Pit Bulls are smart dogs that love to please, which usually makes training easy. But teaching your Pitty to come when called has unique challenges that can make it frustrating. Often, we inadvertently poison our own training efforts when it comes to this behavior. Your Pitty may not come to you simply because the behavior hasn’t been taught correctly. If you’re struggling, try these 3 secrets to getting your Pit Bull to come when called.
#1 – Don’t Call Your Pit Bull For Something He Hates
Dogs learn by association. For example, they counter surf one time, get a piece of steak and then associate counter surfing with food and continue to do it. So, if you call your Pitty to you every time you need to do something he hates such as a bath, nail trim, car ride, etc., he will associate coming when called with negative things and not want to come to you. To not ruin your come, it’s better to go get your dog in these instances. And definitely never punish your Pitty if he comes when called.
#2 – Get Low & Act Excited
The more fun you look, the more likely your Pit Bull is going to want to come to where the party is! So if he doesn’t immediately come running after you have said your cue, try crouching down with arms open and a relaxed happy face. Most dogs will be much more likely to come to a person in this position than one who is standing up straight in a “serious” posture.
#3 – Disappear
No matter how independent your Pitty seems, she really does want you around. If she didn’t respond to that Come cue, find a place to hide. A bush, a tree, inside the house—anywhere your dog can’t see you will work. Chances are, as soon as she realizes she can’t see you, she will look for you. When your Pit Bull finds you, remember to praise them and be happy!
