How to Train a Puppy to Come

Training a puppy or older dog how to come to you on command is possible. The trick is giving the command at the proper times. Telling a dog to come at the wrong opportunity or time will only set your dog up for failure. Follow these steps to teach your puppy or dog how to come.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Know when to use the come command. Many people give the "Come" command when their pet is already running away or engaged in something more interesting. By this time, it is too late to get your dog to obey. Always keep your puppy on his leash when you are outdoors until you have fully trained him.

2. Use reinforcements. Your dog should be able to associate obeying the "Come" command with a treat or something positive. A small snack or some extra scratching behind her ears will reinforce in your dog's mind that obeying you will work for her benefit.

3. Give your dog the "Come" command only when the outcome will be something pleasant. If your puppy doesn't like baths, then don't call her to come and then give her a bath when she comes. Next time she won't be as likely to obey you. Simply go to where your dog is and bring her where you want her, and avoid the word "come" when speaking to her.

4. Make sounds with your hands and mouth that dogs enjoy while giving the "Come" command. Examples are clapping and whistling. These get most dogs very excited.

5. Avoid using punishment when your puppy comes to you if you used the "Come" command after he did something bad. He will not associate the punishment with the disobedient behavior. He will think you punished him for coming to you when you called him.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't expect too much from your puppy too soon. It will take time for her to learn and consistently remember this command.

• Don't ever say the word "come" when you are angry or you are about to punish your puppy. This will undo any successful training that you have completed so far.