Pet Training Tips

Teaching Dogs the "Come" Command

Coming when called is not only a behavior issue, it's also a safety issue.

If your dog slips out the front door and races down across the yard, you must be able to get him to stop and come back before he runs into the street.

Don't tell your dog to "come" if you don't think he'll comply. It's better to go and get him than to say "come" repeatedly. Practice the "come" command until you are sure your dog will respond immediately the first time you call.

Method 1: Back Up and Recall

You can practice this method in the house or while out on a walk with your dog.

• Put your dog on a leash.
• Hold the other end of the leash, say "come" once, and quickly move backward.
• Keep moving backward until your dog gets all the way to you.
• When your dog catches up to you, say "Yes!"
• Give your dog a treat.

Tip

The Back Up and Recall is a good way to teach your dog not to pull on his leash when you take a walk.

Each time he starts to pull, say "come," and move backward until your dog gets to you. Say "Yes!" and reward him with a treat.

You may spend much of your first few walks going backward, but it won't take long for your dog to learn that he must pay attention to where you are going instead of choosing his own path and speed.

Method 2: Long Line

You can also practice "come" outside using a long (20-foot) training leash. The long leash makes it easy to catch your dog if he gets distracted and wants to wander around the yard. You will need the help of another person.

• Attach the long training leash to your dog's collar.
• Your assistant should stand behind your dog and hold him by lacing her hands across his chest. 
• Get your dog's attention by holding a treat in front of his nose and talking to him in an excited voice.
• Run away a few feet then call your dog to "come." Encourage him by clapping your hands or making noises but don't repeat the "come" command.
• When your dog runs to you, say "Yes!"
• Give him a treat.

As he gets better at "come," run farther away before you call him.

Tip

As your dog learns "come," practice inside (a leash isn't necessary) by having your assistant distract or hold your dog while you go out of the room. Call your dog to "come." When he finds you, say "Yes!" and give him a treat. Over time you can make this game more difficult, by moving to more distant rooms of the house before you call "come."

Tips to Prevent Boredom-Related Barking

• Take your dog for two or three walks per day; family members, trusted neighbors, or professional dogwalkers can help during the workday.
• Allow your dog least five opportunities to relieve him- or herself during a day.
• Provide plenty of chew toys; rotate them and provide new ones.
• Give your dog a toy that can be filled with treats; working to get the treats out will provide mental and physical stimulation.
• Agility and flyball courses are fun and a great outlet for a dog’s energy.
• Barking at intruders or frightening noises is a natural behavior for dogs and should not be totally forbidden. 

Tips to Prevent Excessive Barking at Strangers or Noises

• Take your dog out daily to interact and socialize with other people. Praise him or her for friendliness.
• When people visit your house, give your dog a treat or toy so that he or she associates guests with something positive.
• When something frightens your dog, encourage him or her to sit, lie down, or play with a toy.

A humane dog trainer or certified behaviorist will be able to provide more tips on desensitizing your dog to frightening sounds. If your dog’s situation is severe, the behaviorist may suggest that you consider consulting your veterinarian about anti-anxiety medications that can help calm your dog.

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