by V.L. Holme

Created on: November 26, 2008   Last Updated: December 23, 2008

"Max. Max! Come here right now!" And he runs with tail wagging for the road.

Max doesn't understand what you want when you only use his name, nor does he understand what the word "come" means until you teach him. A dog who won't respond when called is a safety issue.

If your dog doesn't come when called, try the following techniques to keep your dog safe and keep your sanity.

Recall Exercise

Duration: 5 to 10 minutes, 2 to 3 times per day

1. Put your dog on a leash at home.

2. When he's turned away, call his name followed by "come" in an excited tone. You may tap your knees, or step backwards for encouragement.

Use the silly voice, make the goofy face! The more animated you are the better, but don't cause a flurry of overexcitement in your pooch.

3. If your dog comes to you, praise he/she with lots of encouragement. Yay, you've done it!

4. If your dog does not come to you, tug on the leash lightly so that he turns and looks at you. Back up a few steps so he has a moving target.

Dogs will get bored quickly if you are always standing still.

If he runs, do not chase. This is no time for a game of twister!

Do not sound angry, but stay in an excited, happy tone of voice.

5. Try this 5 to 6 times in a row.

When your dog understands the command, move your lessons outside using a lead of about 20 feet. Then eventually practice off leash somewhere safe.

Puppy Ping Pong

No, you will not require a table and a paddle for this game. You will need at least two people and some small treats to be used on occasion.

1. Use a leash, if desired.

2. Take turns with a partner clearly calling your dog's name followed by the word "come".

You want your dog to learn what "come" means as opposed to just repeating their name.

3. Try this game at longer and longer distances outside.

Create a moving target and your dog will be having too much fun to notice the lesson. In fact, this could be a combination dog training/weight loss challenge.

Eventually your dog will come to you before you tug the leash. Success! Now what to do about that drooling?

www.recalldogtraining.com

References:

www.doglogic.com

www.dogs.about.com

www.freedogtraininginfo.com

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