We are setting a light blanket on Grady’s mat so he associates it with lying down and holding a down-stay. The trainer/handler can bring the blanket along to other places for Grady to lie on, which helps to keep surfaces such as carpeting, car upholstery, or bedding from getting too covered in dog fur. It also provides a bit of comfort and cleanliness for Grady if he has to lie on a hard floor.