Teach Your Dog To “COME!” – Every Time

“COME!” — The Most Important Command Your Dog Will Ever Learn,
by Pamela Brimhall

Let’s face it, dogs run away. It’s a fact. They’ll dart out the
front door the minute it’s opened, curious to explore their
world. They’ll chase other dogs, squirrels, and cats. They’ll
bolt when loud noises frighten them or aggressive dogs threaten
them; and they’ll never watch for traffic–they’ll run right
into the street.

And you’ll be standing there in dismayed silence wondering, “How
the @*!#@ am I ever going to catch him now?”

You can avoid becoming one of those dog owners who screeches at
the top of their lungs, “Here boy! “Get back here right now!”
“Here boy, here boy, here boy” while they race down the street
in hot pursuit of a happy-go-lucky runaway pooch who’s leash is
flapping wildly in the wind. Just remember this cardinal rule:
If you never teach your dog anything else, teach him to come
when you call, every time.

For many dog owners, teaching their dog to come on command can
seem a daunting task. But, if you learn a few simple guidelines,
you can be successful. Specifically, you’ll need to work with
your pet every day, teaching him to come a little at a time. For
instance, start by teaching him to come at short distances away
from you, then build up to longer distances. Along with that, be
sure he’s always on a leash when training so that you can
reinforce your commands if he becomes stubborn. You should also
offer soft, easy-to-chew doggie treats as a reward for your
dog’s obedience. And, until your dog has proven himself
trustworthy, never allow him outside without a leash–even if it
takes your pet a year, or longer, to get there.

When you’re training your pet every day, you’re establishing a
routine that, over time, will become your pet’s new “way of
life.” Similarly, as you lengthen the distance between you and
your pet, you’re establishing a “rule” that Rover must always
come to you, regardless of where you are. Then, after Rover
willingly comes to you from a considerable distance–about 30
feet–you can introduce a few distractions during your training
sessions to set him up. This will further instill the “rules” in
your pet’s mind that when you say “Come,” he must obey.

Since you’ll be training Rover on a leash during this entire
process, if he ignores you or tries to run away, you can utilize
leash corrections (short, sharp jerks or “pops” of the leash
alternating with plenty of slack in the line so that you aren’t
physically dragging Rover to you–hopefully). This form of
reinforcement is a common tool used in dog training to let your
pet know when you’re displeased with his behavior. Likewise, you
can offer him a treat when he complies to let him know you’re
pleased with him.

Furthermore, when Rover’s with you outside the confines of your
home he should remain on a leash, with you holding the other
end. Whether you’re taking out the garbage or puttering in the
garage, if he’s outside, he’s on a leash. This will prevent any
“accidental” escape scenarios that would diminish the
effectiveness of all that training you’re doing. Eventually
Rover will become convinced that his place is by your side at
all times, in all places. Even if it takes Rover a year before
you can trust him without a leash, it’s time well spent.

So even if your dog never learns another command, teaching him
to come will curb your pet’s wanderlust, and you’ll be the envy
of the neighborhood. The next time your pet bolts down the
street, you’ll be the owner who commands with confidence,
“Rover, come!” And all the neighbors will be in awe watching
your well-behaved canine friend stop on a dime and come running
home–safe and sound.

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This article is brought to you by Pamela Brimhall, Founder of
LostPetSOS.org. If your dog has run away from home, or you’ve
found someone’s pet that’s a stray, report the missing or found
pet at http://www.LostPetSOS.org, your community partner– for
the love of all animals.

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