How to Train Your Dog to Come Back When Called
This is one of the most important commands of all when it comes to dog training! And even if you think you have a very stubborn pet, you can train them to do this. The first lesson for you, as the owner, is to understand that dogs are "pack" animals. That means they "follow the leader".
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Instructions
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Avoid walking or running towards your dog when you are trying to get her to come to you. This will usually spook her and make her want to go the opposite direction. Instead, get her attention (call her name, whistle or clap), then turn your back to her and start going away from her. Then turn your face back and look at her .... and call to her, in a very upbeat, happy voice (don't yell, that doesn't work). Keep going away from her, and encourage her to follow. With the "pack", this is the way it works. She will think you are leading her into something really fun or interesting! It may sound odd, but it works. You are the pack leader ... and she needs to learn to follow. (words from Cesar Millan, the Dog Whisperer).
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Try crouching or squatting down on your knees (still with your back to him), if your dog is still not responding. This will put you more on his level, and encourage him to move towards you. You don't want him to feel like he is going to be punished when he does come to you. Again, think about the leader of the pack. They move forward, away from the pack, and the pack follows them.
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Training in your yard on a regular basis will take you and your dog to the next level. Use a very long leash, so your dog has the freedom to wander away from you. Put your sliced hot dogs in a baggie, or something you can tuck in your pocket. Let her walk away from you ... then call her name and say HERE! (phonetically it should sound like HEE-YER!) Remember, all upbeat! Happy voice! If she does not respond, pop the leash a bit to give a slight tug on her collar to get her attention, then repeat the command.
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Give your dog a treat every time he follows your command. Repeat this four or five times successfully, then take a break. During this process you should not have to be walking away from him as mentioned in the first steps ... just remember to refrain from moving towards your dog aggressively. He will learn now to come when you are facing him. Stand firm, choose a hand gesture if you like (like bringing your fist up to your chest when you say HERE!). Always praise for good behavior.
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Understand that repetition is key! Use this training method several times a day, if you have the time, until your dog is responding regularly. Keep the pack leader mentality in mind always. If she is off leash, and very distracted by something, or in a dangerous situation, you may have to go back to the "walking or jogging away from her" method to really get her attention. Just always keep your voice upbeat, and always give her a reward when she obeys.
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Tips & Warnings
Have patience. All dogs are different, and some will take longer than others to train.
Feed your dog lightly while you are having training sessions. Then those hot dogs will be more tempting!
- Photo Credit terrierman.com
