Has Rover been ignoring you or worse, disappearing when he’s off leash? It sounds like you both may need a Come Here tune up! Below are a few reminders that are helping clients & dogs all over town.
Take 5 Minutes: Before letting Rover off leash, spend 5 minutes refreshing his memory of what “come here” means: Practice on leash first, then while he’s dragging the leash and finally, off-leash. Remember to carry good rewards like juicy chicken or steak and her favorite toy. Reward like crazy each time he comes to you…
Happy Human: Be sure you are having fun with the “come here!” game and using a friendly voice. A stern voice may not sound inviting to your dog. Be friendly and positive and reward like crazy when he does come.
Don’t Be a Nag: Call your dog once or twice and if he ignores you, do NOT keep calling him–go and get him. Then review the come here! game and don’t give him freedom until he is successful most of the time. If your dog continually ignores you while off leash, rethink how you are doing things. Your dog either need less freedom, better rewards or more fun.
Set Dog Up for Success: Be sure to set Roverina up for success by practicing come here! in an easy environment first then slowly introducing her to more and more difficult situations. For example call your dog: Inside the house, then outside in the quiet yard, then at a quiet park, and then away from her favorite toy before you try to call her away from the deer prancing by…
Drag a Leash. Get a 20′ long line and have your dog drag it so you can get him if he ignores you. You can also use a retractible leash.
Limit Off Leash Time. Your dog should be 90% reliable before you let her off leash to run on the hiking trail that smells like deer, squirrels and other creatures. Pay attention to your pup and practice calling her over and over and over. And remember to reward!
Remember: training should be fun!
Make calling your dog a game that you play with enthusiasm and treats and a toy
to help Rover have a Reliable Recall — already!