Dog Training

Lesson 2: Lesson Two: Building on Lesson One

Come When Called with Distractions, Heeling Off-leash

Come When Called with Distractions

By now, your pup should understand what coming when called is all about. We now have to make it a little harder by providing distractions and getting the dog to come in spite of them.

Toys make a good distraction. Use anything (other than food) that the dog likes but not something he's too crazy about to start. Put the objects in sight, but not too close in the beginning. Call him and if he goes to the distraction, show him the treat you have. You may have to put it right up to his nose to get his attention. When you have his interest, back up a little before you give him the treat.

As he learns to ignore distractions, make it harder by moving the objects closer to him.

Heeling Off-leash First

This may seem backwards, but teaching the dog to heel off-leash is sometimes easier than teaching on-leash. It won't be pretty, but if the puppy or dog learns off-leash first, it will make more sense to him. Ignore the fact that your dog may be jumping up and acting silly. Just move faster if he is jumping. That will make it harder for him to jump.

Show them that you have the treat or toy. Get the dog to your left side and take a few steps while telling him to heel. Don't try to go too far. A few steps is fine. Immediately use your release word and praise and reward. Gradually go a few more steps at a time until the dog can move at your side for a circle of about 20 feet.

You can add a sit with the recall (coming when called) at this time. Before you reward the dog with the treat or toy, sometimes ask for a sit first. The goal is to program the dog to sit in front of you when he comes to you.

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