It is not so difficult to see why your pets love to get on the furniture. It is so comfy, and who wouldn’t want that? However, it is not always the smartest idea, even if you enjoy having your pet on the furniture. Allowing this has the potential to devolve into resource guarding.
It may also irritate guests who are frail, aged, or allergic. Everybody could use some boundaries and discipline in their lives; your pet is no exception. Consider the tips below if you don’t want your pet to have unrestricted access to your furniture.
Install physical blocks
Management is an essential aspect of every training program. You can make your furniture inaccessible to your dog by installing physical barriers to prevent them from sofa surfing, even in your absence. For instance, you can use baby gates, turn your cushions vertically, and place an item on them to make them inaccessible.
Your windows may offer much for your pet; wildlife to watch, curtains to hide behind, and condensation to lick. If your pet climbs your furniture to access your windows, consider making it more accessible. Smaller dog breeds that enjoy gazing through the windows may benefit from a set of pet stairs to rest on.
Create a reward system for your pet
Animals, like humans, are more inclined to adhere to the rules when there is an incentive for good conduct. Animal trainers can provide species-specific tips for persuading pets to act in desirable ways, like avoiding your sofa. You can also find helpful information on the internet.
Based on their breed, type, and unique personality, each animal has varied preferences regarding its response to training. Teaching them to keep off your furniture may require some trial and error, but offering some reward can make the experience much easier and allow you to even know your pet better.
Create an ideal area for your pet
One of the kindest approaches to get your pet off your furniture is to provide them with a spot they will like probably more than your couch. You can purchase luxury dog beds and place them next to the furniture so you and your canine can cuddle up against each other.
Alternatively, you can provide your cats with a cat tree to scratch to their hearts’ delight. Make this bed an enjoyable, safe, and rewarding environment for them, similar to crate training. While your dog is in their bed, you can provide them with interactive toys to encourage them to stay there.
Be consistent
Even with the above and many other strategies for keeping your pet off your furniture, making meaningful progress without consistency can be challenging. Your pet may struggle to appreciate spoken language.
Letting them on the furniture sometimes and not allowing them at other times can confuse them. You are setting your pet up for failure without any consistency. This should apply to all household members, including your guests. The rule should be simple; nobody should ever invite your pet onto the couch.