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Puppy won't come close when called at dog park. Any training tips?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 9 months and 10 days old | 37 lbs

My puppy listens very well in the home. We have been going to an off leash dog park since she was four months. She always stays by me and comes over when called, but never close enough that I can touch her, and in order to leave I have to trap her, trick her or if she gets scared by a bigger dog she will come running to me. I'm at the end of my stick and no longer want to take her there. Any suggestions?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on May 9th, 2017

Use a long lead and trained her anew to come when called. Pay out short distances initially and call her. If she doesn't come, gently begin reeling her in. Praise and reward her when she complies. Allow her longer and longer distances as she progresses. Do not let her off leash until she is consistently returning when called. Be firm, be consistent and be patient.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on May 25th, 2017

    Four months is very young still, and training can go a long way. The best first step is to practice recalls on a long-leash (20-30 feet) so that you can start to get her more solid on her recalls. If she doesn't seem interested in coming, you can play a "game" where you call her in a high-pitched voice and run backwards a bit - most dogs will find this interesting and come to you instead. Be sure to praise and give a favorite treat when she does come. Once she is solid on leash in a distraction free area you can practice on leash with more distractions around such as other dogs, people, toys, etc. After she is a bit more solid while on leash, you can then transition to off leash practice in the dog park or another fenced area.

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