Mick, Come!

 

13 week old Mick is not too young to learn basic skills. Dogs are programmed to earn resources like food and attention from their leaders. Mick already knows how to sit on command. I showed him the treat, backed up a few feet, and then told him, “Mick, Come!”. A little tug on the leash can set his brain and body into motion.

You can back up several steps as your puppy comes toward you. As soon as he/she arrives reinforce with the resource (food) and share your delight by telling that pupster how good he/she is. Touching (petting and a kiss) are actually the most potent rewards.

Repeat the process hundreds of times but never repeat a command. You want your dog to always be watching and listening for a chance to earn good things.