Train your dog to come on command.

 

Training a dog to come on command seems as though it is the simplest thing in the world. In actuality it can be one of the most difficult actions to train your dog to accomplish. It is easiest to train this command when dealing with a puppy that has not yet developed any bad habits, but if you follow these simple steps this method will work in your dog training sessions with a dog of any age.

The basis of this method is that any dog will come to the right kind of dog treat, and be repelled by you paying them no attention – they will lose interest. The most important part of this dog training strategy is to never, ever punish your dog for coming to your side.  This includes lying down next to you or walking beside you. Hand gestures, striking, yelling, or altering to a harsh tone of voice registers as punishment in the mind of a dog.  It is in a dog’s nature to retreat from threats, or (worst cases scenario) attack. Punishment for bad behavior will not aid you in your dog training.

Since we got that out of the way now we can focus on the positive. What drives your dog wild with delight? Every dog has that something that makes their tail wag and their mouth drool. Is it a dog treat, perhaps a dog cookie?  It is up to you to assess what triggers this response in your dog. It could be chicken strips, a tennis ball, perhaps a squeaky toy, or maybe a knotted rope. Whatever the item, this will be a key ingredient for your dog’s training.

For your first dog training session take your dog’s treat and bring it to a large and open room. Bring in your dog and move to an opposite side of the room. Call your dog to you.  When they finally come to you give them whatever it is you have determined to be their “treat”. Start this dog training with small distances and repeat at least five times a day until this becomes routine.

The next step of this dog training is to attach a lengthy leash to your dog. This allows your dog the illusion of freedom. Go walking about your house or in a gym (not outside), and let your dog get about twenty feet ahead of you. Let them explore freely and get “lost” in their curiosity. Once they do call them back in a high but comforting voice. Upon returning to your side give them their treat and kind and loving words of accomplishment. Continue this five times a day for a week or two and then begin incorporating distractions like visiting neighbors or training around children at play.

This dog training method will ensure you and your dog the ability to walk in dog parks or around other people. If you feel your dog is getting into danger, or about to be naughty, you will be able to call them by name and have them return to your side immediately.  This will be invaluable, so begin this dog training at a very young age.

Good luck, you are going to need it.