![]() By Victoria Schade There’s nothing more frustrating than calling your dog over and over again, only to have him ignore you—or worse yet, if your dog runs away in the opposite direction. The basic steps of training a dog to come when called are straightforward, but many pet parents don’t realize just how much work goes into building a long-term, reliable recall. Add to that the fact that we can accidentally “un-train” the behavior, and you have a recipe for a very frustrating dog training scenario. The following are some typical mistakes made when trying to teach a dog to come when called. The Dog Was Punished in the Past Sometimes frustration can get the best of pet parents when a dog won’t come, which can result in the dog getting scolded, or worse yet, physically punished, when he finally does listen. Unfortunately, getting mad at your dog once he’s at your side won’t teach him what he should do; it will only make him less likely to come running to you in the future, because he knows you’ll be upset when he gets there. You want your dog to think that coming to you is a wonderful thing, so even if you’re disappointed by his less-than-speedy response, make sure to avoid scolding him when he gets to you. Then, try to set him up for success in future training sessions by making it easy for him to “win” the recall game. Always reward him with high-value dog treats like Pet Botanics Training Rewards, which have a bacon flavor that’s sure to rev up your dog’s recall responses. You Sounded Angry When You Called Your Dog If someone shouted, “Get over here NOW!” at you, would you be eager to listen? The same goes for our dogs, yet many pet parents let their tone of voice convey anger when calling their dog. A loud, mad voice will make your dog less likely to run to you since he can tell that you’re displeased. Instead, always keep your tone upbeat as you call your dog, and don’t forget to praise your dog as he starts his trip toward you. You might discover that he picks up speed when he hears that he’s doing a great job! Remember to reward your dog with a small, meaty treat every time he reaches you, particularly when you’re in a distracting environment. Switching to a novel protein, like Merrick Power Bites rabbit and sweet potato treats, will help keep your dog interested in what’s in your pocket. You Trained Your Dog to Come in Limited Environments The early training you did with your dog probably took place in a dog training facility and continued in a few rooms in your house as well as in your yard. Your dog probably became proficient at responding in those environments, which made you feel confident that your dog fully understood the recall cue. However, dogs typically don’t generalize behaviors well, which means that even though your dog was responsive in familiar environments, he might not be able to translate coming when called to brand new locations. To increase your dog’s recall “fluency” it’s important to train your dog to come when called in a variety of settings. Practice with your dog in new environments, like a friend’s fenced-in yard or community tennis courts during the off season, and then gradually expand to more distracting spaces, like the dog park. The Word “Come” Means the Fun Is Over Some dogs ignore the recall because they understand that the word “come” means that they have to leave the dog park, or stop chasing squirrels in the yard, or go into their dog crate because you’re heading to work. Consistently pairing the recall cue with something that your dog doesn’t like will result in a dog who equates the word “come” with negatives. That’s not to say that you should only use your recall word in positive situations, but you should be aware of how your dog might perceive what the word “come” means. To combat the idea that coming when called equates to the end of fun, try to do “surprise” recall practice in situations when your dog is just hanging out around the house, and reward him with a tasty treat and a quick game of tug. Or call him in from the yard, praise and reward him, then send him out to continue playing. That way your dog won’t be able to tell if the fun is truly ending or if it’s just a practice run! If you’re concerned about the number of treats you’re giving your dog, opt for a low-calorie goody like Fruitables Skinny Minis pumpkin and berry treats, which have less than five calories per treat. You Repeat the Word “Come” So Much That It’s “Verbal Wallpaper” “Fido, come” is a very different cue than “Fido, come, come, come, come on, c’mere, Fido come!” Many dogs delay responding to the recall cue because they’ve figured out that they don’t have to do it until you say it a few thousand times. Instead of having a conversation with your dog when you want him to come running, it’s better to use a single-word cue, like “come” or “here,” and then follow up with upbeat kissy noises, whistling or hand clapping to encourage him along. Plus, it’s important to continue to reward your dog with a high-value treat, like Crazy Dog Train Me! Minis, for longer than you might think is necessary. Keep in mind that racing to you, particularly when your dog is hanging out with a canine buddy or a enjoying a good smell, is huge compliment. It makes sense to pay your dog for a job well done!
68 Comments
1/5/2019 09:08:29 pm
My family and I always had a dog. Even before I was born, my parents would always have a dog in our house. I do not know why, but they just really like having a dog around. Which is why I have grown fond of them myself. It is interesting to learn that there is a biological and scientific reason for this activity you mentioned. I honestly thought that dogs just respond to their masters, I have never been more wrong in my life.
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2/1/2021 01:56:40 am
That’s why you need to always lug the mobile grill for Recreational Vehicle camping. From our experience, it’s a whole lot more enjoyable to cook outside than to climb into a warm RV a couple of hours before dinnertime to crank up the cooktop and/or stove
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Dr Andi
1/12/2019 10:05:18 am
Dogs are amazing smart and complicated. They want to make their owners happy, but often the way we communicate is confusing or inconsistent to them. By thinking through the messages we are sending our dogs, we earn their trust and obedience.
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12/4/2019 04:03:38 am
It is how many people can work on dog care like this suggestion. Thanks for your case. I will be back with review.
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Evan Young
12/12/2019 06:38:42 am
Great blog... Victoria.
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12/17/2019 12:38:57 pm
Hey There. I found your blog using msn. This is a very well written article. I’ll be sure to bookmark it and come back to read more of your useful info. Thanks for the post. I’ll definitely return.
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12/22/2019 12:17:13 am
The fact that the Sphynx is a hairless cat is only a small part of why we are Sphynx lovers. Sphynx cats and Sphynx kittens have very unique personalities. I really do not consider myself an owner of Sphynx cats, because really, my Sphynx cats and Sphynx kittens own me! Sphynx cats and Sphynx kittens love their owners unconditionally. The Sphynx has so much love to give and is willing to love anyone that will allow them into their lives.
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12/24/2019 01:27:05 am
If you have a large un-leashed dog approaching you and your small leashed dogs, I'm not sure which dogs the horn will terrify most.
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12/28/2019 05:05:08 am
The fact that the Sphynx is a hairless cat is only a small part of why we are Sphynx lovers. Sphynx cats and Sphynx kittens have very unique personalities. I really do not consider myself an owner of Sphynx cats, because really, my Sphynx cats and Sphynx kittens own me! Sphynx cats and Sphynx kittens love their owners unconditionally. The Sphynx has so much love to give and is willing to love anyone that will allow them into their lives.
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3/18/2020 10:16:43 am
From last minute back to school until the start of the Christmas holiday shopping season
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3/31/2020 03:17:14 am
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4/2/2020 10:19:40 am
These portobello pups are just too cute and they sound delicious. I’d take a grilled mushroom dog than a mystery meat hot dog any day. Can’t wait to try this!
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4/12/2020 05:12:47 am
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4/22/2020 08:25:02 am
Love this post. I have kids and a dog.. and on top of that I am interior designer that is OCD! But my puppy needs to be inside and be a part of the family. Hence no white linen sofa.
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4/22/2020 09:40:54 am
Wonderful!!!! My husband was skeptical but this changed his mind. We had to use a little gas grill so we wanted something that cooked quickly. This worked great! I didn’t have time to make pico de gallo so I drained some Rotel with the same ingredients (lime, cilantro, etc) and used it. Worked great! Thank you so much for sharing this! We WILL use it again.
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4/22/2020 09:59:56 am
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5/6/2020 02:05:14 pm
My dogs love chewing these up and they work wonders on their teeth and breath! They have pristine teeth when we do their vet checkups!
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5/12/2020 05:22:27 am
Yay, fake babies in cribs… Hm…Let I think of it thoroughly. No way cribs for fake babies only, that’s what I’ll say. And as for poutine, It isn’t hard to make. So thumbs up for all you poutine lovers, which honestly speaking I am too :-)
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I really do not consider myself an owner of Sphynx cats, because really, my Sphynx cats and Sphynx kittens own me! Sphynx cats and Sphynx kittens love their owners unconditionally. The Sphynx has so much love to give and is willing to love anyone that will allow them into their lives.
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6/24/2020 11:40:32 am
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5/16/2022 12:34:02 am
I thought I would leave my first comment. I don't know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often.
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Just came over from foodgawker an cannot believe that I'm seeing. I already had dinner and am pretty much stuffed and jolly but there'd still be room for THESE bad boys! There'd ALWAYS be room for these bad boys. I kid you not. Kinda nibbling on my screen right now.
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2/26/2021 05:55:59 am
Very nice post. You have shared really impressive information in detail. I would love to read more from you. Keep sharing.
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7/23/2021 08:42:30 am
Oh gosh I have a ton of pets lol. We have a Boxer named Loki, a new Pit/Lab mix puppy named Dee, a cat named Smoky, two rabbits, a beta fish and a gecko!
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7/24/2021 11:01:19 am
Thanks, Crystle. Well, in a way you are a mum. Dogs count in my book. They are great aren’t they? I love all animals, really. But I love my crazy little monkey daughter the most. To be clear, she’s not really a monkey, just hangs on me (which I love) like one a lot.
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Regina
8/10/2021 03:00:33 pm
How I got my ex-husband back after he left me and our children ”I suggest you read my testimony. I'm Regina Brian, I'm so excited that my husband is back after he left me for another woman. My husband had an affair with a colleague and I love my husband so much but he cheated on me with his colleague and this girl, I think, uses witchcraft or black magic on my husband to make him hate me and it was so critical and without appeal, I cry day and night for God to send me help to bring my husband back! I was really upset and needed help, so I looked for help online and came across a website that suggested that Dr. Sunny could help find her husband quickly. So I felt like I had to give it a try. I contacted him and he told me what to do and I did it, and then he made a love spell for me. 48 hours later, my husband really called me and said I miss him so much, oh my god! I was so happy, and today I am happy with my man again and we are living happily together and I thank the powerful caster DR SUNNY, he is so powerful and I decided to share my story here. if you are here and your lover refuses you or your husband moves to another woman, don't cry anymore, contact DR SUNNY for help now. Here is his contact, Send him an email drsunnydsolution1@gmail.com You can also WhatsApp at +2348082943805
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9/11/2021 10:01:36 pm
Love the addition of the soft furnishings mention in your blog. Sometimes forgotten, we think its a beautiful way to soften this look and add a bit of texture and comfort with a few cushions and pillows.
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9/21/2021 07:59:23 am
Interesting idea, but the dog will eventually lose interest if he isn’t able to catch the hot dog once in a while. It’s the same thing with toy rope tug of war; you have to let them win sometimes.
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10/24/2021 03:27:21 am
Our first visit to these amazing, compassionate people was today, an extremely sad day. We are new to the area, with an old, sick kitty. They took us in with kind, professional, compassion. So kind in the way they helped our furry child pass to a better place. I recommend them to everyone.
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11/23/2021 05:41:08 am
I respect this article for the all around scrutinized content and superb wording. I got so included in this material that I couldn't quit perusing. I am inspired with your work and expertise. Much thanks to you to such an extent
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11/29/2021 09:57:22 am
So, training is really essential which helps a pet to understand certain signs and sounds developed by the owner. Such training helps to improve the way of living of a pet.
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11/30/2021 07:07:20 am
Most people in lieu of adopting a pet will not adopt a starving child, or divert every disposable dollar to children’s charities. But, it makes a huge difference to the life of that one adopted animal to come to a loving home.
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12/8/2021 08:31:18 am
Thank all of you for being you and being there for us and our pets. You are loved and appreciated more than you. Please stay safe.
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12/11/2021 08:56:07 am
Now I wish I had a Shaggy dog that could lead me to some place to take Frenchie a nap. Do you suppose people would object if I just wore a shaggy coat and popped into their back yard…
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12/14/2021 07:29:47 am
Some days can be so overwhelming, though, that we must practice focusing our minds on Him that our hearts not be led astray. This is where the Word comes in.” I couldn’t agree more! When my time in the Word is lacking, every area of my life suffers.
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12/20/2021 05:59:05 am
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1/5/2022 08:17:56 am
The egg carton is a great idea! I have a growing collection of vintage ornaments, I think I managed to pack them all away safely but I'll have to remember the egg carton trick for next year.
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1/20/2022 06:02:10 am
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2/25/2022 02:25:32 am
Very informative blog. Keep up with good work.
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2/26/2022 08:04:17 am
Possibly the most ignored and understated tip is your pet may need sunscreen just as much as you! Most light haired pets and those with very short haircuts need skin protection against the suns harmful rays.
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3/3/2022 02:30:31 am
Awesome post, extremely enlightening. I can't help thinking about why different specialists of this area don't see this. You should proceed with your composition. I'm certain, you've an incredible perusers' base as of now!
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3/4/2022 11:12:35 am
I want to thanks for your time for this wonderful Article!! I definitely enjoying every little bit of it and I have you bookmarked to check out new stuff you blog post
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3/8/2022 09:47:11 am
Most people in lieu of adopting a pet will not adopt a starving child, or divert every disposable dollar to children’s charities.
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4/16/2022 10:30:34 am
I really do not consider myself an owner of Sphynx cats, because really, my Sphynx cats and Sphynx kittens own me! Sphynx cats and Sphynx kittens love their owners unconditionally.
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4/21/2022 08:30:01 am
Awesome post, extremely enlightening. I can't help thinking about why different specialists of this area don't see this. You should proceed with your composition. I'm certain, you've an incredible perusers' base as of now!
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4/23/2022 12:00:25 pm
Love your article, very well-written! I have been reading posts regarding this topic and this post is one of the most interesting and informative one I have read. Thank you for this
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5/3/2022 06:08:25 am
It is a great blog post.I am always read your blog helpful and informative tips. I like it thanks for sharing this information with us
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5/15/2022 04:23:02 am
I really do not consider myself an owner of Sphynx cats, because really, my Sphynx cats and Sphynx kittens own me! Sphynx cats and Sphynx kittens love their owners unconditionally.
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5/17/2022 12:12:30 pm
I like the idea of not even bringing the dangerous foods along.
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6/5/2022 08:48:23 am
Hi, I find reading this article a joy. It is extremely helpful and interesting and very much looking forward to reading more of your work…
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6/5/2022 10:02:45 am
It's a good post .. keep posting and updating information.
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wendy
6/8/2022 05:19:07 pm
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6/8/2022 09:52:23 am
I like the part where you say you are doing this to give back but I would assume by all the comments that this is working for you as well.
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wendy
6/8/2022 05:18:14 pm
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6/20/2022 09:26:51 am
You have a good point here!I totally agree with what you have said!!Thanks for sharing your views...hope more people will read this article!!!
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