Sometimes our dogs get overstimulated. Whether it’s the doorbell, a trip to the vet, or the excitement of guests, their energy can rise quickly and be hard to bring back down. That’s why teaching your dog to relax on cue can be one of the most valuable skills you give them and yourself.
This isn’t about shutting down your dog’s personality. It’s about helping them feel safe, calm, and in control when the world feels overwhelming.
Why Relaxation on Cue Matters
Think of it like giving your dog a soft landing pad in a chaotic world. Just like we learn to take deep breaths or do grounding exercises, dogs can learn a relaxation routine that helps them feel better and behave more appropriately.
It’s not just for high-energy dogs, either. Older dogs, reactive dogs, even those who are simply nervous in new environments benefit from learning how to chill when asked.
Step 1: Pick a Cue and a Calm Spot
Choose a phrase like “settle,” “relax,” or “all done.” It doesn’t matter what the word is, as long as you use it consistently.
Next, decide on a quiet spot for training. A comfy bed, blanket, or crate can work well. Think of it as your dog’s calm corner.
Step 2: Capture Calm Behavior
Instead of forcing your dog to lie down, start by rewarding when they naturally do it. Wait for your dog to lie down on their own, then softly say your chosen cue and drop a treat by their paws. Keep your voice calm and your movements slow.
This is called “capturing,” and it teaches your dog that relaxing gets rewarded.
Step 3: Build the Association
Repeat this process several times a day. After a few sessions, your dog will start to connect the word with the feeling of being relaxed. Eventually, you’ll be able to say the cue before they lie down, and they’ll follow through.
Keep sessions short and positive. This isn’t about drilling obedience. It’s about reinforcing a good feeling.
Step 4: Add Gentle Touch or Massage
Once your dog is comfortable lying down on cue, you can pair the command with slow petting or a soft massage. Use long strokes down their back or gentle scratches behind the ears—whatever your dog enjoys. This deepens their sense of safety and calm.
Step 5: Practice in Different Places
When your dog consistently responds to the cue at home, begin trying it in other calm environments, like a friend’s house or a quiet park. Always set your dog up for success by choosing low-stress situations first, and rewarding every attempt.
Don’t expect miracles in distracting environments right away. Building calm behavior takes time and trust.
Teaching your dog to relax on cue won’t fix everything overnight, but it gives you both a reliable tool for emotional regulation. It also builds trust and helps your dog feel safe, even when things get noisy or unpredictable.
And the best part? It creates more peaceful moments for both of you to enjoy together.
