Probably the most
common behavioural problem I deal with concerns recall, and yet it is one
of the easiest to avoid. What usually happens is that all the while
the puppy is at the stage where it follows its owner around, getting underfoot,
people do nothing about capitalising on its need to be with them. Then,
when it gets more adventurous and starts to investigate an exciting world,
they call it back to restrain it.
From the puppies point of view, responding to its name means that its fun
is brought to an abrupt close; it is put on the lead, or in a cage or car,
just when it was enjoying itself sniffing about or making new friends. Many
people will call a dog to scold it, and more will call it for something unpleasant,
such as having eye drops put in or its nails cut. Calling a dog for
nothing weakens the recall, too. Children are especially prone to calling
a dog's name over and over, just because they can.
The key to good recall is to lay sound foundations early and then to reinforce
them at every opportunity by calling the dog for pleasant experiences and
good reason. If you call the dog away froma rewarding experience, provide
it with something equally or more rewarding instead.
Training a newly-aquired mature dog to recall on command is a fair bit harder,
but the same basic principles apply, where returning yo tou should always
be a pleasant experience. The time will come when the rewards of disobedience
beckon strongly and then you will value the early work you have put in, while
others who have done nothing with their dogs will tell you how "lucky" you
are that your dog comes when called.
reprinted with kind permission from Alastair Balmain
Deputy Editor:Shooting Times &
Country Magazine
Blue Fin Building, 110 Southwark Street SE1 0SU
Tel: 020 3148 4750
The above information is simply informational. It's intent is not
to replace the advice of a veterinarian nor to assist you in making a diagnosis
of your pet. Please consult with your own veterinarian for confirmation of
any diagnosis. Your pets life may depend on it.
