Greyhounds are a popular breed known for their impressive speed and elegance. However, these athletic dogs can be notoriously independent and difficult to train when it comes to recall commands. Whether it’s due to their strong prey drive or their innate desire to run, getting a greyhound to come when called can be a frustrating and often unsuccessful endeavor.
In this article, we’ll explore some effective techniques for training your greyhound to respond to recall commands, and provide tips on how to make the training process both fun and rewarding for both you and your furry friend.
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 greyhound 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 greyhound 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 greyhound and ensuring that they understand what you expect from them.
3. Begin Training Your Greyhound in a Controlled Environment
Start training your greyhound 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 Greyhound
When training your greyhound 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 greyhound 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 greyhound to come when called? Try this video course.
6. Make Yourself Interesting and Rewarding to Your Greyhound
To encourage your greyhound 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 Greyhound for Coming When Called
It’s essential to avoid punishing your greyhound 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 Greyhound
Consistent practice is crucial for training your greyhound 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 Greyhound
When transitioning from a controlled environment to a more open space, consider using a long training leash to maintain control over your greyhound 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 Greyhound
Training your greyhound 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 Greyhound Training Course
While this article provides many helpful tips for training your greyhound, 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 Greyhound to Come Online Course Here
In conclusion, training a greyhound to come when called requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By utilizing the techniques outlined in this article, such as using high-value treats and building up to more distracting environments, you can help your greyhound learn to respond reliably to recall commands. Remember to make the training process enjoyable for your dog by incorporating play and praise, and avoiding punishment or negative reinforcement. With dedication and persistence, you can successfully train your greyhound to come when called and enjoy the freedom of off-leash play and exploration while still maintaining control and ensuring their safety.
More Frequently Asked Questions For Training Your Greyhound
Greyhounds are known for their speed and athleticism, but their independent and prey-driven nature can make training recall commands a challenge. Here are some additional frequently asked questions about training your greyhound to come when called.
1. How long does it take to train a greyhound to come when called?
The time it takes to train a greyhound to come when called can vary depending on the individual dog and their temperament, as well as the consistency and effectiveness of the training methods used. Some greyhounds may learn quickly and respond reliably to recall commands within a few weeks of training, while others may take several months or more to fully master the skill.
It’s important to remember that training a greyhound to come when called is an ongoing process that requires patience and persistence. Even after your dog has learned to respond consistently to recall commands, it’s important to continue practicing and reinforcing the behavior in a variety of environments and situations.
2. What should I do if my greyhound doesn’t come when called?
If your greyhound doesn’t come when called, it’s important to avoid punishment or negative reinforcement, as this can cause your dog to become fearful or anxious about coming to you in the future. Instead, try using positive reinforcement techniques such as high-value treats or praise to encourage your dog to come when called.
If your greyhound is particularly prey-driven or easily distracted, it may be helpful to start training in a quiet, enclosed area with few distractions, and gradually build up to more challenging environments. You may also want to consider using a long line or leash to help reinforce the recall command and prevent your dog from running off.
If your greyhound continues to struggle with recall, it may be helpful to enlist the help of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist who can provide personalized guidance and support.
3. How can I make training recall commands more fun for my greyhound?
Training recall commands can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your greyhound. Here are some tips for making the training process more enjoyable:
- Use high-value treats or toys as rewards for coming when called
- Incorporate play and praise into training sessions
- Vary the training environment and make it a game for your dog to find you
- Keep training sessions short and frequent to prevent boredom or burnout
- Make sure your greyhound is getting enough exercise and mental stimulation outside of training sessions
Remember, training your greyhound to come when called is not only a safety issue but can also help strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can help your greyhound become a reliable and obedient companion.
4. What’s the best online course for teaching a greyhound 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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Zyra Capalac
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