There are so many important commands for your dog to learn, but the most important is 鈥渃ome.鈥澛�It only takes a second for even the most well-behaved dog to see a squirrel and dart into traffic. A strong recall can be the difference between life and death.
Start with your dog on a leash walking at your side (it鈥檚 easier to get her to come to you when she鈥檚 already moving). Then, take a quick step back and say your pooch鈥檚 name, followed by 鈥淐ome!鈥� As you鈥檙e saying this, pull gently on the leash to turn her around and have her start heading toward you. Once she鈥檚 facing you, continue to walk backward, coaxing her toward you. If she needs gentle urging, use the leash. Never scold her for coming too slowly. You can make this fun for both of you by approaching it with enthusiasm, as if you were playing a game. Don鈥檛 ask her to come in an angry voice or when you鈥檙e mad, or she鈥檒l start associating the command with negativity. Reward her when she comes with a treat (it helps to offer something extra special and/or continue to give bits of treats for a full 30 seconds to teach your dog how much of a reward he gets by following this command).
Dogs learn that performing commands is often a gamble. They may get a treat as a reward, they may get praise, or they may get nothing. Ensure your dog will listen to you when call 鈥渃ome鈥� by letting him know that the command always means a big reward. That means not using the command when you want your dog to follow you into the bedroom (unless you plan on offering treats and lavish praise). Use a different command for a casual in-house recall, like 鈥渙ver here鈥� or 鈥減lace.鈥� Break out the 鈥渃ome鈥� only to practice and when it鈥檚 really needed.
Tips for Responsible Dog Owners
This e-book is a great resource for anyone considering dog ownership or already owns a dog. Download for tips on how to be a responsible dog owner.