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Published on September 18th, 2025
Updated on September 18th, 2025
It’s no surprise your dog wants to hang out on the couch with you. After all, it’s cozy, comfy and has that familiar and comforting scent of “eau de you,” even when you’re not on it. Smaller dogs might also appreciate the change in scenery that comes from being elevated. But not everyone wants their pets putting the “fur” in furniture. Knowing what it is that your dog finds most appealing is the first step in training them to keep all four paws elsewhere.
For those humans—and dogs—who are puzzled by the need for this article, here are some reasons why some people prefer to keep dogs off the couch:
Understanding these reasons doesn’t mean those dogs are any less loved!
The key part is to set clear expectations for your dog and to be as consistent as possible. Speaking of which…
When it comes to keeping your dog off the couch, consistency is key. And that starts with setting clear rules from day one. Even if you think it’s fine for your dog to “just visit” the couch occasionally, bending the rules only sometimes can send a mixed message. Dogs learn best when expectations are consistent, so decide on the rule early and stick to it.
If your dog tries to climb onto the couch, calmly use their collar or harness to guide them toward their bed or another designated spot and reward them when they get there. You may also try simply luring them with a treat or toy and rewarding your dog on their bed. Avoid scolding. Gentle redirection paired with rewarding correct actions helps your dog understand what behavior is expected without creating fear or confusion. Over time, this consistent response builds a clear association: couch = “no,” dog bed = “yes.”
It’s equally important to get everyone in the household on the same page, as well as guests and pet sitters. If one person sneaks in a cuddle on the couch, it can cause confusion for your dog and undo progress quickly. Agree on the rule and communicate it clearly.
It may help to place sticky notes near the couch to remind visitors—and forgetful family members—about your household rules. If you and your dog are attending training classes, it can be beneficial for everyone who lives with your dog to attend so you’re all on the same page with learning. With patience and a united front, your dog will learn the boundaries and find comfort in their own cozy, approved spaces.
If you want your dog to stay off the couch, give them a spot that feels just as inviting. Invest in a high-quality dog bed or supportive mat that suits their size and sleeping style. If you have a senior dog, an orthopedic bed can provide some extra-welcome extra support.
Place the dog bed in an area where the family frequently congregates so they can still be near you, but keep it far enough from the couch to reduce temptation. To make it extra comforting, add a favorite blanket or an old T-shirt that smells like you—familiar scents can help your dog feel secure and relaxed. Placing your dog’s favorite toy on their bed can also help create a positive correlation with where you want them to be.
Whenever they choose their bed instead of the couch, reward them with treats, gentle praise or extra affection. This positive reinforcement teaches your dog that their own space is not only comfortable but also rewarding, making it the natural go-to spot for rest and relaxation.
Teaching your dog the “off” cue gives you a clear, kind way to ask them to leave the couch—or any surface—without frustration. When your dog begins to climb on the couch, start by luring them off with a treat in your hand, moving it toward the floor or their bed. If they hesitate, use gentle leash pressure to guide them down. The moment all four paws touch the ground, say your chosen cue—such as “off”—and immediately reward with the treat. This is another area where consistency is key. If one person uses “off” and another uses “get down,” it can muddy the waters for your dog and delay training.
Repeat this process several times in short, upbeat sessions. Keep your tone calm and positive so your dog associates “off” with a good outcome rather than punishment. Practice in different scenarios, like on the couch, a chair or even your bed, so they learn the cue applies everywhere.
Over time and once your dog is reliably demonstrating the behavior you want to see, begin phasing out treats by rewarding every second or third successful response, replacing food with verbal praise or petting. With consistent daily practice, “off” will become a reliable cue, helping you maintain boundaries while keeping your bond with your dog strong and respectful.
Training is a process, so expect some occasional misunderstanding as your dog learns what you are asking of them. Prevention can help. Instead of scolding your dog for jumping on the couch, focus on redirecting their attention before it happens. Watch for signs they’re about to leap—such as circling, pawing or eyeing the cushions—and step in early. Offer an alternative, like calling them to their bed, giving a favorite toy or asking for a known obedience cue such as “sit” or “down.” This shifts their focus away from the couch and toward a positive activity.
As with any training, avoid yelling and physical punishment. These can damage trust and make your dog anxious around you. If your dog is demonstrating a behavior you don’t approve of, chances are they don’t understand what they are doing wrong, and yelling or punishing them won’t help them learn the appropriate behavior. Redirection keeps training positive, helps your dog understand what you do want and builds better long-term habits. By catching the behavior early and providing a fun or rewarding alternative, you set your dog up for success while keeping your bond strong.
Of course, if you are not around to redirect your dog’s behavior, they may end up on the couch when you’re not watching, especially while they are still learning the desired behavior. While some people have cameras in their home and can see when a dog jumps up, this isn’t necessarily practical and still would not allow you to provide appropriate guidance to your dog when you aren’t there. Instead, here are some options to prep your couch with “stay off!” signs when you’re gone:
Block access with barriers: Use baby gates or exercise pens or close doors to keep your dog out of the room with the couch.
Crate training: For younger dogs and those still in training, a dog crate can provide a safe, comfortable space when you’re away. A crate not only keeps them off furniture but also prevents other behaviors that could get them injured or in trouble.
Use deterrents on the couch: Place aluminum foil, bubble wrap, scat mats or upside-down carpet runners on the cushions to make them less appealing.
If you are changing your rule about dogs on the furniture, expect an additional challenge. After all, you’re asking your dog to unlearn a habit, which can be difficult as anyone who has started a diet or quit smoking can attest!
Start by removing old cues that signaled “couch time,” such as blankets or pillows they used to lie on. If they were basically the dog’s to begin with, move them to the dog bed. This helps break the association between comfort and the furniture. At the same time, increase positive reinforcement when they choose their dog bed or other approved spot. Offer treats, praise or extra affection to make the alternative just as rewarding. Most importantly, be patient.
Unlearning a behavior takes longer than learning it for the first time, so consistency and kindness are key.
Different dogs will adjust to couch rules in different ways, so it helps to consider their specific needs. This is one reason why not all dogs in multi-pup households learn at the same pace.
Puppies often learn faster but require many repetitions and reminders as their impulse control is still developing.
Adult dogs may adapt more quickly once they understand the rules, but breaking old habits can take time.
Senior dogs might need extra comfort. An orthopedic bed or memory foam mat can make the transition easier on aging joints.
“Velcro dogs,” or breeds and personalities who are especially clingy or prone to anxiety, may find it hardest to stay off the couch since they want to be as close to you as possible. For these dogs, placing their bed in a nearby spot and giving extra reassurance can help them feel secure while respecting the new boundary.
Once your dog has learned to stay off the couch, a little maintenance will help keep the habit strong. Continue reinforcing the “off” cue occasionally, even after it’s well established. This keeps the cue fresh in their mind. If possible, wash couch covers and cushions regularly to remove lingering scent cues that might tempt them back up. Just as important, keep rewarding them for using their own space, whether that’s with treats, praise or belly rubs. By occasionally acknowledging the right choice, you remind your dog their bed or mat is still the most rewarding and comfortable place to be.
A mix of ongoing training, scent control and positive reinforcement will help your dog stick to the rules for the long term, keeping both your furniture and your boundaries in great shape.
If you decide to allow your dog on the couch sometimes, set clear rules to keep things under control. Teach “up” as the cue for when they’re invited and “off” for when it’s time to get down. This helps prevent confusion and maintains boundaries. Use a washable couch cover or designate a specific blanket area where they’re allowed to sit, which protects your furniture and contains fur and dirt.
By combining clear cues with a defined space you can enjoy couch cuddles without sacrificing cleanliness or structure, making couch time a treat rather than an open invitation.
Review the following FAQs as a recap. As always, Petco is here to help with a huge variety of pet beds, blankets, stuffies, training tools and treats.
No, it’s not cruel. Dogs can be just as happy and comfortable with their own designated space, especially if you provide a cozy bed, soft blankets and plenty of affection elsewhere.
It depends on the dog’s age, habits and consistency of training. Some dogs learn in a few days, while others—especially those breaking old habits—may take weeks.
Use barriers like baby gates or close the door to block access. You can also use deterrents like aluminum foil or scat mats or secure your dog in a crate when you’re not there to supervise.
While some pet-safe deterrent sprays exist, vinegar can be unpleasant for both pets and humans. Physical barriers are usually more effective and less messy. Also, this can teach your dog to be afraid of water, which is counterproductive when bathing. Remember that your dog is not displaying unwanted behavior to upset you but simply because they don’t understand what behavior you want.
