Dog refuses to come when called
Alright, let’s get straight to it. You call your dog, they just stare at you or, worse, ignore you completely. If your dog refuses to come when called, you’re not alone—and you’re probably doing something wrong. I’ve been a vet for over a decade and run a sanctuary for stray dogs and cats, and this is one of the most common issues I see.
But let me be clear: this isn’t your dog’s fault. Dogs want to please you, but if they don’t come when called, it means the training isn’t working or they don’t see any reason to listen. So let’s break down what’s going on and how you fix it—calmly, firmly, and effectively.
1. Stop Yelling and Start Training
Calling your dog in a panicked or angry tone won’t help. You need to sound happy and inviting. Your dog should see coming to you as the best thing in the world—not a punishment or a hassle.
2. Use High-Value Rewards
If your dog doesn’t care about the treats or praise you’re offering, you’re not motivating them enough. Use the good stuff—real meat treats, cheese, or their favorite toy. Make coming to you the highlight of their day.
3. Train in Small, Controlled Sessions
Start inside or in a fenced yard with zero distractions. Call your dog with a cheerful voice, reward them immediately when they come, and repeat. Keep sessions short—five to ten minutes tops.
4. Never Punish Your Dog for Coming Late
If your dog comes to you after ignoring the call, never scold or punish them. That teaches them coming means trouble. Instead, reward them no matter what. Later, work on increasing their responsiveness.
5. Practice Makes Perfect
Practice the recall command multiple times a day. Mix it up—call your dog from different rooms, behind furniture, or with distractions around. Consistency is key.
6. Make It Fun and Engaging
Turn recall into a game. Run away from your dog when you call them, use an excited voice, and reward with playtime or treats. Make your dog want to come running because it’s fun and rewarding.
Bottom Line
If your dog refuses to come when called, don’t blame them—fix your approach. Use positive reinforcement, stay patient, and keep training consistent. You’re the leader here, so act like it with calm confidence.
Get this right, and your dog will come running every time. Ignore it, and you’re setting yourself up for frustration and potential safety issues.
