Published on April 26 by Liza
When it comes to training a puppy, particularly in mastering a recall command, many owners overlook the power of their furry friend's sense of smell. While commands like "come" are typically associated with verbal cues, relying solely on auditory and visual cues may not be the most effective approach. Instead, tapping into your dog's keen sense of smell can be a game-changer in reinforcing desired behaviors.
In essence, a recall involves prompting your puppy or dog to return to you upon hearing the command. However, rather than focusing solely on verbal commands, consider incorporating scent into your training regimen. By waving a tempting scent, such as food, in front of your dog's nose, you're activating their natural instinct to follow the source of the aroma. This taps into their innate hierarchy of senses, where the nose takes precedence over the eyes and ears.
In practice, this can be demonstrated by presenting the scent to your puppy, prompting them to follow it with their nose. As they begin to move towards you, use the recall command ("Raffles come," for instance) to reinforce the desired action. Once your dog reaches you, offer positive reinforcement in the form of a reward, such as a treat, while using a marker word like "yes" to signify their success.
Consistency and patience are key when training your dog, whether they're a puppy or an adult. By incorporating scent-based training methods and prioritizing their natural instincts, you can effectively teach your furry companion the recall command while strengthening your bond along the way. Remember, earning your dog's loyalty is a process that requires dedication, understanding, and a willingness to meet their instinctual needs.
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