Name recognition

Name recognition is a helpful tool for your new puppy or new rescue dog to learn their name. Here are some tips and tricks to help you teach your pup name recognition.

Start by saying your dog’s name; if the dog looks at you, say yes and reward it with a treat. Move to a different spot, do the same thing again, and reward. Do this first in the house since it is a low-distracting area. If you say your dog's name and your dog doesn’t look at you, move to another spot and try it again. If your dog is distracted, show them you have a treat and repeat their name.

Once your dog is pretty good at doing this in the house, you are ready to go outside and try it in the yard with your dog. Another thing that you can do is say your dog’s name before you tell them any cue. For example, say your dog’s name first before telling your dog to sit, lay down, go outside, etc. This way, you are getting your dog used to their name by saying it more often in different situations.

You can also use a clicker to help your dog learn their new name. Start with your dog standing in front of you. Say their name; if your dog looks at you, click, and then give your dog a treat. Try moving around while you are doing this. If your dog doesn’t look at you, move to a new spot and try again. Once your dog does look up at you, click and reward with a treat. Again, start by doing this in the house. Once your dog is responding to doing this well, then you are ready to move outside and do it around in the yard.

I teach this skill in puppy class and the basic obedience class. If you are interested in signing up for a class, please visit our website at: https://www.amysmtndogtraining.com/groupclasses

If you would like to learn more about how to do this, please schedule a private lesson package on our website. https://www.amysmtndogtraining.com/privatelessonpackages