Don't worry when you call your dog and it runs away. This has happened to many dog owners, and in this article, I'll show you how to fix it.
German Shepherds are an energetic breed. Allowing your dog to run and sniff on their own, off-leash, will keep them healthy and help get rid of their excess energy that might otherwise be used to create mischief. (But remember, it's important to respect all local leash laws.)
"Come" is probably the most important command you can teach your German Shepherd, and when your dog is in an emergency, it's possible that your German Shepherd's coming when called could save your dog's life. An example is an oncoming traffic. When your dog is unknowingly rushing toward danger, you want them to respond to your voice above all else.
How to Train a German Shepherd to Come When Called
An important part of teaching recall is to make training a game for your dog. You want your dog to think that coming and being near you is the best thing imaginable, full of fantastic treats and rewards.[1]
- Start indoors. Train in a quieter environment, such as your house. Maybe your dog is just lying on a bed on the other side of the room. Have your dog's favorite treats or toys ready, make eye contact with your dog, and add your choice of verbal cues as they come towards you. "here" etc. Some people also do this by using a whistle. Whether it's a new word or a whistle - you have to stick to it or you will confuse your German Shepherd and have a hard time retraining them. Make sure to only add a cue when you are sure your dog is moving towards you. Once they find you, give your dog a tasty treat such as chopped cooked chicken nuggets (no spices or seasonings), freeze-dried liver, or any other small portion of a snack your dog likes.
- Try repeating this process over a longer distance. You may enter another room. If this doesn't work, go back to the original place and practice a few more times, then try repeating it at a longer distance. Remember, don't get upset if you fail, repetition is the key. Although German Shepherds are very intelligent, it can take a long time to learn to understand human language at first.
- Go outside and train. Many German Shepherds will need additional recall training once you start teaching them to come to commands outdoors. The outdoors is full of distractions, such as crowds, and other animals and your GSD puppy may have a hard time noticing you. You can start in your backyard and then move on to a less crowded park and repeat the above in a less disturbed area, then you can try practicing at increasing distances and with increasing distractions (there is no shame in keeping your dog on a leash when training in public places if you are not confident in their recall. (You can choose a long leash that is at least 20 feet long and designed for large breeds).
TIPS: When teaching your dog to come, say their name once and the command once (“Fido, come!”). Don’t keep repeating their name or “come,” as your pup may tune you out, and the command may eventually lose any meaning.[2]
Tips For Training A Reliable Recall
- Don't train when your dog is really hungry - it will make them frustrated and your GSD will have a hard time concentrating on recall training.
- Never punish your German Shepherd or puppy for not coming to you on walks during this early stage of training. Rebuking or punishing them could undo all your efforts.
- Take your time and lengthen the distance when training. Even if you already feel that your German Shepherd has mastered this skill, you still need to practice this important recall training.
- When you first start training, be sure to let your dog go a long way until you have completed all the stages of teaching them to come when called so they can stay safe and you can help guide them to your side if needed.
- When recall training, have treats and toys for your dog that will appeal to them, and always reward recall because you want them to associate coming with getting a reward.
- Never use the recall command with an angry or frustrated tone in your voice. You want your dog to have a positive association with the "come" command.
References and Resources
[1]Come! Tips For Training A Reliable Recall-AKC
[2] Why Won't My Dog Come When Called? Tips For Teaching Reliable Recall (akc.org)
