3 expert tips for training your gun dog to follow your command to “come”

Coming when called is a basic K-9 command critical to a dog’s safety in the field. Keeping a dog in check also contributes to hunting success, preventing the dog from spooking game.

Here’s how to start training your gun dog to follow your command to come.

START YOUNG

Obedience training should start when a dog is approximately eight weeks old. At first, a puppy will want to run rather than come, but don’t chase it as that will only encourage a game of keep-away. Instead, call the pup’s name and command “come,” then dash in the opposite direction. This action will trigger the chasing instinct, and the puppy will run to catch up.

Praise the puppy when it arrives and offer a treat, then repeat the command until it becomes familiar. Practise this every time you work with your dog. A check cord, or long rope, can also be used for formal training sessions. Have the dog sit, then walk a short distance before you call “come,” followed by a tug on the cord. With praise and repetition, the dog will quickly figure it out.

WHISTLE & BEEP

As your pup matures, add other methods to extend the command range. A whistle can an invaluable tool, teaching the dog to “sit” with one whistle, for example, and “come” with three. At even further distances, consider an e-collar or tracking collar that beeps when it’s time to return. This is extremely useful when dogs are out of whistle range and in danger of crossing a busy road or swimming too far.

CONSITENCY

A well-trained dog will come on command, but even conditioned dogs will disobey if out of practise. Be consistent. Don’t command “come,” then let your dog ignore you. If needed, review these basics—even old dogs (and trainers) need refreshers.