by Ashley McErlean

Created on: November 26, 2008   Last Updated: December 27, 2010

There is nothing more frustrating to you as a pet owner than telling your dog to "Come here!" over and over and over again while he sits there and stares at you. Teaching a dog to come when called seems like it should be easy, but it can be the hardest command to teach.

The most important thing to remember is that coming to you should never be a bad thing. If you call your dog to you in order to punish him or confine him, he will learn very quickly that it is not in his best interest to obey. Even calling him to you to give him medicine will discourage obedience. If you must punish or medicate your dog, go to him to do it. To confine him, put him on a leash and lead him where you want him to go. When you command your dog to come to you, make sure he's happy when he gets there. Praise him, and in the beginning, give him a treat when he obeys.

If your dog is ignoring you when you call, do not chase him! Dogs think it's great fun when you chase them, and they will continue to run away as long as you're still chasing. Instead, try running away from your dog. Often, he will think this is a game and will chase you. You can also try sitting down with your back to him or laying down on the floor. Your dog will probably approach you to find out what's up.

So how do you teach your dog to come when you call? Start off with your dog on a long leash. Have him sit, then walk in front of him. Call him to you with his name and whatever word you are using as your "come" command. If he obeys, reward him with a tasty treat, then back up and do it again. If he doesn't listen, start reeling in the leash gently - don't tug. Keep repeating the command, and feed him a treat when he reaches you. Back up and try again.

As with any training, repetition will garner results, so keep working with your dog and he will eventually learn to come when called.

Learn more about this author, Ashley McErlean.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.