Many dogs learn to see soft, comfortable areas to rest (such as your couch and bed) as valuable places that they are unlikely to relinquish readily. If you choose to permit your dog to share these resting areas with you, be sure to use preventative measures in order to avoid the unpleasant situation of having a dog who won’t get off when asked. In the worst-case scenario, a dog may growl, bark, or bite when asked to move. If this is the case, seek the assistance of a professional trainer immediately.
The goal is to teach your dog that when she leaves a desirable spot at your re- quest, good things are likely to happen. Start with the dog on the floor as you sit on the couch. Encourage her up onto the couch. If she isn’t big enough to jump up, you can use a pillow or two or give her dog steps to step on. To get her to jump off the couch, pat the floor and encourage your dog to jump off. Click or say “yes” when she does and give her a tiny treat. It won’t take her long to realize that getting up on the couch isn’t so exciting, but jumping off when you ask her to is terrific!