Great Pyrenees dogs are known for their majestic and independent nature, but they can also be stubborn and difficult to train. One of the most important commands to teach any dog is to come when called, and this is especially true for a breed as large and strong as the Great Pyrenees. Training your Great Pyrenees to come when called not only ensures their safety, but also enhances your relationship and bond with your furry friend.
In this article, we will explore some effective techniques to help you train your Great Pyrenees to come when called, even in distracting environments.
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 great pyrenees 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 great pyrenees 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 great pyrenees and ensuring that they understand what you expect from them.
3. Begin Training Your Great Pyrenees in a Controlled Environment
Start training your great pyrenees 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 Great Pyrenees
When training your great pyrenees 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 great pyrenees 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 great pyrenees to come when called? Try this video course.
6. Make Yourself Interesting and Rewarding to Your Great Pyrenees
To encourage your great pyrenees 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 Great Pyrenees for Coming When Called
It’s essential to avoid punishing your great pyrenees 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 Great Pyrenees
Consistent practice is crucial for training your great pyrenees 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 Great Pyrenees
When transitioning from a controlled environment to a more open space, consider using a long training leash to maintain control over your great pyrenees 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 Great Pyrenees
Training your great pyrenees 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 Great Pyrenees Training Course
While this article provides many helpful tips for training your great pyrenees, 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 Great Pyrenees to Come Online Course Here
In conclusion, training your Great Pyrenees to come when called is a vital skill that every owner should prioritize. By using positive reinforcement techniques and practicing in various environments, you can build a strong recall response in your furry friend. Remember to keep training sessions short and consistent, and always end on a positive note. With patience, dedication, and a lot of treats, you can successfully train your Great Pyrenees to come when called, no matter where you are. Having a reliable recall response in your Great Pyrenees will not only give you peace of mind but also strengthen the bond between you and your furry companion.
More Frequently Asked Questions for Training Your Great Pyrenees
If you’re a Great Pyrenees owner, you probably know how challenging it can be to train this breed. From their independent nature to their size and strength, there are many factors that can make training a Great Pyrenees difficult. In this article, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about training Great Pyrenees dogs.
1. How do I teach my Great Pyrenees to come when called?
Teaching your Great Pyrenees to come when called is essential for their safety, as well as your peace of mind. One of the most effective ways to teach this command is by using positive reinforcement techniques. Start by calling your dog’s name, followed by the command “come” in a clear and upbeat tone. When your Great Pyrenees comes to you, reward them with treats, praise, and affection. Repeat this process in various environments and gradually increase the distance between you and your dog. Avoid using punishment or negative reinforcement, as this can damage your relationship with your furry friend.
Another useful technique is to use a long leash or a training lead when practicing recall. This allows you to give your Great Pyrenees some freedom to explore while still having control over their movements. Call your dog’s name and command “come” while gently pulling the leash towards you. Reward them when they come to you, and gradually increase the distance between you and your dog.
2. How do I stop my Great Pyrenees from jumping on people?
Great Pyrenees dogs are known for their friendly and social nature, but they can also be quite exuberant and love to jump on people. This can be a problem, especially if your dog is large and strong. To stop your Great Pyrenees from jumping on people, you need to teach them an alternative behavior that is more acceptable.
One way to do this is by teaching your Great Pyrenees the “off” command. When your dog jumps on you or someone else, say “off” in a firm but calm voice and turn away from them. Wait until your Great Pyrenees has all four paws on the ground and reward them with treats, praise, and attention. Repeat this process consistently, and your Great Pyrenees will learn that jumping is not an acceptable behavior.
You can also teach your Great Pyrenees to greet people calmly and politely by training them to sit and stay before being allowed to greet. When someone approaches, command your Great Pyrenees to sit and stay. Once they are calm, allow them to greet the person in a controlled and polite manner.
3. How do I train my Great Pyrenees to walk on a leash?
Walking on a leash is an essential skill for any dog, but it can be particularly challenging for Great Pyrenees dogs, who are known for their strong pull and independent nature. To train your Great Pyrenees to walk on a leash, you need to start by using a well-fitted collar or harness and a sturdy leash. Avoid using retractable leashes, as these can encourage pulling.
Begin by rewarding your Great Pyrenees for walking next to you on a loose leash. Whenever your dog walks calmly by your side, reward them with treats, praise, and attention. If your Great Pyrenees pulls on the leash, stop walking and wait until they calm down before resuming your walk. Repeat this process consistently, and your Great Pyrenees will learn that walking calmly on a leash is a positive behavior.
4. What’s the best online course for teaching a great pyrenees 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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