There are a few possible problems at hand when we get inquiries about dogs struggling to come when called. Some dogs haven’t fully learned “come” yet. If your dog needs to learn the skill - check out this page. Other dogs have learned that bad things happen if they come, such as boring time inside while their family leaves for work. Some dogs respond to a “Come” signal - but move at a snail’s pace. This is for you!
Rewards for A Fast Come When Called
If we want a dog to come quickly, we need them to be highly motivated. This is easier to accomplish with some dogs than others!
Food Rewards
High-value food rewards can be very helpful here. For some dogs, this will be any treat or food item. We might use plain, cooked, low-fat meat pieces for most dogs. It’s usually going to be even more special if we warm it up, making it more pungent for dogs.
All dogs are different - we might have to experiment. Maybe your dog will love canned dog food. Perhaps they like small pieces of pizza crust. Some dogs like cooked eggs and others might enjoy small pieces of super-smelly cat treats!
Another way we can increase food value is how we present the treats. One treat quietly given to a dog is not as fun as chasing pieces of treat back and forth or leaping up to catch the food. We can make the treats an event to remember rather than just a transaction.
Excitement
Increased heart rate can often increase speed. Get your dog excited before doing your ‘come when called’ training sessions. You might do this by playing fetch or tug, going for a run, or other playtime. Once your dog is more excited, then try your activities.
When your dog is more experienced, we will want them to respond quickly on the first repetition. But for now - let’s make it easier for your dog.
Rewards also need to be exciting, like chasing a toy, playing tug, or chasing a treat on your hand as you spin in a circle. Convey the excitement, speed, and joy you want to be associated with coming when called.
Sometimes, when you call your dog, run away! Whether you’re in the house and going around the kitchen island or on leash at the park and darting away as much as the leash will allow. This movement away will help attract your dog to you, encourage speed, and make play with you as part of the reward.
Don’t Accept Slow Responses
If you see that your dog is slow - don’t just stand there. Move away and playfully tease your dog by waving the treats or toys. If your dog likes physical play, maybe gently push them away. Then try again. If we stand and let them come slowly, we may accidentally encourage slower responses.
Evaluate your rewards - sometimes dogs come slowly if they’re intimidated by us. Leaning over a dog or moving into their space by stepping toward them can result in slower approaches. Some dogs are more sensitive and don’t like us talking loudly or moving quickly towards them. Watch your dog and see how they respond when you try different things!
