How to Teach Your Hunting Dog to Come Back

Teaching your hunting dog to come back is essential for successful hunting trips. Once your dog has learned the "heel" and "sit" commands, he is ready to begin learning how to come back. Choose a location outdoors that resembles a hunting setting and follow these easy steps to help your hunting dog master the "come back" command.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Plan to spend 5 to 10 minutes every day teaching the "come back" command. Pick a time when the dog is not exhausted.

2. Decide which words to use as the "come back" command. It is standard to say the dog's name in front of the words, "come back" or "come." For example, "Max, come back."

3. Take the dog to the selected location. Attach the dog's leash to his collar to maintain control over his movements. Command the dog to heel and to stay.

4. Step 2 feet away from the dog. Focus on the dog. Say the "come back" command chosen in a loud, firm voice.

5. Tug at the dog's leash if he does not automatically come. When he comes, make him heel and sit. Praise him after he sits.

6. Repeat Steps 3 through 5 until the dog performs them successfully each time. Gradually extend the distance the dog must go once he has mastered the shorter distance.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the same "come back" command every time.
• While it is preferable to begin teaching hunting dogs to come back when they are at least 6 months old, you can start with any age hunting dog that has learned to heel and sit.
• Begin with a training area that is free of distractions. As the dog's performance improves, add one distraction at a time until the training area resembles a more natural environment.