One of the most frustrating things to happen as a dog owner is for you to call their name…and ignore you. Especially embarrassing when it happens in public, right? Well if you’re dog doesn’t come when called – every time – then here are some tips…
Don’t say your dogs name in front of them unless you are talking to them
But here is the big one:
No free food; Your dog needs to know that all their FOOD, FUN, FREEDOM comes from you.
This tip especially will help you convey to your dog that you are their leader. Many people will also use the term “Pack Leader”. I think the term leader describes the position well enough.
If your dog doesn’t see YOU as the leader of the pack… they may think that THEY ARE the one in charge!
Dogs much like people prefer to follow calm, confident, capable leaders.
In the Animal world, the leader always eats first, they decide what is a threat, and what behavior is or is not acceptable. In the human world the leader goes first through doors, people will move out of the way of the leader and people often show non-verbal signs of respect. In both humans and animals the group LISTENS to the leader.
So how you handle your dogs food matters, remember no free food AND in your dog’s mind, the pack leader is ALWAYS the one who eats first.
The way you deal with “danger” … aka potential threats, like dogs, animals, even other humans. The leader is the one who deals with the threat. The leader doesn’t let the group go into battle before them, the leader goes first and takes care of things. This can even be as simple as going through a door… The leader goes first, anyone else who tries to go before the leader could be a challenge or threat.
Once your dog learns you are the leader, life will be much easier and you will be able to simply call their name and they will be more inclined to follow your lead.