How to Teach Your Dog to Come

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By justind
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This is an easy, yet effective way of teaching your dog to obey the 'Come' command.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Begin by cutting a piece of string that is roughly 20 feet and tie the string to your dog's collar.
Step 2

Lead your dog outside, with most of the string wrapped around your hand, so your dog doesn't get caught up in it.
Step 3

While holding the string, let your dog wander away from you a few feet and then call your dog's name, saying 'come' at the same time.
Step 4

If your dog does not come to you, immediately tug the string (do not yank it, give it a gentle tug towards you, so you grab her attention). Repeat this step until your dog comes to you.
Step 5

After your dog comes, act as if she/he did the greatest thing in the world: pet her, give her a treat, clap your hands and tell her what a good dog she is.
Step 6

Let her wander away again, and repeat the entire process.

Tips & Warnings

Try to limit your sessions to roughly 10 minutes, otherwise your dog (especially a puppy) will get bored and distracted too much to learn sufficiently.
You must practice this with your dog a few times a day, every day, until she starts obeying on the first command every time.
Do NOT pull the string too hard. This method allows your dog to learn that it's not okay to ignore you, but it is not intended for her to be scared of you. The pulling method is designed to get her attention and to tell her that you are in control, but it is not a way for you to show your power over her. As with all training, be gentle and loving and lavishly reward your dog when she obeys.