Help with keeping dogs off the bed!

[Freedom]

My first thought was the spine issues too!

I have bichons, and Marlin slipped a disc jumping down off my Dad's bed 3 eyars back. Fortunately, some pain meds and 6 weeks of "bed rest" and he has been fine, but it could have been disastrous!

I bought a set of sturdy stairs for them to go up and down. They didn't take long to learn to use the stairs, and now even the cats use them (lazy or luxury? LOL!)

Anyway, I think they CAN learn that night bedtimes, they sleep in their bed. Nap times, including that morning 'nap,' they are allowed up.

I am more surprised that, having allowed them on the bed for a year (or more for the 4 year old), they have now accepted that they sleep on the floor! My usual statement is: Do something once and if they like it, it is a RULE!

So now you have 2 yea and one nay, plus 2 concerns re jumping. LOL Good luck!

[MRichardson50]

Thanks for responding. I never thought about the spine issues, but will certainly keep that in mind.

Sasha, the 4-year-old, does try to get in bed during the night, but I am a light sleeper and will firmly tell her off and go to her bed. I am actually surprised at how well they have adapted to their new bed and I am loving the extra space.

Even though I love the extra space, I hope my dogs feelings aren't too hurt. They are both so sweet and good natured. I know that they just want to be close to us.

[dab_20]

I think dogs can learn two rules as well. But since you said your one dog likes to try to get on the bed sometimes, I would just stick to one rule. Don't worry about hurting their feelings!! Dogs just want to please you and be near you. If they have a warm place to sleep that's somewhat near you, I'm sure they are as happy as can be

I would LOVE to see pictures of your Cockers. I have a 5 year old Cocker myself, pictured in my sig.