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Training Your Pet To Come To You When Called
http://www.iheartpaws.com/articles/114/1/Training-Your-Pet-To-Come-To-You-When-Called/Page1.html
Gladys Avery
 
By Gladys Avery
Published on 08/7/2007
 
Certain commands are essential for dogs to learn. Most trainers call these "basic" commands. In this article, learn how to teach your dog to obey the "come" command.

Training Your Pet To Come To You When Called
One training command any dog needs to learn is the command "come". This not only instills recognition of your authority, but it is also meant for your dog's safety and guidance. Numerous dogs are impounded every year for running off away from home and some even get run over by vehicles while crossing the street. It is always advisable to teach this command to your animal when they are puppies. If your pooch is an adult, it may be a little more difficult, but it is still possible.

Either way, you need to reset your patience meter and focus on positive reinforcement during the training of your pet. It is best to get rid of your shouting voice and practice on a soothing tone. At this point, it is easy to assume that your dog probably runs off away from you as soon as you open the door. They think it is a game. Getting mad at your dog or scaring him by yelling at him will only teach your dog that the "come" command is a play-time stopper. To start, get a hold of his favorite treats, his leash and a longer tether (more that 15 ft.).

Step 1: Start in a smaller enclosed area, simply let your dog play there for a while and then after a few minutes when he is a few steps away, call his attention. As he comes to you, give him a treat and a pat on the back gently.

Repeat this a couple times and then go on to the next step. Step 2: In the same area, for a longer period of time, release your pet and allow a bit more distance between you. Call him to you. By this time he should listen to you and instead of just a treat and a pat, shower him with praises, "good boy…" "That's my dog…" After the positive reinforcement, signal that he can go on playing.

Step 3: In the next session, repeat step 2, but this time gently put the leash on his collar and take him for a short walk around the area. Repeat this until he gets used to the idea.

Step 4: Take the long tether and attach it to your dog's leash. By this time, your dog will be only too happy to be led outside by you. Armed with treats, throw some treats a short distance in front of you and then call him back to you. Use the long leash to draw him back and of course follow-up with praise. Slowly ease out the treat giving, and give it to him only after a set of tasks is done. The absence of treats will eventually enable your pet to learn that the praise is the reward.

Always remember that exercise and training must be kept fun and simple. Use a relaxed way of teaching, rigid teaching instills fear and creates motivated reactions. Positive training allows your dog learn the skill and retain it.

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