What do You Say? Part 2

keep then safe!

The words you use to train your dog are totally up to you.  After all, the most important reason for training is to keep our beloved dogs safe.  Your dog having an understanding of what you mean (and following through) is all that matters.  

For example, what command do you use for the informal recall?  Some say “come”, “here”, “now”, etc. No matter what command you use, your dog should run to you urgently, sit, look, and not move until he is released from the exercise.  

I like the word “front”.   Why, you may ask?  It means “front and center”, it’s a strong word, and not many people will be using it when they are speaking with my dog.  I can also make the word sound sharp without sounding angry.  I believe that training the dog to the tone of the word is as important as training to the word itself, especially with the recall.

I create urgency when teaching the command and I work hard to make sure my dog responds urgently for the rest of his life (sometimes a challenge).  Some people say “come”, but I caution against using “come” as your urgent, life-saving command.  The reason being, when a friend or family member enters your home and wants to interact with your dog they will say “come” in a happy, singing tone of voice.  

Chances are that your dog may respond by sauntering over casually, not sitting, and start to be petted without the ending that you have worked hard to achieve.  This will weaken your “come” command, because your dog will learn that responding urgently is not longer important.  

Don’t get me wrong, I will still say “come” and similar other similar commands, but I do not expect the urgency, sit look, and waiting to be released.  It’s a more casual type of command. Having a special word (that other people won’t mess up) is strongly recommended in order to achieve a reliable recall.  

In my opinion, the recall is the MOST important thing you can teach your dog!  If you need help teaching your dog a solid, reliable recall, call to set up an appointment.  Over the years Royal Canine Dog Training LLC helped thousands achieve their goals!

So I ask, what do you say?

video-Ronan-park

Stacie & Ronan