In teaching your dog to come when called, very efficient use can be made of the
reward system. Offer your dog food and treats as a bribe to learn the come
command.One thing that you must always remember is that you must never use the “come”
command in order to punish your dog.
You have probably previously noticed a dog misbehaving, the frustrated owner
will then call the dog to her. Once the dog has obeyed the “come” command the
frustrated owner will then scold the dog.
Do this just once or twice and you will quickly undo all the effort spent
training your dog to come.
Whether training an adult dog or a puppy, teaching your dog to come will follow
the same method.
Have some titbits, treats or food in your hand. You will have previously taken
a position a few feet away from your dog. Call your dog's name to attract his
attention, at the same time show him the food and command him to come.
Your dog will be enticed by the food and will come over to you. As your dog
approaches, crouch or kneel down with your arms open. Encourage him on his way
to you with a ”good dog” or similar words. Always remember to show your
emotions in your voice. You should sound pleased and excited.
The food or treat is given to him when he reaches you. Praise him with
affection.
Repeat this process often, and your dog will soon get the idea.
You can also train your dog with a long lead, but the previous method should
form the basis of the training. Lead training helps to reinforce the required
response, particularly under conditions where other distractions may exist.
With your dog on a lead and positioned a few feet from you. Stand and face your
dog. Give the command “come”. If you have used the previous training to good
effect your dog should come without a problem. However, it is possible that
your dog may not be sure as to what is expected. In such a case a quick gentle
jerk on the lead should be sufficient to make him aware of what you require.
Please however never tug on the lead or use it in a way that may hurt your dog.
If your dog does not respond when on a lead, revert back to the previous reward
based method and try again in a few days.
When training your dog it is always advisable to use hand signals as well. When
commanding your dog to come slap your thigh a couple of times. Alternatively
you can point to the ground at your side. Decide on a sign and then stick to
that one only. Your dog will quickly learn the sign in conjunction with the
come verbal command. With a little practise you will find that your dog will
respond to the signal only.
If you feel that you will need more help to train your dog
or puppy, there is a book that I wholeheartedly recommend. What I like about
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For more dog training articles, please CLICK HERE
Recommended Reading on Dog
Training, House Training, Care and
Behavioural Problem Solutions.
Please Click Here
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