What to Do if Your Dog Won’t Come When Called
In the last five years, 15% of pet owners reported that they’d lost a cat or a dog.
But, how can you make sure that your dog isn’t amongst this statistic? Strict training is one of the best ways to ensure your dog always comes back.
In this article, we’ll teach you a few things you can do if your dog won’t come when called. Let’s take a look:
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Figure Out Which Treats and Toys Your Dog Responds Best to
Before you even start your training, you need to figure out the best way to praise your dog.
Having something highly desirable to reward them with will encourage good behavior.
If you have a breed which is highly driven by food, such as a Golden Retriever or Labrador, this is the obvious choice!
However, if your pet is a greyhound or whippet, they may be less motivated in regular dog treats. Figure out whether they respond best to play, furry toys or smelly, meaty treats.
- Must See – How to Tackle a Dog Who Doesn’t Eat Dog Food
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Teach Your Dog to Come Back on the Leash
Firstly, if your dog won’t come when called, then don’t let it off the leash while walking until you’re absolutely sure that it will.
Practice makes perfect in all aspects of life, especially when it comes to training a dog. You’ll also need to practice patience during this process.
Purchase a long leash. When you’re outside and your dog is wandering around in its own world, tell it to “come”.
Then, move away from the dog until it has reached you. In fact, running away from your dog will make it hard for them to resist chasing you. But, remember to practice calling them while you’re stood still too.
If your dog comes back, reward it highly with its favorite treat, lots of fuss and verbal praise. Repeat this process until your dog comes back the first time. Never hit or scold your dog. It will not understand why it is being punished.
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Teach Your Dog in the House
While your dog is in another room and distracted, call its name and shout: “come!”
If your leash training has worked well, your dog should also respond to this command in the house.
It’s important that your dog gets used to following your command in many different environments.
But, if you’re worried that your dog will escape your garden without you noticing, there are ways to keep them in. For example, check your fence is secure or consider an electric dog fence.
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Practice in an Enclosed, Unfamiliar Space Such as a Dog Park
When your dog proves to be excelling at the command both in the house and in your yard, find an unfamiliar and enclosed place to practice.
Allow your dog a few minutes to explore before calling them back. If they can excel at this on multiple occasions, your dog may be ready to go off the lead on long walks in the countryside.
If not, keep practicing! This takes time, especially when surrounded by new friends.
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Praise Your Dog When it Comes to You
Even when you’re not practicing or you’re sure your dog has the hang of the command, you should always praise them and reinforce that you’re happy to see them whenever they “check in” with you.
For example, if your dog comes back to you during a walk or even in the house, you should encourage this behavior highly.
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Don’t Call Your Dog Too Often
If you’re always calling your dog to come back, they will eventually tune you out.
Only call your dog during practices and when it’s crucial they return.
Still Worried That Your Dog Won’t Come When Called?
Remember, it’s essential that your pooch is microchipped. This way, if your dog won’t come when called and disappears, it can be returned to you easily!
Want more tips on how to train your precious pooch? Check out our dedicated blog post!
