Settle on a mat

Step by step

1. Step 1

   Reward contact

   Place the mat down and reward looking at, stepping on or investigating it.

2. Step 2

   Build stillness

   Deliver several rewards low between the paws while the animal remains on the mat.

3. Step 3

   Add duration

   Pause briefly between rewards, then release before the animal chooses to leave.

4. Step 4

   Practise in context

   Move the mat gradually to slightly busier locations while keeping sessions easy.

Troubleshooting

• If the animal repeatedly leaves, shorten the pause between rewards.
• Use a larger, softer or more stable mat.