We begin this week’s “RUFF TAILS” featuring a beautiful Cane Corso named Leo.
Hello, my name is Leo. I am 3.5 years old, and I love my family. I am very happy, smart, and a loving dog. However, sometimes I tend to be overprotective with my loved ones and can be stubborn at times. In general, I have a good nature and am dedicated to my loved ones.
I enjoy spending time with my family pack, running through the fields and I am passionate about playing ball. Through the training that my family pack is providing with Paul, I am learning to behave better and learning to socialize. I had very little socialization opportunities through the pandemic. My mom says my improvement has been noticeable and we are looking forward to learning more.
Welcome to Doggie Dialogue
Your dog loves you, but sometimes the pent-up energy, frustration, boredom, or a certain trigger or distraction causes them to run away when called. Some dogs more than others.
Sometimes your dog just runs out the front door, or over to the neighbours, but sometimes they can get lost or worst hurt.
Some dogs may run because they are afraid or scared of loud noises, fireworks, or thunderstorms. Dogs may also escape in search of a mate if they have not been fixed yet.
When dogs get into this “escape mode” they seem to not be able to hear. We recommend to first tackle draining that pent-up energy by exercising your K9 daily, you can also train your dog to fetch and retrieve, therefore teaching them to “come” back to you. We also recommend keeping your dog inside when not supervised.
For all dog owners, we suggest, that you train/teach your dog the “come” command. When you start to train and practice this command we recommend beginning in a least distracting environment and gradually work your way up. You can first practice this command in your home. Start in one room, then move to another room.
When you are outside training or playing with your K9 and “play time” is over and your dog doesn’t want to “come back”, is it because of FEAR? TRUST? PUNISHMENT? If you have punished your dog before for not “coming back” don’t expect them to listen to you the next time. If you start yelling at them when they do not come back, they will learn not to trust you. Even when you are upset with your dog for not returning to you when called, always use your “happy” voice even if you must FAKE IT!!!
Every dog should LOVE coming when called. When you call your K9 back to you make sure your “call” overshadows the distraction and with your voice, reassure them of your complete love and support.
ALWAYS praise them. Let your dog know coming back to you is better then anything else. You can reward your dog with praise, a toy or a treat, remember make it fun. The command “come” should always mean fun!!!
When training your dog to “come” use this command once by calling their name, then the command. For example, JAX, “COME”. Do not keep repeating this over and over, as your dog may tune you out.
We recommend when first starting to train outside for this command start with your dog on a six-foot leash, then graduate to a long line to elevate your training. When using a long-line and asking your dog to “come”, do not reel them in with the line, instead walk yourself closer to your dog until the dog responses to you.
Should you need any assistance with this type of training please feel free to reach out to us at any time.