Old English Sheepdogs are a charming and lovable breed that make great companions for families. However, one of the biggest challenges with these fluffy pups is getting them to come when called. OES are known to be independent thinkers and can be easily distracted by their surroundings, making recall training a daunting task. But fear not, with patience and consistent training, you can teach your Old English Sheepdog to come when called.
In this article, we will discuss effective techniques to train your OES and help you establish a strong recall command that will keep your furry friend safe and close by.
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 old english sheepdog 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 old english sheepdog 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 old english sheepdog and ensuring that they understand what you expect from them.
3. Begin Training Your Old English Sheepdog in a Controlled Environment
Start training your old english sheepdog 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 Old English Sheepdog
When training your old english sheepdog 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 old english sheepdog 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 Old English Sheepdog
To encourage your old english sheepdog 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 Old English Sheepdog for Coming When Called
It’s essential to avoid punishing your old english sheepdog 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 Old English Sheepdog
Consistent practice is crucial for training your old english sheepdog 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 Old English Sheepdog
When transitioning from a controlled environment to a more open space, consider using a long training leash to maintain control over your old english sheepdog 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 Old English Sheepdog
Training your old english sheepdog 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 Old English Sheepdog Training Course
While this article provides many helpful tips for training your old english sheepdog, 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 Old English Sheepdog to Come Online Course Here
In conclusion, training your Old English Sheepdog to come when called requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Start with basic commands and gradually increase the level of distractions as your dog becomes more reliable. Remember to use high-value treats and praise to encourage your dog to come back to you. It’s important to keep in mind that training is a continuous process and may take time, but with dedication and persistence, you’ll have a well-trained and obedient companion by your side. By establishing a strong recall command, you’ll not only have better control over your dog but also strengthen your bond and trust with your furry friend.
More Frequently Asked Questions for Training Your Old English Sheepdog
Old English Sheepdogs are an intelligent and loving breed that requires proper training and socialization to live harmoniously with their owners and other pets. Despite their adorable appearance, these dogs can be challenging to train due to their independent nature and stubborn streak. As a result, many owners have questions about the best techniques for training their Old English Sheepdogs. In this article, we will address some of the most frequently asked questions about training these lovable pups.
1. How can I stop my Old English Sheepdog from pulling on the leash?
Old English Sheepdogs are a strong and muscular breed that can easily pull their owners along on walks. However, allowing your dog to pull can cause discomfort for both you and your pet, as well as increase the risk of injury. To stop your Old English Sheepdog from pulling on the leash, you should start by teaching them to walk on a loose leash.
Begin by holding the leash close to your body and walking forward with your dog. If your dog starts to pull, stop and wait for them to come back to your side. As soon as they do, reward them with a treat or praise. Repeat this process until your dog learns to stay by your side when walking. Additionally, you can use a no-pull harness or head collar to reduce your dog’s pulling tendencies. These devices gently discourage your dog from pulling and can make your walks more comfortable and enjoyable for both of you.
2. How can I teach my Old English Sheepdog to be more obedient?
Obedience training is essential for all dogs, including Old English Sheepdogs. To teach your dog to be more obedient, you should start by establishing yourself as the pack leader. Dogs are pack animals and look to their owners for guidance and leadership. By asserting yourself as the leader, you can gain your dog’s respect and obedience.
One way to establish yourself as the pack leader is by using positive reinforcement training techniques. Reward your dog for good behavior with treats or praise, and ignore or redirect bad behavior. Consistency is key, so make sure everyone in your household uses the same commands and rewards for your dog. Additionally, consider enrolling your Old English Sheepdog in obedience classes. These classes can teach your dog new commands and help improve their obedience and socialization skills.
3. How can I socialize my Old English Sheepdog with other dogs?
Old English Sheepdogs can be social creatures, but they may have a tendency to be dominant or territorial around other dogs. To socialize your Old English Sheepdog with other dogs, you should start by introducing them to other dogs in a controlled environment.
Begin by introducing your dog to a well-behaved, calm dog in a neutral location, such as a park or dog park. Keep your dog on a leash and allow them to sniff and greet the other dog. If both dogs are calm and relaxed, you can allow them to play and interact under close supervision. If either dog becomes aggressive or uncomfortable, separate them immediately and try again another time.
It’s important to socialize your Old English Sheepdog with a variety of dogs to prevent them from becoming overly attached or aggressive towards other dogs. Consider enrolling your dog in doggy daycare or scheduling playdates with other dogs to help them become more comfortable and social with other animals.
Overall, training an Old English Sheepdog can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By using positive reinforcement techniques, establishing yourself as the pack leader, and socializing your dog with other animals
4. What’s the best online course for teaching an old english sheepdog 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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