how do i train my dog to come
how do i train my dog to come
How to Train Your Dog to Come
Coming when called is one of the most important commands you can teach your dog. It's a safety issue, as it can prevent your dog from running into traffic or getting lost. It's also a convenience, as it allows you to recall your dog when you need to, such as when it's time to go home or when it's misbehaving.
Teaching your dog to come when called is a relatively simple process, but it does require some patience and consistency. With a little effort, you can have your dog coming when called in no time.
Step 1: Choose a Cue Word
The first step is to choose a cue word for your dog to come. The most common cue words are "come," "here," and "fetch." Choose a word that is short, easy to say, and distinctive.
Step 2: Get Your Dog's Attention
Before you can teach your dog to come, you need to get its attention. This can be done by calling its name, clapping your hands, or using a clicker. Once you have your dog's attention, say the cue word in a clear, upbeat voice.
Step 3: Lure Your Dog to You
Once your dog has looked at you, hold out a treat or toy in your hand and lure it towards you. As your dog comes towards you, continue to say the cue word in a happy, encouraging voice.
Step 4: Reward Your Dog
As soon as your dog reaches you, give it a treat or a toy. This will help to reinforce the behavior of coming when called.
Step 5: Repeat Steps 2-4
Repeat steps 2-4 several times, gradually increasing the distance between you and your dog. As your dog gets better at coming when called, you can start to fade out the lure.
Troubleshooting
If your dog is not responding to the cue word, there are a few things you can do. First, make sure that you are using a high-value treat or toy. If your dog is not food motivated, you can try using a toy that it really loves. Second, make sure that you are giving your dog enough time to respond to the cue word. If you call your dog's name and then immediately start to lure it towards you, it may not have had enough time to process the cue word. Wait a few seconds before giving the lure.
Finally, be patient. Teaching your dog to come when called takes time and consistency. If your dog is not responding right away, don't get discouraged. Just keep practicing and you will eventually see results.
Additional Tips
Here are a few additional tips that can help you train your dog to come when called:
- Practice in a variety of locations. The more you practice in different environments, the more likely your dog will be to come when called in any situation.
- Vary the distance between you and your dog. As your dog gets better at coming when called, gradually increase the distance between you and your dog.
- Use distractions. Once your dog is reliably coming when called, start to introduce distractions. This could include other dogs, people, or objects.
- Be consistent. The key to teaching your dog to come when called is consistency. Make sure that you are using the same cue word, following the same steps, and rewarding your dog in the same way every time.
With a little patience and consistency, you can teach your dog to come when called in no time. This is an important command that will keep your dog safe and allow you to enjoy more walks together.
Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:
- The American Kennel Club's guide to teaching your dog to come
- Pawsome Pet Training's guide to teaching your dog to come
- Cesar Millan's guide to teaching your dog to come
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