want him in because of the furniture. You can also spray dog repellent at the entrance of the room.

7. Turn up your cushions. Since soft, plush furniture are attractive to the average dog, upturned cushions will be unappealing and make him not want to jump on the furniture.

8. Say the magic words. “Stay” is one of them. Teach your dog to stay in one place just by hearing the word. Then, when you see him about to pounce on your precious furniture, say it.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't lose patience with your dog as you train him to stay off the furniture. What you do will work over time.