My dog is over a year old now. For whatever reason, OK, I was intimidated by the task, I never taught my dog to come to me when I call for her.
After teaching basic commands like sit and shake, I mustered up the courage to overcome my fear of rejection or failure and teach her the ‘come’ command.
We are in the back yard. She is running around. When she runs towards me in an almost full sprint, I think to myself, “this is a good time to use the command since she’s already coming my way.”
I could have said anything else and she would’ve continued running right up to my feet and sat, but when I used the new command, she froze where she was and stared at me.
I said it again, “Piper, come!”
Then I stooped down and offered her a treat while expressing the command. She walked to me. We celebrated the success with a belly rub (and the treat, of course). I was very happy with the progress we made in the first few days.
Having treats ready for consumption was a big part of this command being taught successfully. Knowing that it takes consistency was key also. I have not broken her of her hunting rabbit instinct, but we’ll get there. For now, I’m just happy she knows “come” doesn’t mean freeze in place.
Having a dog is a learning experience for me, too, not just her. Hoping for success when delivering a command depends a lot on where I’m standing. If I’m standing near door that goes inside, she’s less likely to respond favorably.
If I’m near the fence, she’ll come to me, thinking I have a rabbit to show her or something.
Resorting to tricks works, too, but most of the time I feel bad about it.
Parenting a puppy is fun and tough. But at least now my dog will answer most of the time I call her.
Volume 1: Sharing A House With Dog.
Volume 2: Sharing A Car With Dog.
Volume 3: Sharing A Yard With Dog.
Volume 4: Sharing Problems with Dog.
Out of the Wilderness 
