This is a handout I created years ago and have given to many clients. If you are struggling with “come”, check to see whether you are doing these things first.
Tips for Come
- Always reinforce, always with something special. Your dog’s preferences determine what is special. Maybe it’s a game of tug, maybe it’s a special treat, maybe it’s some nice neck scratches or some time to sniff a light post.
- Do not only call for possibly unpleasant events such as a bath or leaving an off leash area. Instead calmly and gently go get your dog. If there are events that are consistently unpleasant for your dog, work with a (professional, positive) trainer to work on that! Even bath time can be enjoyable with training.
- Call and release back to the activity your dog was enjoying as often as possible so that coming to you doesn’t end the current activity.
- Surprise reinforcers! – Treats around the house, extra special treats, or other unexpected fun for your dog.
- Call only once. Only call after you have your dog’s attention (I use a name cue for attention first – if they don’t look when you call their name, they probably won’t come to you). If you repeat their name or the “come” cue over and over, it will just become background noise. The word will quickly lose its meaning.
- Only call if you are sure your dog will listen. (Would you bet $50 she or he will come?) If you aren’t sure, gently go up to him to get him instead of calling and practice more.
- Teach your dog that touching their collar is a positive thing! Some dogs will mouth, nip or growl when you take their collar – if this is something your dog struggles with, work with a (professional, positive) trainer to teach this one.
