5 Tips to Make Your Dog Come When You Call Him

5 Tips to Make Your Dog Come When You Call Him

Last update: 30 April, 2018

Despite all the effort you put into training your dog, he may be disobedient when calling him. This usually happens outside your home, where you have less control over your dog. So don’t feel bad, there are always solutions. Here are some recommendations to get your dog to come when you call him. 

Tips for making your dog come when you call

get your dog to come

Positive reinforcement is always the best dog training method. It is very good method to use for things that are so fundamental as coming is. Although, keep in mind your dog may not come occasionally, at least not immediately. So take note of the following tips:

If your dog relates your call as the end of a walk or taking medication, he will most likely not come. Therefore, you must make sure he associates calling with pleasant situations, such as:

  • toys
  • treats
  • petting
  • kind words
So, when you are at the park, don’t only call him when it’s time to go home. Call him at different times and give him a treat for his good behavior.  Let him continue exploring or playing.
Don’t worry if your dog still doesn’t obey after going through a bunch of training. Here are some tips to get your dog to come whenever you call.

2- Don’t call your dog if you know he won’t

Take a good look at what your dog is doing before calling him. If his activity is more interesting than answering your call, then wait for a more ideal moment to call him.

If your canine is having fun playing with other dogs, rolling on the ground or smelling  something he detected, chances are he won’t pay any attention to you. So, wait for him to calm down or finish up with what he is doing before getting his attention.

3- Don’t get angry with your pet if he doesn’t come right away

If your pet doesn’t come immediately, don’t get angry or punish your dog. When he finally comes over, give him a treat anyway. Even though he took his time, he finally listened to you.

On the other hand, if you scold him, the only thing you will achieve is to have him associate the call with something negative and he’ll stop listening. The best thing to do is to greet him like he greets you. So, even if it’s only been a few minutes, show him how happy you are to have him by your side.

4- Don’t get upset when you call your dog

Never lose your cool or even use an angry voice when you warn your pet of some kind of danger. For example, going too far away or heading towards a road. Always call him using a friendly tone of voice, even if you’re panicking. If your dog thinks that you are nervous or angry he will probably be frightened and run further away.

Also, don’t run towards him, because he might run further away. Instead, if you run in the opposite direction, he might get start chasing after you.

5- Always use the same command to call your dog

Always use the same command

Finally, always use the same command to call your dog. “Come” or “come here” are usually the most recommended. Even though, you might find other options to be just as useful.

The important thing is to not confuse your four-legged friend. If you use different words each time you call him, he may not understand what you are asking for. Maybe that explains why he doesn’t come. 


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.