I really like Kay Laurence’s sensibilities. This example of teaching “settle down” is a prime example of her thinking. Have you ever been able to relax in a position that is not natural to you? Probably not! So why do we prescribe exact positons and locations to dogs and expect them to relax and possibly fall asleep in a position that might be “artificial” to their own pattern of relaxation?
http://kaylaurence.wordpress.com/2011/08/25/settle-down-now/#comment-60