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How to train my 6-month-old puppy who runs away and won't come?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered

My 6months mixed breed dog always runs away whenever he gets a chance, dont listen to our commands, tried giving him treats,scolded him a lot, whenver i call him he comes near and then bolts. He has been with us since he was 3weeks old. Please help

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on May 18th, 2017

Casper is a very cute pup! It sounds like he need some consistent training to help teach him what you want him to do. Scolding him is not recommended, as this may cause him to be afraid of you and doesn't help him understand what you want - this may be part of the reason that he avoids coming to you when you call for him. To teach him how to come when called, you need to practice first inside the house. Call his name in a happy voice, and give him several treats in a row while praising him excitedly as soon as he comes to you. Once he's good at this, you can practice outside on a leash or long line for safety. It's important to reward every time you call him, so that he knows he will always get something wonderful if he comes when you call. Never call him if you don't have treats handy, and never call him to scold him or do something he doesn't like, since this will only teach him to avoid you. For additional training information, I highly recommend the book "Perfect Puppy in 7 Days" by Dr. Sophia Yin. It's a great resource for puppy owners, and should help guide you in how to train your puppy to do other things as well.

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