This is by far the most important command you can teach your dog. It is also a difficult one under certain circumstance (dog being distracted by other dogs and outside influences).
Lets start with the basics first:
When you have your new football sized mastiff (or whatever you've got) - any puppy will do :)
Get your new pooch into a quiet area and place it on the other side of the room. Squat down and open your arms wide to grab it's attention by using an excited voice and saying "Come". Begin praising the dog immediately. "Oh what a good girl/boy" The little guy won't be able to resist if you raise such a fuss. Reward it with a scratch or pat and cuddle. Do this a few times a day. Repetition is the key. A nice food reward helps encourage the behavior.
** NEVER ** yell at the dog or scare it when attempting to get it to come. Make only positive memories of your encounter. A large problem i've had with my pooch was scolding her for running off and not obey my command after she has finally responded and come to my side.
In the dogs mind she's thinking: "Why am I coming to this loser that's now mad at me? I'm outta here or better yet, next time I won't come at all!"
Don't underestimate the resolve of your dog!
This is an especially important skill for big dogs to learn.
I'll share a quick story: Bullmastiff vs. German Sheppherd
1 comment:
Well said.
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