Training your bull terrier to come when called is an essential skill that can save your pet’s life in dangerous situations. Bull terriers are known for their strong-willed and independent nature, which can make training them challenging. However, with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques, you can teach your bull terrier to come when called reliably.
In this article, we’ll explore the step-by-step process of training your bull terrier to come when called, common mistakes to avoid, and tips for reinforcing this behavior for long-term success. With time and effort, your bull terrier can become a well-trained and obedient 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 bull 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 bull 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 bull terrier and ensuring that they understand what you expect from them.
3. Begin Training Your Bull Terrier in a Controlled Environment
Start training your bull 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 Bull Terrier
When training your bull 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 bull 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 bull terrier to come when called? Try this video course.
6. Make Yourself Interesting and Rewarding to Your Bull Terrier
To encourage your bull 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 Bull Terrier for Coming When Called
It’s essential to avoid punishing your bull 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 Bull Terrier
Consistent practice is crucial for training your bull 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 Bull Terrier
When transitioning from a controlled environment to a more open space, consider using a long training leash to maintain control over your bull 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 Bull Terrier
Training your bull 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 Bull Terrier Training Course
While this article provides many helpful tips for training your bull 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 Bull Terrier to Come Online Course Here
In conclusion, training your bull terrier to come when called is a vital skill that requires time, patience, and consistency. Using positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and toys, you can make the learning experience fun and rewarding for your pet. Remember to avoid common mistakes such as punishment or yelling, which can create fear and resistance in your dog. By practicing regularly and reinforcing the behavior consistently, your bull terrier will learn to associate coming when called with positive outcomes, making them more likely to obey. With dedication and persistence, you can ensure that your bull terrier comes when called, giving you peace of mind and a happy, obedient companion.
More Frequently Asked Questions For Training Your Bull Terrier
1. How do I train my bull terrier to stop jumping on people?
Jumping on people is a common issue for bull terriers, as they are known for their high energy and excitement. However, this behavior can be dangerous and intimidating, especially for children or elderly individuals. To train your bull terrier to stop jumping on people, follow these steps:
- Ignore the behavior: When your bull terrier jumps on you or someone else, don’t give them any attention or physical contact. Turn your back on them and avoid eye contact until they calm down.
- Teach an alternative behavior: Once your bull terrier is calm, redirect their attention to a more appropriate behavior, such as sitting or lying down. Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats or praise to encourage this behavior.
- Consistency is key: To eliminate the jumping behavior, you must be consistent in your training. Encourage your dog to sit or lie down whenever they approach you or other people. Gradually decrease the rewards until the behavior becomes automatic.
2. How do I train my bull terrier to walk on a leash?
Bull terriers are strong and muscular dogs, and walking them on a leash can be challenging if they are not trained properly. To train your bull terrier to walk on a leash, follow these steps:
- Start with a comfortable leash and collar: Choose a collar and leash that fit your bull terrier comfortably, without causing any discomfort or injury.
- Encourage good behavior: Reward your dog with treats or praise when they walk calmly on the leash. Use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage good behavior.
- Avoid punishment: Do not punish your dog for pulling or jumping on the leash. This can create fear and resistance, making the behavior worse.
- Practice in a controlled environment: Start training your bull terrier in a quiet and controlled environment, such as a backyard or a quiet street. Gradually increase the level of distractions and difficulty as your dog becomes more comfortable.
- Teach leash manners: Train your bull terrier to walk on your left side, with a loose leash. Encourage your dog to follow your lead, rather than leading the way.
3. How do I train my bull terrier to stop barking excessively?
Bull terriers are vocal dogs and can bark excessively if they are not trained properly. To train your bull terrier to stop barking excessively, follow these steps:
- Identify the cause: Determine the cause of your bull terrier’s excessive barking, such as boredom, fear, or excitement.
- Remove the trigger: Remove the trigger that causes your dog to bark excessively. For example, if your dog barks at the doorbell, teach them to stay calm when the doorbell rings.
- Use positive reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats or praise when they remain calm and quiet. Use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage good behavior.
- Consistency is key: To eliminate the excessive barking behavior, you must be consistent in your training. Encourage your dog to remain calm and quiet in all situations.
- Seek professional help: If your bull terrier’s excessive barking persists despite your efforts, consider seeking the help of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist.
In conclusion, training your bull terrier requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques. To train your bull terrier to stop jumping on people, walking on a leash, or barking excessively, follow these steps and be consistent in your training. With time and effort, your bull terrier can become a well-trained and obedient companion.
4. What’s the best online course for teaching a bull 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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