One of the most common concerns dog owners have is getting their dogs to come when called. The idea of the “come” command is to train your dog to come to you on cue. Learning how to teach your dog to come when called saves you and your dog both time and frustration.
Call your dog to you using only his name.
In a low-distraction area, begin saying your dog’s name immediately followed by the word “come.” Once your dog walks to you, give him a yummy treat. Repeat daily for at least a week.
Put your dog on a 20- to 30-foot leash and take him to a medium-distracted environment like the front yard, but not the park. Let your dog become distracted, then say his name immediately followed by the “come” cue. When he comes to you, praise and treat lavishly and then let him go back to what he was doing. Repeat daily for at least a week.
Gradually increase the level and types of distractions as well as the amount of distance between you and your dog until your dog comes to you under all circumstances.
RELATED: How to Stop a Dog From Barking
Practicing the “come” cue publicly where you’ll most likely use it trains your dog to obey this cue despite distractions. It’s the distraction quotient you want him to ignore and the cue you want a response from.
Leashing your dog during early practice sessions effectively allows you to control your dog while he’s most susceptible to a distraction. Later, when your dog has had enough practice, you can remove the leash and practice with him responding to a food treat, positive reinforcement and, ultimately, only your cue.
Repetition is always important when practicing a new cue. Since many professional dog trainers believe training your dog to come is one of the most important behaviors, consistency and practice are highly encouraged.
You may also like: How to Become a Dog Trainer
How a Veterinary Assistant Program Can Boost Your Career Prospects in the Animal Care…
How to Train Your Puppy from the Experts If you have recently acquired an…
Fur, Fins, Feathers, and Fangs: 50 Careers for Animal Lovers Many people who have…
Working as a veterinary assistant is a great way to help animals in need. For…
When most people consider the best and worst states to work in, they’re thinking about…