How to train your dog to come when called?

Teaching your dog to come when called is an important part of their training. Not only is it a useful command to have in everyday situations, but it can also be a lifesaver in emergency situations. Here are some tips for training your dog to come when called:

Choose a command

First, decide on a specific word or phrase that you will use as the command for your dog to come to you. “Come,” “here,” or “to me” are all common choices. It’s important to choose a command and stick to it consistently so that your dog knows what to expect.

It’s also important to choose a command that is not used in everyday conversation. If you use a word or phrase that is commonly used in conversation, your dog may become confused and may not know when you are giving them the command to come to you.

For example, if you use “come here” as the command for your dog to come to you, they may become confused when you say “come here” in everyday conversation.

Use positive reinforcement

Training with positive reinforcement is the most effective way to teach your dog to come when called. This means rewarding your dog with treats, praise, or toys every time they come to you when called. By doing this consistently, your dog will learn to associate the command with the reward and will be more likely to come to you when called.
You can read our full article about The Benefits of Using Positive Reinforcement in Dog Training

Practice in different environments

It’s important to practice the come command in a variety of environments. This will help your dog learn to respond to the command no matter where they are. Start by practicing in your home, then move to a quiet outdoor area, and gradually work up to more challenging environments, such as a park or a busy street.

Be patient

Training your dog to come when called can take time and patience. Don’t get frustrated if your dog doesn’t respond immediately. Keep your training sessions short and fun, and remember to reward your dog every time they come to you when called.

If you become frustrated or angry with your dog, they will become anxious and may become less responsive to the command.

Make it fun

Your dog is more likely to respond to the come command if they enjoy coming to you. Make sure to include plenty of rewards and praise when they do come to you, and make the experience fun and enjoyable for them.