Teaching your dog to come when they are called is very important, both for your convenience and their own safety. In some situations, every second counts. When you call them, they should follow the command without hesitation. The dog training team at K-9 Communication in Milford, CT, has shared a few tips for effectively and easily teaching your dog the come command.

Dog Training Experts Offer 3 Tips for Teaching the Come Command

1. Positive Association

Your dog needs to maintain a positive association for when you call them, which will make them more willing to follow the command. Keep this positive association by offering rewards like treats or belly rubs when they obey you. Try to avoid using their name or the come command to punish them, since doing this on a regular basis can change the meaning of the command for them.

2. Baby Steps

When you’re training the dog, start small and work your way up from there. It will be easier for your dog to obey you when they are alone in the house with you rather than when you’re at the park with other dogs and people around. Understand that as the environment and the challenges it presents changes, you’ll need to take a few steps back with your dog to work on their reliability.

3. Set Clear Expectations

Make a plan for what you want to teach your dog. Ideally, when you call, your dog will immediately and quickly come to you without stopping or slowing. They will come all the way to you and sit right in front of you or heel next to you. Set these expectations with your dog right away and don’t get lazy when they do; make sure they follow these expectations every time.

Dog training can be a challenge, but it’s worth the rewards for both you and your dog. Registered Master Dog Trainer Constantine “Gus” Marnel at K-9 Communication has worked in obedience training for almost 35 years and offers a lifetime training advantage, so you know the training is good for your dog’s entire life. Call (203) 874-7299 to set up a free puppy school consultation, and find out more about Gus online. You can also visit Facebook or Google+ to learn more about what he offers.