How Do I Teach My Yorkshire Terrier To Come When Called?

Key Takeaways:

• Consistent training, positive reinforcement, and rewards are key to teaching a Yorkshire Terrier to come when called.
• Start training in a distraction-free environment and gradually increase the level of distractions.
• Use a distinct and consistent command, such as “come” or “here,” and avoid using the dog’s name negatively.
• Remember to be patient and understanding, as every dog learns at their own pace.

Are you tired of constantly chasing after your Yorkshire Terrier when they dash away at lightning speed? Trust me, I’ve been there too.

But imagine a world where your Yorkshire Terrier comes running back to you at the sound of your voice.

Not only does teaching your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend, but it also ensures their safety and makes managing them in different situations much easier. If you’re ready to embark on the journey of training your Yorkshire Terrier, keep reading to discover the basics, steps, and tips to achieve a successful recall command.

Step	Description
1.	Start indoors, in a calm and familiar environment.
2.	Use a *high-value treat* that your Yorkshire Terrier loves.
3.	Choose a clear and distinct recall command, such as “Come” or “Here.”
4.	Get down to your dog’s level and show enthusiasm.
5.	Call your dog’s name and give the recall command.
6.	Immediately reward your Yorkshire Terrier with the treat and praise.
7.	Practice recall multiple times a day, gradually increasing the distance between you and your dog.
8.	Vary the training locations for better generalization.
9.	Use positive reinforcement and never punish or scold your dog for not responding.
10.	Be patient, consistent, and persistent in your training efforts.

Why is teaching your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called important?

Building a strong bond and trust with your Yorkshire Terrier

Building a strong bond and trust with your Yorkshire Terrier is key to their obedience and overall well-being. Spend quality time with your pup, providing regular exercise and affection.

Be consistent with your training and use positive reinforcement techniques.

Establish clear boundaries and rules, but also give them space to explore and be themselves. Show patience and understanding, and always reward their good behavior.

With time and effort, you’ll build a strong bond and trust that will make your Yorkshire Terrier eager to listen and come when called.

Ensuring your Yorkshire Terrier’s safety

Ensuring your Yorkshire Terrier’s safety is of utmost importance. Here are a few key ways to keep your furry friend out of harm’s way:

• Secure your home: Make sure your yard is fenced and escape-proof to prevent your Yorkshire Terrier from wandering off. Keep doors and windows closed and consider using baby gates to block off certain areas of your home.
• Supervise outdoor activities: When your Yorkshire Terrier is outside, keep a close eye on them. Small dogs can easily become targets for predators or get lost if left unsupervised.
• Use a leash: Always walk your Yorkshire Terrier on a leash, even if they seem well-behaved. This ensures they stay close to you and reduces the risk of accidents, such as running into traffic.
• Microchip and ID tags: In case your Yorkshire Terrier does manage to escape, make sure they have a microchip with updated contact information. Additionally, attach identification tags to their collar with your phone number and address.
• Train the “come” command: Teaching your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called is crucial for their safety. Practice in a controlled environment, rewarding them with treats and praise each time they respond correctly.

By following these safety measures, you’ll be taking significant steps to protect your Yorkshire Terrier and ensure they have a happy and secure life.

Easier management of your Yorkshire Terrier in various situations

Easier management of your Yorkshire Terrier in various situations means having more control over your furry friend. Whether you’re at home, in public, or around other people and animals, teaching your Yorkie to come when called can make a big difference.

You can avoid potential dangers, prevent them from running off, and keep them safe.

It also helps with daily routines like feeding, grooming, and walking, making it easier to handle any situation that may arise. By training your Yorkie to come when called, you’ll have a well-behaved and obedient companion, making your life much easier.

Understanding the basics of Yorkshire Terrier training

Positive reinforcement as an effective training method

Positive reinforcement is a highly effective training method for Yorkshire Terriers. It involves rewarding your dog with treats, praise, or playtime when they exhibit the desired behavior, such as coming when called.

By using positive reinforcement, you are reinforcing good behavior and encouraging your Yorkshire Terrier to repeat it in the future.

This method helps to create a strong bond between you and your dog and makes training a positive and enjoyable experience for both of you. With consistency and patience, positive reinforcement can be a powerful tool in teaching your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called.

Identifying your Yorkshire Terrier’s motivation and rewards

Identifying your Yorkshire Terrier’s motivation and rewards is essential for successful training. Here’s how you can do it:

• Observe their preferences: Pay attention to what motivates your Yorkshire Terrier. Do they get excited about treats, praise, or playtime? This will help you determine the most effective rewards for training.
• Experiment with rewards: Try using different rewards during training sessions to see which ones your Yorkshire Terrier responds to the most. Some dogs may be more motivated by food, while others may be motivated by toys or attention.
• Use positive reinforcement: Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool for training Yorkshire Terriers. When they perform a desired behavior, reward them immediately with their preferred motivator. This will reinforce the behavior and encourage them to repeat it in the future.
• Consistency is key: Once you’ve identified the rewards that work best for your Yorkshire Terrier, be consistent in using them. This will help your dog understand what behaviors are rewarded and encourage them to continue learning and obeying commands.

Establishing a consistent training routine

To establish a consistent training routine for your Yorkshire Terrier, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First and foremost, consistency is key.

Make sure to allocate a specific time each day for training sessions.

This will help your dog understand that training is a regular and important part of their routine. In addition to consistency in timing, it’s also important to establish consistency in your training methods.

Stick to a set of commands and cues that you will use consistently throughout the training process.

This will help your Yorkshire Terrier understand what is expected of them and make the training process more effective. Another crucial aspect of establishing a consistent training routine is to set clear boundaries and rules for your dog.

Consistency in enforcing these rules will help your Yorkshire Terrier understand what behaviors are acceptable and what behaviors are not.

Lastly, integrate training into other aspects of your Yorkshire Terrier’s daily routine. For example, incorporate training commands during walks or meal times.

This will help reinforce the training and make it a seamless part of their daily life.

By establishing a consistent training routine for your Yorkshire Terrier, you will be setting them up for success and creating a strong bond between you and your furry friend.

Steps to teach your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called

Choosing a clear and distinct recall command

When choosing a recall command for your Yorkshire Terrier, it’s important to keep it clear and distinct. Use a single word or short phrase that is easy to say and remember.

Avoid commands that sound similar to other common phrases or words you use in everyday conversation.

Some examples of clear recall commands for your Yorkshire Terrier could be “Come,” “Here,” or “Return.” Remember to use the chosen command consistently and positively reinforce your dog when they respond to it.

Practicing recall in a controlled environment with minimal distractions

To teach your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called, it’s important to practice recall in a controlled environment with minimal distractions. This means finding a quiet and secure space, such as your backyard or a quiet room indoors, where there are minimal distractions for your dog.

Avoid practicing in busy areas or places with lots of people or other animals.

By creating this controlled environment, you can focus on teaching your Yorkshire Terrier the command to come without distractions getting in the way.

Gradually increasing distractions and distance

To teach your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called, it’s important to gradually increase distractions and distance. This will help your furry friend learn to respond to your command no matter what distractions or distance may be present.

Start by practicing in an area with minimal distractions and a short distance.

Once your dog is consistently coming when called in this setting, slowly introduce more distractions, such as other dogs or toys. Additionally, gradually increase the distance between you and your pup when giving the command.

This will build their confidence and reinforce the behavior.

Reinforcing the recall command with rewards and praise

To reinforce the recall command with rewards and praise, it’s important to make coming when called a positive experience for your Yorkshire Terrier. Here’s how you can do it:

• Use high-value rewards: Find treats or toys that your Yorkshire Terrier absolutely loves. These should be special items that they don’t get in their regular meals or playtime. By offering these high-value rewards when they come to you, you’ll create a strong motivation for them to respond to your recall command.
• Be enthusiastic with praise: Dogs thrive on positive reinforcement, so make sure to shower your Yorkshire Terrier with praise when they come when called. Use an excited, happy tone of voice and give them plenty of pats, scratches, and verbal affirmations. Let them know how proud you are of them for coming to you.
• Keep sessions short and frequent: Practice recall exercises in short sessions throughout the day. This will help your Yorkshire Terrier stay engaged and focused. Remember to always end on a positive note, so your dog associates the recall command with rewards and praise.
• Gradually decrease rewards: Once your Yorkshire Terrier becomes proficient at coming when called, you can start decreasing the frequency of rewards. Instead of giving a treat or toy every time, offer them intermittently. This will help reinforce the behavior and keep them motivated to respond to the recall command.

Troubleshooting common challenges while training recall

Training recall can sometimes be a bit challenging, but don’t worry, it’s totally normal! Here are some common challenges you might face while teaching your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called, along with some troubleshooting tips:

• Lack of motivation: If your Yorkshire Terrier isn’t motivated to come when called, try using high-value treats or toys as rewards. Make the act of coming to you a fun experience for them.
• Distractions: Dogs get easily distracted, especially when there are exciting things going on around them. Start training in a quiet, controlled environment, and gradually increase the distractions as your dog gets better at recall.
• Inconsistent training: Consistency is key when it comes to recall training. Make sure everyone in your household is using the same command and rewarding your dog for coming to them. This helps reinforce the behavior.
• Fear or anxiety: Some dogs may have fear or anxiety issues that can hinder their recall training. If this is the case, consider working with a professional dog trainer who can help you address these underlying issues.
• Unrealistic expectations: Remember that every dog learns at their own pace. Avoid getting frustrated if your Yorkshire Terrier doesn’t master recall right away. Stay patient, keep practicing, and celebrate even small progress.
• Reinforcing unwanted behavior: Be careful not to inadvertently reinforce unwanted behavior during recall training. Avoid chasing your dog if they run away, as this may actually make them think it’s a fun game. Instead, try turning away and encouraging them to come to you.

Incorporating obedience training for better recall

Teaching foundational commands such as “sit” and “stay”

To teach your Yorkshire Terrier foundational commands like “sit” and “stay,” start by finding a quiet and distraction-free environment. First, grab a handful of small, soft treats that your pup loves.

Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose and slowly move it upwards.

As their head goes up, their bottom should naturally go down into a sitting position. Once they are sitting, say “sit” and give them the treat as a reward.

To teach “stay,” start with your pup in a sitting position.

Show them a treat in your hand and say “stay” while taking a step back. If your dog stays put, reward them with praise and the treat.

Gradually increase the distance and duration of the “stay” as your dog becomes more comfortable.

Remember to always reward them for successfully following the command. Consistency is key when teaching commands, so practice these exercises daily in short bursts.

Use positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, to motivate your Yorkshire Terrier.

With time and patience, they will learn how to sit and stay on command, setting a solid foundation for further training. Keep in mind that each dog learns at their own pace, so be patient and celebrate their progress along the way!

Implementing recall exercises during obedience training sessions

During obedience training sessions, it is important to incorporate recall exercises to teach your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called. Here are some ways you can implement these exercises:

• Start in a controlled environment: Begin the recall exercises in a quiet space with minimal distractions. This will help your Yorkshire Terrier focus on you and the training.
• Use positive reinforcement: When your Yorkshire Terrier comes to you when called, reward them with praise, treats, or a favorite toy. Positive reinforcement will help reinforce the desired behavior and make your dog more likely to come when called in the future.
• Gradually increase distractions: As your Yorkshire Terrier becomes more proficient at coming when called in a controlled environment, gradually introduce distractions. Start with low-level distractions, such as mild sounds or toys, and gradually work your way up to more challenging distractions.
• Practice in different locations: Once your Yorkshire Terrier is consistently coming when called in a controlled environment, it’s time to practice in different locations. This will help your dog generalize the behavior and respond to your recall command regardless of the surroundings.

Reinforcing good behavior through positive reinforcement

Reinforcing good behavior through positive reinforcement is key when it comes to training your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called. First and foremost, remember to reward your dog with praise, treats, or playtime every time they respond to your call.

This helps them associate coming when called with a positive experience.

Consistency is important, so be sure to reward them every time they come, even if it takes a few tries. Additionally, using a consistent command such as “come” or “here” will help your dog understand what you expect from them.

With time and patience, positive reinforcement can be an effective tool in teaching your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called.

Maintaining a successful recall command

Regularly practicing recall in various environments and situations

Regularly practicing recall in various environments and situations is essential for teaching your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called. By exposing your dog to different settings, such as the park, your backyard, or even inside your home, you can help them generalize the recall command and understand that it applies in any situation.

During your practice sessions, try to introduce distractions gradually.

Start with low-level distractions, such as toys or treats, and then progress to more challenging ones, like other dogs or people. This will help your dog learn to focus on you and come back to you, even when there are exciting things around.

Varying the situations in which you practice recall is also important.

For example, you could call your dog from a distance, when they are engaged in play, or even when they are sniffing around. This will ensure that they associate the recall command with different scenarios and learn to respond reliably in any situation.

Remember to use positive reinforcement, praise, and rewards when your Yorkshire Terrier comes to you when called.

This will reinforce the behavior and make them more likely to respond in the future. Regular practice, consistency, and patience are key to successfully teaching your dog to come when called in various environments and situations.

Supplementing recall training with leash training

Supplementing recall training with leash training is an effective way to ensure your Yorkshire Terrier comes when called. First and foremost, make sure your dog is comfortable wearing a leash and walking on it.

Start by holding the leash loosely, allowing your dog to explore and get used to the sensation.

Once your dog is comfortable, begin incorporating recall exercises while on the leash. Call your dog’s name in an enthusiastic tone and gently tug on the leash to get their attention.

Reward them with praise and a treat when they come to you.

Gradually increase the distance between you and your dog, always keeping them on the leash. Practice in different environments with distractions to reinforce the recall command.

Remember to use positive reinforcement and never punish or forcefully pull your dog towards you.

Consistency is key when supplementing recall training with leash training. Practice regularly, gradually reducing the reliance on the leash and rewarding your Yorkshire Terrier for coming when called.

With time and patience, your dog will become reliable with their recall, leash or no leash.

Using long-line training for added control and safety

Using long-line training for added control and safety is a great technique to teach your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called. It involves attaching a long line to your dog’s collar or harness and allowing them to move freely while still maintaining control.

The long line should be between 15-30 feet in length, providing enough space for your dog to explore while still allowing you to reel them in if necessary.

This gives you added control over their movements and prevents them from running off or getting into dangerous situations. Start by practicing in a safe, enclosed area like a backyard or a quiet park.

Allow your Yorkshire Terrier to explore at the end of the long line while you hold the other end.

Call their name in an enthusiastic tone and then give the command “come” or “here.” If your dog doesn’t respond immediately, gently reel them in using the long line. Once they reach you, praise and reward them with treats or affection.

Repeat this process regularly, gradually increasing the distance between you and your dog as they become more reliable with their recall.

Remember to stay patient and consistent throughout the training process. It may take some time for your Yorkshire Terrier to fully understand and comply with the recall command.

With practice and positive reinforcement, you’ll be able to confidently call your dog back to you, even in distracting or potentially dangerous situations.

Continuing to reward and reinforce desired behavior

Continuing to reward and reinforce desired behavior is key in teaching your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called. Remember to keep the rewards consistent and use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and play.

Use these rewards every time your dog successfully responds to the recall command.

Additionally, it’s important to practice the recall command in different environments and gradually increase distractions to ensure that your dog understands and obeys the command in various situations.

Common mistakes to avoid when teaching recall to your Yorkshire Terrier

Inconsistency in training

Inconsistency in training can be a big hurdle when teaching your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called. Imagine this: sometimes you reward your pup for coming, other times you don’t.

Or maybe you sometimes use the command word “come” and other times you use a different word.

This mixed messaging confuses your furry friend and makes it harder for them to understand what you want. When it comes to training recall, consistency is key.

By using the same command word consistently, always rewarding your pup when they come, and avoiding mixed messages, you can help your Yorkshire Terrier understand what is expected of them.

Using punishment or negative reinforcement

Using punishment or negative reinforcement is not recommended when teaching recall to your Yorkshire Terrier. Punishment can lead to fear, anxiety, and a breakdown of trust between you and your dog.

It can also make your Yorkshire Terrier hesitant to come to you when called, as they associate it with something negative.

Instead, focus on positive reinforcement techniques, such as using treats, praise, and rewards, to encourage your Yorkshire Terrier to come to you when called. This will create a positive association and make the training experience more enjoyable for both you and your dog.

Failing to provide suitable rewards and motivation

Failing to provide suitable rewards and motivation can hinder your Yorkshire Terrier’s recall training. Dogs, including Yorkshire Terriers, are motivated by rewards.

Without offering enticing incentives, your dog may lose interest and not respond when called.

So, what can you do? Firstly, choose rewards that your Yorkie finds irresistible.

It could be tasty treats, verbal praises, or their favorite toy.

Experiment with different rewards to identify what motivates your furry friend the most. This will help keep their attention and make the training process more enjoyable for them.

Secondly, be consistent with rewards.

Whenever your Yorkshire Terrier comes to you when called, reward them immediately. This reinforces the behavior and encourages them to repeat it in the future.

Delayed or inconsistent rewards may confuse your dog and diminish their motivation to come when called.

Lastly, gradually reduce the frequency of rewards as your Yorkie becomes more proficient in recall training. Start by rewarding every time, then gradually switch to occasional rewards while still offering verbal praise.

This will help maintain their motivation and reinforce the desired behavior.

Overwhelming your Yorkshire Terrier with distractions

When teaching your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called, it’s important to avoid overwhelming them with distractions. This can make it difficult for them to focus on you and respond to the command.

Instead, start in a quiet and familiar environment before gradually increasing the level of distractions.

Remember to be patient and consistent with your training, and reward your Yorkie with treats and praise when they come to you successfully.

Seeking professional help and guidance

Consulting a professional dog trainer or behaviorist

If you’re struggling to teach your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called, consulting a professional dog trainer or behaviorist is a great option. These experts have the knowledge and experience to assess your dog’s behavior and provide tailored advice and training techniques.

They can help you understand why your dog may not be responding to your commands, and offer effective strategies to improve recall.

With their guidance, you’ll be on your way to teaching your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called in no time!

Joining obedience classes or workshops

Joining obedience classes or workshops is a great way to teach your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called. These classes are specifically designed to help you train your dog and improve their obedience skills.

In these classes, you’ll learn techniques and tips from professional trainers who have experience working with dogs of all breeds.

During these classes, you’ll get hands-on practice and guidance on how to teach your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called. Trainers will provide you with step-by-step instructions and show you how to effectively communicate with your dog.

They’ll also give you feedback and address any specific challenges you may be facing.

By joining obedience classes or workshops, you’ll not only learn how to teach your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called, but you’ll also have the opportunity to socialize your dog with other dogs and people. This is important for their overall development and helps them become well-rounded and confident.

Additionally, being in a group setting allows your Yorkshire Terrier to learn from other dogs and observe their behavior.

This can help reinforce the training and make it easier for them to understand and follow commands.

Utilizing online resources and communities for guidance and support

When it comes to teaching your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called, online resources and communities can be valuable source of guidance and support. You can find a wealth of information on training techniques, tips, and tricks from experienced dog owners and trainers.

Online forums and social media groups dedicated to Yorkshire Terriers provide a platform for asking questions, sharing experiences, and getting advice.

Additionally, there are many websites and blogs that offer step-by-step guides and videos on training your dog to come when called. By utilizing these online resources and communities, you can access a wealth of knowledge and connect with fellow dog enthusiasts who can offer guidance and support along your training journey.

Final Verdict

Teaching your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called is an essential aspect of their training that can have numerous benefits. By building a strong bond and trust with your Yorkie, you can ensure their safety and easily manage them in various situations.

Understanding the basics of training, such as positive reinforcement and establishing a consistent routine, is crucial for success.

The steps involved in teaching recall, incorporating obedience training, and maintaining a successful recall command are all important components. It’s vital to avoid common mistakes and seek professional help if needed.

Remember, with patience, consistency, and love, you can train your Yorkshire Terrier to come when called and enhance your relationship with them.