Training your English Springer Spaniel to come when called is an essential skill that every dog owner should teach their furry friend. Not only does it ensure your dog’s safety, but it also promotes bonding and creates a sense of trust between you and your pet. However, teaching your dog to come when called requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement.
In this article, we will discuss the steps you can take to train your English Springer Spaniel to come when called, as well as common mistakes to avoid and tips for reinforcing this important behavior.
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 english springer spaniel 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 english springer spaniel 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 english springer spaniel and ensuring that they understand what you expect from them.
3. Begin Training Your English Springer Spaniel in a Controlled Environment
Start training your english springer spaniel 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 English Springer Spaniel
When training your english springer spaniel 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 english springer spaniel 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.
6. Make Yourself Interesting and Rewarding to Your English Springer Spaniel
To encourage your english springer spaniel 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 English Springer Spaniel for Coming When Called
It’s essential to avoid punishing your english springer spaniel 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 English Springer Spaniel
Consistent practice is crucial for training your english springer spaniel 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 English Springer Spaniel
When transitioning from a controlled environment to a more open space, consider using a long training leash to maintain control over your english springer spaniel 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 English Springer Spaniel
Training your english springer spaniel 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 English Springer Spaniel Training Course
While this article provides many helpful tips for training your english springer spaniel, 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 English Springer Spaniel to Come Online Course Here
Training your English Springer Spaniel to come when called is a crucial skill that can make a significant difference in your dog’s safety and behavior. Remember to use positive reinforcement and consistency in your training, and be patient with your dog as they learn this new behavior. Avoid common mistakes like punishment and inconsistency, and always reward your dog for coming when called. With practice and dedication, your English Springer Spaniel will become a well-behaved and obedient companion, always eager to come when called and enjoy quality time with their loving owner.
More Frequently Asked Questions For Training Your English Springer Spaniel
Training your English Springer Spaniel can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for both you and your pet. However, it’s not uncommon to have questions about the process. In this article, we will address some of the most frequently asked questions about training your English Springer Spaniel.
1. How can I potty train my English Springer Spaniel?
Potty training your English Springer Spaniel requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Begin by taking your dog outside frequently, especially after eating, drinking, or waking up from a nap. Choose a designated potty spot and wait for your dog to go potty. When they do, immediately praise them and give them a treat. If they don’t go potty, bring them back inside and try again in a few minutes.
If you catch your English Springer Spaniel in the act of going potty inside, interrupt them with a loud noise like clapping your hands or saying “no,” and immediately take them outside to finish. Remember to always praise and reward your dog when they go potty outside.
Consistency is key when potty training your English Springer Spaniel. Stick to a schedule and take them out at the same times every day. If accidents happen, clean them up thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove any odor that may encourage your dog to go potty in the same spot again.
2. How can I stop my English Springer Spaniel from jumping on people?
Jumping is a common behavior in English Springer Spaniels, but it can be frustrating and even dangerous when your dog jumps on people. The first step in stopping this behavior is to stop rewarding it. When your dog jumps on you or someone else, don’t give them attention or affection. Instead, turn away from them and ignore them until they stop jumping.
You can also teach your English Springer Spaniel an alternative behavior, like sitting or offering a toy. When they jump, ask them to sit and reward them for doing so. With consistent practice, your dog will learn that sitting or offering a toy is a more rewarding behavior than jumping.
Another way to discourage jumping is to work on impulse control with your English Springer Spaniel. Teach them to wait patiently for things they want, like going outside or getting their food. This will help them learn to control their impulses and be calmer overall.
3. How can I teach my English Springer Spaniel to walk on a leash?
Teaching your English Springer Spaniel to walk on a leash requires patience and positive reinforcement. Start by introducing them to the leash and allowing them to sniff and explore it. Once they’re comfortable with the leash, attach it to their collar and let them drag it around the house or yard for short periods of time.
Next, pick up the leash and start walking with your dog. Reward them for staying close to you and not pulling on the leash. If your dog starts to pull, stop walking and wait for them to come back to your side. When they do, reward them with praise or a treat.
If your English Springer Spaniel continues to pull on the leash, you may want to try a no-pull harness or head halter. These tools can help you control your dog’s pulling while also teaching them proper leash manners.
Remember to keep training sessions short and fun, and to always reward your dog for good behavior. With patience and consistency, your English Springer Spaniel will learn to walk on a leash like a pro.
4. What’s the best online course for teaching an english springer spaniel 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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