Friday, October 31, 2008

How to Teach Your Dog to Come and When to Say No!

By Joel Silverman

Once you have created a loving relationship with your best friend, teaching him to "Come" when you call can be a fairly simple behavioral implementation. Knowing that he will obey this command will build confidence in the knowledge that you have control over his behaviorthis is imperative in your relationship.

Your dog desperately needs your guidance in learning the "Come" command. However, if he has had a history of bad training, this can lead to him having negative reactions. This is where your relationship with him enters inonce he trusts you and you have bonded, the problem can be easily overcome.

Using a long line attached to your dog's collar is the quickest way to teach him to obey the "Come" command. You will be in complete control of his behavior and it won't matter whether he is four feet away or 14 feethe must "Come" when you call. As the line is dragged along the surface, say his name and follow it up with "Come." If he doesn't obey (as he probably won't the first few times), just give a quick tug on the line. Be gentle, he's trying to learn. Continue with this procedure until he responds immediately. At this time, you can substitute a leash for the line. Most dogs will accept this new command within a week.

Just like children, your sweet cuddly little guy needs to learn to understand the word "No." This training must be consistently used with gentle correction for maximum impact. An example of utilizing this training would be to attach the long line to his collar, place a treat or food in the training area and, just prior to him reaching and gobbling up the treat, use the word "No" and gently tug the line. You will undoubtedly need to use this method until he has understood the association between the word "No" and any unwanted behavior.

Your dog will quickly learn to associate the word "No" with negative behavior and you will no longer have to depend on correcting him in order to achieve success in this area. He will show his love and trust for you by being obedient.

Incorrect behavior after training is not that uncommon. You dog could simply be confusedor he could be testing you. Just be gentle but consistent. Every dog is a bit different and will respond in a different manner to commands. Above all, keep your sessions short and exercise patience. Treat him to some free time afterwardstoss a ball, go for a long walk together, and just have fun. Give him lots of pats and praise. You will be rewarded with a bonded friendship that will last forever.

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