If you’re a proud owner of a Boston Terrier, you know how charming and affectionate these little dogs can be. However, training them to come when called can sometimes be a challenge. This is especially important if your pup likes to run around and explore, as it’s important to be able to call them back to you for their safety.
In this article, we’ll go over some helpful tips and techniques for training your Boston Terrier to come when called, so you can enjoy your time together and give your pup the freedom they crave while still keeping them safe.
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 boston terrier 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 boston terrier 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 boston terrier and ensuring that they understand what you expect from them.
3. Begin Training Your Boston Terrier in a Controlled Environment
Start training your boston terrier 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 Boston Terrier
When training your boston terrier 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 boston terrier 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 boston terrier to come when called? Try this video course.
6. Make Yourself Interesting and Rewarding to Your Boston Terrier
To encourage your boston terrier 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 Boston Terrier for Coming When Called
It’s essential to avoid punishing your boston terrier 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 Boston Terrier
Consistent practice is crucial for training your boston terrier 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 Boston Terrier
When transitioning from a controlled environment to a more open space, consider using a long training leash to maintain control over your boston terrier 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 Boston Terrier
Training your boston terrier 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 Boston Terrier Training Course
While this article provides many helpful tips for training your boston terrier, 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 Boston Terrier to Come Online Course Here
In conclusion, training your Boston Terrier to come when called is an important aspect of owning a happy and healthy pet. It requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement to achieve success. Remember to always make it a positive experience for your dog, and avoid punishing or scolding them if they don’t come right away. With time and practice, your Boston Terrier will learn to respond to your calls and you’ll be able to enjoy worry-free outdoor adventures together. Keep up the training and enjoy the bond that you’ll form with your furry friend.
More Frequently Asked Questions For Training Your Boston Terrier
1. What should I do if my Boston Terrier doesn’t come when called?
If your Boston Terrier doesn’t come when called, it’s important to avoid punishing or scolding them. This can make them scared or confused, and may even make them less likely to come when called in the future. Instead, try using positive reinforcement techniques to encourage them to come to you. This can include using treats, toys, or praise when they come when called. You can also try using a long leash to give them more freedom to roam while still being able to reel them in if necessary.
2. How can I make training my Boston Terrier to come when called more fun?
Making training fun is an important part of keeping your Boston Terrier engaged and interested. One way to make it more fun is to use treats or toys as rewards for coming when called. You can also try playing hide-and-seek with your dog, calling them to come find you and rewarding them with a treat or toy when they do. Another fun idea is to enlist the help of friends or family members to call your dog from different locations, rewarding them each time they successfully come when called.
3. How long will it take to train my Boston Terrier to come when called?
The time it takes to train your Boston Terrier to come when called can vary depending on a variety of factors, including your dog’s personality, age, and level of training. Some dogs may pick up on the training quickly, while others may take longer to learn. It’s important to be patient and consistent with your training, and to continue practicing until your dog consistently responds to your calls. With time and dedication, your Boston Terrier will learn to come when called and you’ll be able to enjoy many happy and safe outdoor adventures together.
4. What’s the best online course for teaching a boston terrier 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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