The "come command"

[4Paws]

Hey Folks,

Is it normal that my 9 week old male is not great on the come command ? i'm trying to offer him treats but he just sits in his bed with that "dopy" look on his face haha.

Is there anything to worry about or is it just with him being so young ? I've managed him to do most other tricks

Wee wee
Paw
sit etc

 

[gmacleod]

Yes, it's normal It takes a bit of time for pups to catch on to that one. As well as treats, try encouraging him to come to you over very short distances - get down to his level, and encourage him with lots of happy joyous noises. And make a big fuss of him when he arrives (then give him a treat). When he gets that one figured out, gradually start increasing the distance you're calling him from.

Here's a short article on teaching your puppy to come to you that might prove handy: http://www.boxerworld.com/puppy/comingtoyou/

 

[Eliot & Co]

yeah, 9 weeks is when they are keen to learn other stuff, like to sit and and bite you... the "come" command may be a little challenge (untill much later really)... don't know why, but al my dogs learned to sit and down, crawl and stay etc on command much before I could trust my puppy to come to me when I call... anyway, if I see my pup come to me, I call him and give him a treat... in addition to trying to teach the command anyway, and I always try to make the experience pleasant...
Eliot is 16 weeks now and although he is very good at learning and generally does come (actually runs most of the time) to me when I call, there always instances when he goes all deaf on me... well, I know boxers have a very selective hearing... .. just like humans...