How to Teach a Bloodhound the Place Command
Teaching a Bloodhound the "place" command requires patience and understanding of this breed's inherent stubbornness and scent-driven nature. Bloodhounds are affectionate and gentle, but their determination and independent streak make obedience training a challenge—rating only 2/5 in trainability. The "place" command is particularly valuable for Bloodhounds because it provides a designated rest area where they can settle, which supports their moderate energy level and helps manage their tendency to follow scent trails obsessively. With 75 minutes of daily exercise already meeting their physical needs, teaching them to relax on a mat or bed gives them a mental boundary and routine. This intermediate command builds impulse control without fighting their nature—instead, we work with their love of comfort and food rewards to create positive associations with staying in one spot.
Step-by-step
- 1
Choose the Right Mat and Location
Select a comfortable, washable mat or bed in a quiet area of your home where your Bloodhound can relax without distractions. Avoid high-traffic zones or areas near windows where scent trails outside might tempt them. This dedicated space becomes their safe haven and makes the command more consistent.
- 2
Lure Your Bloodhound to the Mat
Use high-value treats (small pieces of chicken or liver work well for food-motivated Bloodhounds) to guide your dog onto the mat. Say "place" as they step on it, then immediately reward. Repeat this 5–10 times in short training sessions, keeping sessions brief since Bloodhounds lose focus easily.
- 3
Build Duration with Rewarding Stays
Once your Bloodhound steps on the mat reliably, increase the time before rewarding. Start with 3–5 seconds, then gradually extend to 10, 20, and 30 seconds. Reward frequently while they remain on the mat to reinforce the behavior—consistency matters more than speed with this stubborn breed.
- 4
Add the Release Cue
Introduce a clear release word like "free" or "okay" so your Bloodhound knows when the command ends. Always release them before they decide to leave on their own, which prevents them from breaking the command due to scent obsession or restlessness. This teaches them that staying is a choice you control.
- 5
Practice During Daily Routine
Incorporate "place" into daily life—use it when you're cooking, during meal prep, or when guests arrive. Your Bloodhound's stubborn nature means they learn best through repetition in real-world contexts. Short, consistent practice beats occasional long sessions.
- 6
Troubleshoot Scent Obsession and Restlessness
If your Bloodhound leaves the mat to investigate a scent, calmly return them without emotion and restart. Never chase or create excitement—stubbornness thrives on engagement. If they're restless after 75 minutes of exercise, ensure they've had adequate physical activity before training; a tired Bloodhound settles more easily.
Pro tips
- Exercise first, train second: Give your Bloodhound their full 75 minutes of exercise before training sessions. A well-exercised hound is more mentally available and less likely to be driven by scent obsession during practice.
- Use a scent-free mat or wash it regularly: Bloodhounds rely heavily on scent. A mat that smells like previous sessions or treats will distract them. Keep it clean and odor-neutral so they focus on your cues instead of old scents.
- Celebrate small wins and stay patient: Bloodhounds are stubborn and trainability is low (2/5). Expect slower progress than other breeds, and reward incremental improvements like staying for just 5 extra seconds. Your consistency and positivity will eventually overcome their independent streak.
Frequently asked questions
My Bloodhound leaves the mat constantly to follow scents. Is this normal?+
Yes. Bloodhounds are scent-driven by nature, which is their #1 challenge. Keep training sessions short and in a scent-controlled environment initially. Gradually build their ability to ignore distractions. If they leave, calmly return them without scolding—punishment won't overcome their instinct.
How long should training sessions be for a Bloodhound?+
5–10 minutes, 2–3 times daily. Bloodhounds have moderate trainability and lose focus quickly. Short, frequent sessions are far more effective than one long training block. Consistency matters more than duration with this stubborn breed.
What if my Bloodhound isn't food-motivated?+
Try higher-value rewards like small pieces of liver, cheese, or a favorite toy. Some Bloodhounds respond better to praise and affection. You can also train right before mealtimes when they're naturally hungrier. Experiment to find what your individual dog finds most rewarding.
Can I use the place command to prevent my Bloodhound from drooling on guests?+
Absolutely. Once reliable, sending your Bloodhound to their mat keeps them in a settled position and away from guests' laps. This is one of the most practical benefits of the command, especially given the breed's heavy drooling tendency. It's a kind way to manage behavior without restriction.