What to do when dog doesn't come?

[gsdemack]

Hi,
My puppy is 16weeks and knows the come command and is reliable 95% of the time. However, sometimes she ignores it even though she knows she can get a good treat. She has got into dangerous situations because of not listening.

I know that it's a mistake for a dog to learn there is no consequence for ignoring the command.

What should I do in this case?

Thanks.

[Sunflowers]

Keep her on a very long lead, and do not call her,unless you are sure that you can make her follow through.
It is way too early for corrections. Just set her up to succeed.

[katdog5911]

This is why Stella is on a long line. She ran into the road once back in her off leash days....

Don't correct her for not coming back at this point. I think a lot of positive reinforcement when she comes is good and a long line prevents any mishaps.

I have started using an e collar for recall training. But your pup is a bit young for that.

[gsdemack]

How do you stop her from getting her legs tangled in the lead?

[Sunflowers]

You don't. She will self correct.
What I do when I practice the come command is to keep the end of the lead in my hand, and call when it doesn't look as if he will get tangled. If he doesn't come I give a little tug. Then we have a party when he does arrive.

[katdog5911]

Originally Posted by Sunflowers

You don't. She will self correct.
What I do when I practice the come command is to keep the end of the lead in my hand, and call when it doesn't look as if he will get tangled. If he doesn't come I give a little tug. Then we have a party when he does arrive.

This^^^

And I have become quite acrobatic with the long line!!!

[Sunflowers]

Originally Posted by katdog5911

And I have become quite acrobatic with the long line!!!

Yeah, sometimes I feel as if I'm doing double Dutch.
Once it got wrapped around my ankle. I was very lucky that nothing horrible happened -- well, except for a nasty leash burn.

[gsdemack]

What length leads do you use?

[katdog5911]

I worked my way up to a 30 foot biothane line. I started shorter.


I actually did get knocked on my butt once. Stella got the zoomies and was racing back and forth like a lunatic. The line caught my foot and I went BOOM. Fortunately nothing too serious except a sore back and butt for a few days.

[Sunflowers]

I have a 20 cotton and a 30 Biothane.
Also good for letting him out to do his business when I don't feel like going with him.