How to teach a japeke dog to come to you

Japeke is the name given to a mix between a Pekinese and a Japanese Chin. Because it is a mixed breed the appearance and temperament is not as predictable as in a purebred dog. Both these companion breeds are intelligent, though reserved with strangers and in new situations. Teaching a Japeke dog to come when called may be a bit challenging due to the possibility of an independent temperament. However, there are tricks to teach your Japeke dog to come. The key is your total relationship with your dog, and making it rewarding for him to come to you.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 20-foot training leash
• 6-foot leash
• Flat buckle collar or harness
• Treats
• Toys

1. The first rule is never to call your dog to you for punishment. This is never fair to a dog. Like any dog, your Japeke must associate coming to you with affection, praise and rewards. Start out by calling him to come for his meal, for treats, for playtime and for lots of praise. This should be started as soon as you get him, even if he is just a little puppy. Use his name and an encouraging tone: Fluffy, COME!

2. Teaching your Japeke different obedience commands and even tricks will keep him paying attention to you and looking to you for guidance. If you have a good bond with your puppy and he understands you are his Supreme Being, he is much more likely to come when you call his name. For a refresher course, every dog and owner can benefit from obedience classes. They are cheap, they are fun and you will both learn.

3. You should find that your Japeke will become quite reliable about coming when called in your home once he realizes that good things happen when he comes to you. But overcoming distractions around other people and dogs, or outside your home, can be another matter. Have him wearing a leash attached to his collar and harness, and call him when he is distracted. If he doesn't come right away, don't scold him and don't keep calling him. Instead, gently pull him to you with the leash and praise him or give him a treat when he is by your side.

4. If your Japeke is off leash and does not come when called, try running away from him. Even if he is playing a game by running away from you, it's unlikely you can catch him. So turn the tables and play the game by your rules. Make him chase you! Most dogs will follow you when you move away. Even if you are frustrated, always praise him for coming to you since he finally did what you asked.

5. When calling your Japeke, kneel down, open your arms and use a happy and welcoming tone of voice. Dogs respond very much to body language and willingly come to you if your stance is welcoming and non threatening.

Tips & Warnings

• If you use treats for training, make them the best treats ever, something that your Japeke loves and only gets for training.
• Don't call your Japeke to you for punishment, only for praise.