Although he learned to answer to his name when just a puppy, for some reason your dog now refuses to come to your side when called. There are few things more frustrating than trying to catch a dog who thinks it is fun to stay just out of your reach.
However, your dog being proficient in this command is important for his safety and your peace of mind – so he must learn to obey this simple command. There are several reasons why your dog may be ignoring your call.
Here is some advice to help you to have a more successful relationship with your pet.
Why Your Dog May Be Ignoring You
- Are You Consistent? Very often we ourselves may be sabotaging our own efforts. If you did not teach your dog to come under all circumstances – regardless of environment, distraction, or distance from you – then your pet may think that the command is open to interpretation. If you need to retrain the dog, keep them on a long line or retractable leash during the training. This will teach your dog that the command is never optional. We will discuss more detailed instructions below.
- Does He Think His Good Time is Over? If your dog associates the “Come!” command with an end to playtime, he may resist compliance. After all, why answer you if that means he has to come back inside? You can dissolve this association by giving him his favorite treat on occasion, then sending him back to play. The idea is to get him to listen to you 100% of the time, not to always signal an end to his fun.
- Do You Only Call Him For Unpleasant Things? If your dog has free rein most of the time, but is only told to “Come!” when he needs medicine or is going into his crate for the day, he will learn quickly to run in the opposite direction. If the “Come!” command is always colored with negativity, you may never successfully get him to answer. As above, be sure to mix in some pleasurable experiences.
Teaching Your Dog to Come When Called
This is one method which may help you to train your dog. If you have had success with other methods based on your dog’s personality, do what works!
- Start with a six foot leash. When your dog is interested in something, call him and run backward, offering a treat. Be upbeat and positive.
- When he both comes at your command, and sits waiting for his treat, grab him by his collar and reward him.
- Continue until your dog completes this sequence perfectly every time, in a variety of situations.
- Graduate to a much longer leash, and add distractions.
- When your dog is performing at 100% on a leash, remove the leash and repeat the process off-leash until your dog comes to you every time.
Remember to always be positive and upbeat with your dog, to make eye contact and to praise them for their obedience. The easiest way to ensure that your dog is happy to come to you when called is to create a strong bond with him. When your dog shares a special connection with you, he will be excited that you are calling him to your side.
If you are having difficulty training your dog for this or any other command, professional dog training may be your answer. The experts at Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training provide professional training, obedience training, puppy training and more. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
