Why Your Dog Isn’t Coming When Called (And How to Fix It)

You’re at the park, calling your dog with excitement—“Come here, Fido!”—but your dog? They’re off sniffing a blade of grass, chasing after a squirrel, or just ignoring you altogether. You call again, louder this time, but they keep trotting away, doing their own thing. It’s frustrating, and you can’t help but wonder, “Why doesn’t my dog come when called?”

Don’t worry, this is a common issue that many dog owners face. The good news is, teaching your dog to come when called is totally achievable with some consistent, positive training.

Common Causes for a Dog Not Coming When Called

If your dog isn’t responding to their name or the command “come,” here are a few reasons why:

• Distraction: Dogs are curious creatures, and sometimes they’re too focused on something else, like a scent, another dog, or a playful distraction.
• Lack of Motivation: If your dog doesn’t find coming to you rewarding, they may not see the point of the command. If they don’t get something they value, why should they come?
• Inconsistency: If coming when called is often followed by something unpleasant (like a trip to the vet or a bath), your dog may avoid responding because they associate the command with something negative.
• Inexperience: Some dogs simply don’t understand the purpose of the “come” command and need clear, consistent training to get it.

Desired Behaviors to Encourage

To fix this, you want to encourage these positive behaviors:

1. Responding to their name or “Come” command when called.
2. Running toward you eagerly, even when distractions are present.
3. Returning calmly and happily, ready for a reward.

Training Commands for Recall

To teach your dog to come when called, start with these basic commands:

• “Come”: The main command you’ll use to have your dog return to you.
• “Here”: A more casual way to call your dog over.
• “Sit” or “Stay”: To help your dog settle once they return to you, reinforcing calm behavior.

Practice Progressions

Here’s a structured, progressive plan to teach your dog to come when called, starting with the basics and building up to a more reliable recall.

“Come” Command

• Beginner: Start indoors or in a quiet space with your dog on a leash. Say “Come” in an enthusiastic, clear tone while gently pulling them toward you. Reward them immediately with a treat or praise when they arrive.
• Intermediate: Practice in a more distracting environment, like your backyard. Call your dog with “Come” while they are distracted (e.g., sniffing around) and gently reel them back with the leash if needed. Reward them immediately when they return.
• Advanced: Increase the challenge by practicing in public spaces, like a park, with more distractions. Call “Come” when your dog is engaged in something else (e.g., running, sniffing) and gently guide them back with the leash. Reward them as soon as they come to you. Always use the “tell them once, then make them do it” mantra. If they don’t come immediately, give a light tug on the leash and reward them as soon as they comply.

“Here” Command

• Beginner: While your dog is close, call them with “Here” in a happy voice. Reward them with a treat when they approach.
• Intermediate: Practice “Here” when your dog is distracted (e.g., sniffing), and reward them for responding to the call.
• Advanced: Have someone hold your dog at a distance and call “Here” from across the room or yard. Reward them for coming quickly.

“Sit” or “Stay” Command

• Beginner: Once your dog comes to you, immediately ask them to “Sit” or “Stay” for a few seconds, then reward them.
• Intermediate: Ask your dog to “Sit” or “Stay” for a slightly longer period before rewarding them.
• Advanced: As your dog’s recall improves, ask them to “Sit” or “Stay” after they’ve come back to you, then gradually increase the duration before rewarding.

Conclusion

Teaching your dog to come when called is one of the most important skills they can learn, and with a little patience and consistency, it can be mastered! Remember, using the “tell them once, then make them do it” approach is key—if you can’t reinforce the command, your dog won’t learn to listen the first time. Stay positive, keep practicing, and soon, your dog will come running to you every time, no matter what else is going on!