Mastering the “Come” Command: A Comprehensive Guide from Western States K-9 College Dog Trainers School

Introduction:

For dog owners, one of the most common aspirations is having their furry friend respond reliably to the "come" command. At Western States K-9 College Dog Trainers School, we understand the importance of a strong connection between a dog and its owner. In this blog post, we will delve into the true meaning of the "come" command and provide a step-by-step guide to achieving a foolproof recall.

Understanding the True Meaning of "Come":

Many dog owners associate the "come" command with specific situations, such as calling their dog into the house from the yard or preventing them from chasing after other animals. However, the essence of the "come" command goes beyond these scenarios. The goal is to establish a continuous connection with your dog, ensuring that they naturally gravitate towards you in any environment.

Building a Connection:

To achieve a reliable "come" command, you must establish a genuine connection with your dog. This connection is not solely about using a leash but creating a bond that makes your dog want to be with you. Begin by attaching a regular collar and leash to your dog, avoiding correction collars. Connect the leash to yourself using a carabiner, allowing your dog to experience your daily activities. Over time, your dog's life becomes intertwined with yours, and the leash serves as a guide to reinforce this connection.

Drag Leash Training:

Initially, let your dog drag the leash while attached to you, ensuring they adapt to the connection. If your dog chooses to leave you, the leash goes back on for a specified period. The leash is gradually dropped for dragging once your dog consistently stays with you without asking questions. This process helps your dog understand that staying close to you is the expected behavior.

Transitioning to Off-Leash:

After successful dragging leash training, your dog can graduate to off-leash activities indoors. However, if they choose to leave your side, the leash goes back on for further reinforcement. This step-by-step approach ensures that your dog learns to stay with you in various environments.

Environmental Presentations:

When your dog is outside and unaware of your entrance into the environment, the "come" command is introduced. Without calling your dog's name, present yourself to their environment. If your dog fails to come to you immediately, pick up the leash and guide them inside without verbal commands. This test helps determine if your dog is ready for off-leash activities.

Wandering Instead of Walking:

Incorporate daily wandering sessions instead of traditional walks. This approach allows your dog to explore and experience distractions while practicing staying close to you. You can request detailed wandering instructions from our trainers.

Commitment and Consistency:

The key to success lies in your commitment and consistency. Crate training may be necessary if your dog is not already accustomed to it. Additionally, daily wandering sessions and dragging the leash in different environments are crucial elements of the training plan.

Conclusion:

At Western States K-9 College Dog Trainers School, we believe that the "come" command is not just about recalling your dog; it's about establishing an unbreakable connection. Through commitment, consistency, and a step-by-step training approach, you can achieve a dog that responds to the "come" command 100% of the time. Dog training is a journey, and the rewards of having your loyal companion by your side in any situation make every moment worthwhile.