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There comes a time in almost every puppy owner's
life when you really need your pup to come to you, and he really doesn't
want to. You call. Your puppy barks. You beg. Your puppy sniffs. You go
after him. Your puppy runs away. Now what? Luckily, there are several
things you can do that can help get your puppy running towards you. Of
course, the easiest of all is not allowing him to run off. However,
sometimes puppies will slip out the front door of even the most diligent
puppy owners. Other times that open field is just too tempting to us
humans and we let the pup off leash for a little "fun." And in a few
seconds, you realize what a bad idea that was. If this happens try
running in the opposite direction, getting fascinated by something on
the ground or playing with another dog. One of these should do the
trick.
Run in the opposite direction
Most pups want to be with you. Run after them and they figure, "You're
coming too? Great! Let's go exploring!" Run away from them and often, in
a few seconds, they're hustling to catch up.
This technique can be made more effective if you clap your hands, whoop
it up and generally sound like there's a party that they are missing.
When they run up, bend down, praise them enthusiastically, reach under
their neck and grasp their collar. Praise some more. No scolding.
Scolding after capture simply teaches your pup that bad things happen
after capture, and he will try to avoid being caught the next time. You
don't fix running away by punishing your pup when he comes to you.
Get interested in the ground
Sounds odd but it can work. Bend down and get fascinated by something on
the ground. Poke at it, pick at it, make "Hmm" sounds. Pups are curious
creatures and more often than not they will come over to see what they
are missing. Avoid lunging at your pup to catch him. This is tempting,
but pups are quick, usually quicker than we are. Lunging will make him
hesitant to come close next time.
Play with another pup
Every pup has his limits and for many it is seeing "their" person
playing with another canine. Throwing a ball for another dog and
praising him loudly, giving him treats and generally fussing over him
will bring many a pup hurrying back to you.
However you retrieve your pup, count yourself lucky that you got him
back. Now that you know more training is necessary, put in some
practice. If you have trouble, take a class or find a good instructor.
All you need is information; if you are at this web site you already
have the interest, love and commitment to make it work. Happy training!
© 2008 Mars,
Incorporated and its Affiliates. All Rights Reserved.
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