Bloodhounds are famous for their extraordinary sense of smell, which makes them excellent tracking and hunting dogs. However, their independent nature and strong prey drive can make it challenging to train them to come when called. Teaching your bloodhound to respond to a recall command is not only important for their safety but also for your peace of mind.
In this article, we’ll explore effective training methods to teach your bloodhound to come when called, including positive reinforcement techniques, consistent practice, and building a strong bond with your dog. With patience and persistence, you can successfully train your bloodhound to come when called, and enjoy a happy and fulfilling relationship with your loyal canine companion.
Note: For a complete training, we highly recommend this SpiritDog Online Training Course “Coming When Called”.
1. Start with a Strong Foundation
Before you begin training your bloodhound to come when called, it’s crucial to establish a strong bond with your pet. Spend time playing with your dog, engaging in activities they enjoy, and providing positive reinforcement through praise and treats. Building trust and a strong connection with your bloodhound will make them more likely to respond positively to your commands.
2. Choose a Distinct Command Word
Select a specific word or phrase for the recall command, such as “come” or “here.” Ensure that the command is distinct from other commands you use and that all family members use the same word consistently. Consistency is critical to avoid confusing your bloodhound and ensuring that they understand what you expect from them.
3. Begin Training Your Bloodhound in a Controlled Environment
Start training your bloodhound to come when called in a controlled, distraction-free environment like your home or a fenced yard. In the early stages of training, it’s essential to minimize distractions to help your dog focus on learning the new command. As your dog becomes more reliable in responding to the recall command, gradually introduce distractions and practice in various environments.
4. Use Positive Reinforcement with Your Bloodhound
When training your bloodhound to come when called, always use positive reinforcement techniques. Reward your pup with praise, treats, or playtime when they respond to your recall command. This will help create a positive association with the command and motivate your dog to respond consistently. Remember to be patient and consistent in your training, as it may take time for your dog to master the recall command.
If you’re using treats, these are currently the most popular training treats on Amazon.
5. Gradually Increase Distance and Distractions
As your bloodhound becomes more reliable in responding to the recall command in a controlled environment, begin to increase the distance between you and your dog during training sessions. Practice calling your dog from various distances and gradually introduce distractions, such as other dogs, people, or toys. This will help your dog learn to respond to the command even in challenging situations.
Related: Looking for the fastest way to train your bloodhound to come when called? Try this video course.
6. Make Yourself Interesting and Rewarding to Your Bloodhound
To encourage your bloodhound to come when called, make yourself more appealing and rewarding to your dog. Use an enthusiastic, high-pitched voice when calling your dog, and reward them with a treat or praise when they respond. You can also try running away from your dog when calling them, as this can entice your dog to chase after you and respond to the recall command.
7. Never Punish Your Bloodhound for Coming When Called
It’s essential to avoid punishing your bloodhound if they do not immediately respond to the recall command or if they come to you slowly. Punishing your dog can create a negative association with the command and make them less likely to respond in the future. Instead, be patient and continue to practice and reinforce the command using positive reinforcement techniques.
8. Practice the Recall Command Regularly with Your Bloodhound
Consistent practice is crucial for training your bloodhound to come when called. Incorporate recall training into your dog’s daily routine, and practice the command in various environments and situations. This will help reinforce the behavior and make it more reliable over time.
9. Use a Long Training Leash on Your Bloodhound
When transitioning from a controlled environment to a more open space, consider using a long training leash to maintain control over your bloodhound while they learn to respond to the recall command. This will help you avoid losing control of your dog and provide a safety measure as you gradually increase the distance and distractions during training sessions.
This is the most popular long training leash on Amazon.
10. Be Patient and Persistent with Your Bloodhound
Training your bloodhound to come when called takes time, patience, and persistence. Some dogs may learn the command quickly, while others may require more time and consistent practice. Be patient with your dog and maintain a positive attitude during training sessions. Remember that every dog is unique, and the key to success is consistent practice and positive reinforcement.
11. Use a Professional Online Bloodhound Training Course
While this article provides many helpful tips for training your bloodhound, you can increase your chances of success by enlisting the help of a professional online dog trainer. We love the SpiritDog online courses, since its includes unlimited questions with a real dog trainer.
You can check out their Teach Your Bloodhound to Come Online Course Here
In conclusion, training your bloodhound to come when called is essential for their safety and well-being. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques, you can teach your bloodhound to respond to a recall command reliably. Remember to make training sessions fun and enjoyable for your dog, and always reward them for their efforts. Building a strong bond with your bloodhound through training and regular exercise will help you establish a relationship based on trust and mutual respect. By following the tips and techniques discussed in this article, you can successfully train your bloodhound to come when called, and enjoy a fulfilling life with your furry friend.
More Frequently Asked Questions For Training Your Bloodhound
1. How do I teach my bloodhound to stay?
Teaching your bloodhound to stay is an essential skill that can help keep them safe in different situations. Here are some steps you can follow to teach your bloodhound to stay:
- Start with a sit: Begin by asking your bloodhound to sit. Once they are sitting, say the command “stay” and take a step back. If your bloodhound remains seated, give them a treat and praise them.
- Increase the distance: Gradually increase the distance you step away from your bloodhound while they are staying. Be sure to reward them each time they remain in place.
- Increase the duration: Once your bloodhound is staying for longer periods, gradually increase the amount of time they stay in place before rewarding them.
- Add distractions: Once your bloodhound has mastered staying in a low-distraction environment, begin to add distractions, such as toys or treats, and repeat the process.
Remember to always use positive reinforcement and be patient with your bloodhound. With consistency and practice, your bloodhound will learn to stay on command.
2. How can I train my bloodhound not to pull on the leash?
Bloodhounds are strong dogs, and their natural instinct to follow scents can make them pull on the leash. However, with the right training techniques, you can teach your bloodhound to walk calmly on a leash. Here are some tips:
- Use a proper leash: Invest in a high-quality leash that is comfortable for both you and your dog. Avoid retractable leashes, as they can encourage pulling.
- Use positive reinforcement: Reward your bloodhound for walking calmly on the leash. Use treats or praise to reinforce good behavior.
- Start small: Begin by walking short distances with your bloodhound and gradually increase the length of your walks. This will help your bloodhound get used to walking on a leash and build up their stamina.
- Use a gentle leader: Consider using a gentle leader or no-pull harness to help prevent your bloodhound from pulling on the leash.
- Stop and wait: When your bloodhound starts to pull, stop walking and wait until they relax. Once they have calmed down, continue walking.
- Use a command: Teach your bloodhound a command, such as “heel,” and use it consistently when walking on a leash.
Remember to be patient and consistent with your training. Over time, your bloodhound will learn to walk calmly on a leash, and you’ll be able to enjoy stress-free walks with your furry friend.
3. How do I teach my bloodhound to come when called?
Teaching your bloodhound to come when called is an important skill that can help keep them safe in different situations. Here are some steps you can follow to teach your bloodhound to come when called:
- Start indoors: Begin by practicing indoors in a low-distraction environment. Call your bloodhound by their name followed by the command “come.” When they come to you, reward them with treats or praise.
- Increase the distance: Once your bloodhound is reliably coming when called indoors, begin to increase the distance between you and your dog.
- Increase the distractions: Once your bloodhound is coming when called in different locations, gradually increase the level of distraction, such as adding toys or other dogs.
- Never punish: Never punish your bloodhound for not coming when called. This can make them associate the recall command with something negative, making it harder to train them.
- Use a long line: Consider using a long line to practice the recall command in an open space.
4. What’s the best online course for teaching a bloodhound to come when called? At iHeartDogs, we recommend the SpiritDog online course “Coming When Called.” The course includes unlimited questions with a real dog trainer.
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