How do I get my pet to come when I call their name and stop ignoring me?

Question

Why does my pet ignore me when I call him or use his name. He is very well taken care of and a loving member of our family . Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 16 lbs

Bette Isacoff · Accepted Answer

In the beginning, pets come to their owners because they are in a new environment, and the human is their source of food, water, treats, pets, etc. Once they become more comfortable, they notice that there's a whole big world out there, and you are not so unique anymore. So they don't come running just because they're called. As with any othercommand or behavior, they have to be taught to come. Put Ricky on a leash and have him sit. Standin front of him and tell him to stay (this may take some practrice before he'll actually remain in place). Go to the end of the leash, wait a few seconds, and then call "Ricky, come!" (Not "come, Ricky'--there is a difference!) If he starts to come before you've called him, or even finished calling him, say "no" and put him back into a sit. If he waits until you've called and he comes, praise him! If he doesn't move, give a very gentle tug on the leash after you've called and encourage him to come. Once he is very reliable, start running backwards as he's coming towards you, to increase the distance. When you're ready to take the leash off (after he does it right every single time), put him in your smallest bathroom with you and close the door. Do the same thing as above. If he doesn't come or wanders around because he's not ont he leash, you can easily get him and correct him. As he progresses, you can move to larger rooms or the garage. DO not try this outdoors until you are absolutely sure he will come. If he does not, and you cannot correct him because he is out of reach, it will set your training way back. Good luck with this!

How do I get my pet to come when I call their name and stop ignoring me?

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