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Originally Posted by FirstYorkie Catrina -
You need to make "come" more rewarding for her. Start working on come from short distances and always give her a treat for coming. Then let her go back to what she was doing or play a game with her. Why would she come to you if she knew the result was end of fun/punishment? Gradually increase the distance that she has to cover to come to you.
After she learns "come", you need to teach her "drop it".
As far as the not responding unless you have treat in hand, do this. Work on "sit", "come" or whatever with treat in hand. After a couple of repetitions, put the treats on the counter right beside you. When she complies say "GOOD GIRL!" (or better yet, use a clicker!) then reach for the treat and give it to her. Gradually move a bit away from the counter but still get her a treat every time. If you haven't already done so, name your "treat", "cookie" or whatever everytime she gets one. When she knows the name and you have done the above, you'll be able to get the behavior you want and follow up with a "GOOD GIRL! Let's get your TREAT!" and go to another room to get it for her. When she is reliable with the command you're working on, you can start two-fers and then three-fers.
Two rules for you that I follow and think are VERY important:
1) don't chase the dog! It's one of their favorite games.
2) never punish for coming to you regardless of what the behavior she did beforehand! However bad she was, she has redeemed herself by coming on command. The importance of a good "come" command can't be over-estimated. It could save your dog's life!
An obedience class is a good idea and well worth the money!!! |
Excellent advice.
Your baby is still very young and it is good that you are concerned and willing to do the hard work necessary to make her obey because it is so worht it in the long run for both of you. Obedeince trained dogs are more bonded to their owners and usually are happier and live longer lives. The 8 week course at Petsmart is a steal at $99. It is best to make training an everyday, all day, exercise where you use daily experiences to train. It is the best way and like FiratYorkie said ...It could dave their life.
Good luck with your little one..she sounds like she has a cute, spunky personality.
