10/28/2026
Halloween Training Tip #5: Teach your dog to go to their spot.
Want your dog to go to their spot while you greet trick or treaters? Start by giving them a comfortable, rewarding place to go.
You choose what works for your home: a platform, settle mat, rug, towel, cot, or a low, stable ottoman. Make sure it’s nonslip, easy to access, and large enough for your dog to rest comfortably.
Here’s 10 week old Theo, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, learning on a platform!
Here’s how to practice:
Introduce their spot.
Place a couple of treats on it and let your puppy explore. Once they finish, toss a treat away to reset. Repeat a few times.
Reward their choices.
Pause and watch. A look toward their spot, a step closer, or one paw on can earn a click or “Yes!” Follow with a treat delivered on the spot. Gradually build toward all four paws.
Encourage settling.
Once your puppy confidently gets on, reward a sit or down as they offer it. Start with what’s comfortable for your dog.
Add your cue.
When they’re reliably heading to their spot, say “Place” just before they move toward it, then reward when they arrive.
Build duration and teach a release.
Offer several small treats, one at a time, while they stay. Say your release cue, such as “Free” or “Okay,” before tossing a treat away so they learn when they’re free to leave.
Add your movement.
Move one foot, return, and reward. Gradually build toward stepping away, walking to the door, and touching the handle. Add time, distance, and distractions separately.
If your puppy leaves their spot, make the next repetition easier and reward sooner. Keep sessions short and successful.
Then connect it to Halloween! Practice a soft knock, heading to their spot, and staying while you approach the door. Build toward a family member outside saying “Trick or treat!” and eventually wearing a costume.
Use a secure gate or a leash held by another adult as backup whenever the exterior door is open.
Choose your dog’s spot and start practicing before the big night!
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