Fed up with messy furniture? How to keep your dog off the sofa
Wondering how to keep your dog off the sofa?
The easiest way is to give them their own comfy dog beds, use clear commands like "Off," and reward good behaviour with treats.
You might also add a barrier like stair gates and be consistent with your rules.
Does your furry friend think your new sofa is their throne?
You're not alone, as many dog owners face this question.
Those puppy eyes might make you weak!
But sofa cushions covered in dog hair and muddy paw prints aren't what you want in your living room.
In this post, you'll find simple ways to keep your sofa dog-free whilst making sure your best Fluffy Friend feels loved and comfortable. Let's jump in!
Table of Contents
Why dogs love your sofa so much
Before we fix the problem, let's understand why your dog keeps hopping up on your favourite piece of furniture:
1. It's super comfy!
Just like you, your dog loves soft, warm places.
Your sofa is basically a cloud compared to the floor!
2. They want to be near you
Dogs are pack animals who love their favourite person.
If you're on the sofa, that's exactly where they want to be too.
3. They're bored or curious
Sometimes, for younger dogs, the sofa is just an interesting place to explore.
Or it's a hangout when there's nothing else to do.
Related: Why Does My Dog Sleep at My Feet?
So, how to keep dogs off the sofa?
Tip 1: Set clear household rules
The first step to a sofa-free dog life is making clear rules everyone follows:
1. Decide on your sofa policy
Is your sofa completely off-limits?
Or maybe they can hop up only when invited?
Whatever you choose, make it crystal clear.
2. Use the same words every time
Pick a simple command like "Off" or "No sofa" and use it every single time.
Dogs learn through repetition!
3. Get all family members on board
Your dog will get super confused if one person says "no sofa" whilst another lets them snuggle up during film night.
Make sure everyone follows the same rules.
Tip 2: Give your dog their own cosy bed
Your dog needs their own comfy place to relax!
1. Location matters
Put their bed in the same room as the sofa, so they don't feel left out of family time.
2. Make it super inviting
Check out MrFluffyFriend's ultra-plush dog beds – they're specifically designed to be more appealing than your sofa!
They have raised edges, making dogs feel safe and snug.
3. Add their favourite things
Put their favourite toys or blanket in their bed.
Some pet parents even add an old t-shirt with their scent to make it extra comforting.
Tip 3: Use positive training methods
Training is the best way to change your dog's habits for good:
1. The "off" and redirect method
When you spot your pup on the sofa, say "Off" in a firm (but not angry) voice, then immediately show them where to go instead.
2. Reward good behaviour like crazy
Give a tasty treat, tummy rubs, or excited praise when they use their own bed.
Make it a big deal!
Dogs repeat behaviours that get rewarded.
3. Practice makes perfect
Do short training sessions every day.
Even 5 minutes helps build good habits.
Tip 4: Try helpful products
Sometimes training needs a little help from these useful items:
1. Physical barriers work wonders
Stair gates can block off the living room when you're not around to supervise.
2. Protect your furniture
Not quite there yet?
Washable, fluffy sofa covers are a good option whilst training is in progress.
They keep fur, drool, and muddy paws off your cushions while your dog learns the new rules.
3. Deterrent sprays (use carefully!)
Some pet-friendly deterrent sprays have smells that dogs avoid.
Always test a small area first and never use anything harmful!
4. The aluminium foil trick
Many dogs hate the feeling and sound of tin foil.
As a temporary measure, try putting some on your sofa cushions when you're not using them.
5. Give them their own sofa!
Give your dog their very own spot to lounge!
A cosy dog sofa keeps them off yours while still feeling part of the family.
It’s comfy, stylish, and just for them.
Add their favourite blanket or toy to make it extra special.
Tip 5: When you're not home
This is often the trickiest time to keep your dog off the sofa:
1. Limit access
The simplest solution is to close doors to off-limits areas.
Safety Tip:
It's always a good idea to make sure that they have enough space, good airflow, and no sharp or dangerous things around.
2. Provide alternatives
Ensure they have plenty of resting spots, fresh water, and favourite toys to keep them busy.
3. Consider a camera
Pet cameras let you check in and even talk to your dog when you're away.
Some can even toss treats!
4. Use a long lead outside
If your dog plays outside a lot, use a long lead.
It lets your dog move around but keeps them safe and away from the sofa or inside the house.
Tip 6: Be consistent every day
This might be the most important tip of all:
1. No "just this once" exceptions
Dogs don't understand "sometimes" rules.
Even one couch cuddle can undo weeks of training.
2. Use the same words and signals
Your dog learns from patterns, so keep your commands and body language the same each time.
3. Be patient
Some dogs learn quickly, whilst others (especially senior dogs) might take longer to change their habits.
Don't give up!
Tip 7: Ask for professional help if needed
If you've tried everything and still struggle:
1. Dog trainers can work wonders
Sometimes, bringing in a professional dog trainer for just one or two sessions can solve problems you've been fighting for months.
This tip is extra helpful for busy dog owners.
2. Check for other issues
If your dog is hurting, they might jump on the sofa to feel more comfortable.
A quick vet check can rule this out.
Tip 8: Be kind, not scary
Scaring your dog might stop the behaviour for a moment, but it doesn't help them learn what to do!
1. Don't yell or punish
Yelling or using scary things (like loud noises or sprays) can make your dog feel afraid or confused.
2. Use kind words and treats
Dogs learn best when we stay calm and give rewards for good choices.
3. Build trust
When your dog feels safe and loved, they’ll want to listen and do the right thing!
Related: Why Does My Dog Twitch in His Sleep? Explained!
Still struggling to keep the dog off the sofa?
Sometimes, even when you try really hard, your dog still jumps on the sofa.
That's okay — you're not alone!
1. Try a new bed
Maybe your dog needs a different kind of bed — one that’s extra soft or cosy.
If you have an older dog, an orthopaedic pillow might just do the trick.
2. Make their spot special
Put their favourite blanket or toy on their bed.
That way, it feels nice and fun.
3. Move the bed close
Place their bed near you so they don't feel left out.
4. Change things up
Try moving the sofa or furniture to make it less comfy for your dog.
Related: Best Sofa Fabric for Dogs: A Complete Guide
Wrapping up: A clean sofa AND a happy dog
Teaching your dog to stay off the sofa takes time and patience, but it absolutely works if you stick with it.
Remember that your furry friend isn't trying to ruin your furniture – they just want comfort and your company!
With a super comfy bed of their own, clear rules, and lots of praise for good behaviour, your dog will soon learn that having their own space is even better than stealing yours.
And hey – you can still have cuddle time!
Just join them on their bed or a cosy blanket on the floor sometimes.
Your back might even thank you for the stretch!
If you need a fluffy sofa cover to protect your furniture or a sofa for your pup, head on over to our shop!
Your dog (and your clean sofa) will thank you!
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