When you invest in new furniture, you don't want your pets to get it hairy or muddy as soon as you have it delivered. Unless you’re going to cave to their begging looks, you have to find a way to keep Fido and Kitty off the couch and chairs. If you need help and willpower to train your dog or cat to stay off your new pieces, below are some suggestions.

How to Keep Your Pets off the Furniture

1. Ban From the Beginning

It’s far easier to prevent animals from climbing on furniture if you train them to stay off it from the day you bring them home. Make this a part of the rules from the beginning, and you won't have to break them of the habit once you buy new furnishings.

2. Allow at Invite Only

If you already have pets, more conditioning is needed. Teach your pets the "off" and "okay" commands. When they jump onto a chair or sofa without your permission, tell them to get off and don't let them back up until you say okay. This will quickly prove effective while you are home—or at least in the same room—but they may relapse when you are out of sight.

3. Set Booby Traps

To keep them off while you’re away, consider booby-trapping their favorite chair or sofa. For instance, connect one end of a fishing line to a favorite cushion and the other to a pile of lightweight aluminum baking pans balanced a few feet above the floor. The loud, clattering sound that occurs when they jump on the couch will startle them and dissuade them from doing it again.

4. Provide an Alternative

Part of the reason dogs like people furniture is because it’s comfortable. Provide a soft alternative and teach them it's just for them. Dogs are often happy with a pillow—or even just a blanket—in the corner. However, cats often like a raised perch somewhere that provides a view.

To purchase gorgeous new home furnishings, check out the inventory at WRC Furniture Gallery, a venerable furniture store in Dothan, AL. They have served customers throughout Dale, Henry, and Houston counties since 1958, specializing in bedroom and living room items, including sofas, recliners, dressers, mattresses, and more. Visit their website to view a map and store hours or call (334) 699-7467 to ask about availability.