11 Secrets to Make Your Bulldog Come When Called

Training your bulldog to come when called is an essential skill for any dog owner. Bulldogs are known for their stubborn nature, but with consistent and positive training techniques, you can teach your bulldog to come when called. A reliable recall can be a lifesaver, keeping your dog safe in potentially dangerous situations and giving you peace of mind when out on walks or in public places.

In this article, we will explore some effective training methods to help you teach your bulldog to come when called, building a strong bond between you and your furry friend.

Note: For a complete training, we highly recommend this SpiritDog Online Training Course “Coming When Called”.

1. Start with a Strong Foundation

Before you begin training your bulldog to come when called, it’s crucial to establish a strong bond with your pet. Spend time playing with your dog, engaging in activities they enjoy, and providing positive reinforcement through praise and treats. Building trust and a strong connection with your bulldog will make them more likely to respond positively to your commands.

2. Choose a Distinct Command Word

Select a specific word or phrase for the recall command, such as “come” or “here.” Ensure that the command is distinct from other commands you use and that all family members use the same word consistently. Consistency is critical to avoid confusing your bulldog and ensuring that they understand what you expect from them.

3. Begin Training Your Bulldog in a Controlled Environment

Start training your bulldog to come when called in a controlled, distraction-free environment like your home or a fenced yard. In the early stages of training, it’s essential to minimize distractions to help your dog focus on learning the new command. As your dog becomes more reliable in responding to the recall command, gradually introduce distractions and practice in various environments.

4. Use Positive Reinforcement with Your Bulldog

When training your bulldog to come when called, always use positive reinforcement techniques. Reward your pup with praise, treats, or playtime when they respond to your recall command. This will help create a positive association with the command and motivate your dog to respond consistently. Remember to be patient and consistent in your training, as it may take time for your dog to master the recall command.

If you’re using treats, these are currently the most popular training treats on Amazon.

5. Gradually Increase Distance and Distractions

As your bulldog becomes more reliable in responding to the recall command in a controlled environment, begin to increase the distance between you and your dog during training sessions. Practice calling your dog from various distances and gradually introduce distractions, such as other dogs, people, or toys. This will help your dog learn to respond to the command even in challenging situations.

Related: Looking for the fastest way to train your bulldog to come when called? Try this video course.

6. Make Yourself Interesting and Rewarding to Your Bulldog

To encourage your bulldog to come when called, make yourself more appealing and rewarding to your dog. Use an enthusiastic, high-pitched voice when calling your dog, and reward them with a treat or praise when they respond. You can also try running away from your dog when calling them, as this can entice your dog to chase after you and respond to the recall command.

7. Never Punish Your Bulldog for Coming When Called

It’s essential to avoid punishing your bulldog if they do not immediately respond to the recall command or if they come to you slowly. Punishing your dog can create a negative association with the command and make them less likely to respond in the future. Instead, be patient and continue to practice and reinforce the command using positive reinforcement techniques.

8. Practice the Recall Command Regularly with Your Bulldog

Consistent practice is crucial for training your bulldog to come when called. Incorporate recall training into your dog’s daily routine, and practice the command in various environments and situations. This will help reinforce the behavior and make it more reliable over time.

9. Use a Long Training Leash on Your Bulldog

When transitioning from a controlled environment to a more open space, consider using a long training leash to maintain control over your bulldog while they learn to respond to the recall command. This will help you avoid losing control of your dog and provide a safety measure as you gradually increase the distance and distractions during training sessions.

This is the most popular long training leash on Amazon. 

10. Be Patient and Persistent with Your Bulldog

Training your bulldog to come when called takes time, patience, and persistence. Some dogs may learn the command quickly, while others may require more time and consistent practice. Be patient with your dog and maintain a positive attitude during training sessions. Remember that every dog is unique, and the key to success is consistent practice and positive reinforcement.

11. Use a Professional Online Bulldog Training Course

While this article provides many helpful tips for training your bulldog, you can increase your chances of success by enlisting the help of a professional online dog trainer. We love the SpiritDog online courses, since its includes unlimited questions with a real dog trainer.

You can check out their Teach Your Bulldog to Come Online Course Here

In conclusion, training your bulldog to come when called is an essential skill that can keep your furry friend safe and give you peace of mind. It is important to remember that consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key to successful training. Use rewards and praise to encourage your bulldog’s good behavior, and avoid punishment or negative reinforcement. With time and dedication, you can teach your bulldog to come when called, strengthening the bond between you and your beloved pet. Remember, training is an ongoing process, so keep practicing and reinforcing good behavior, and your bulldog will become a well-behaved and obedient companion.

More Frequently Asked Questions For Training Your Bulldog

1. How long does it take to train a bulldog to come when called?

Training your bulldog to come when called requires patience and consistency. The time it takes to train your bulldog depends on a variety of factors, such as your bulldog’s age, temperament, and previous training experiences.

If your bulldog is a puppy, they may learn more quickly, as they are still in the early stages of learning and are more receptive to new experiences. On the other hand, if your bulldog is an adult and has had little to no training, it may take longer to establish a reliable recall.

Generally, it is recommended to start training your bulldog as early as possible and to practice consistently every day. Short training sessions of 5-10 minutes, two to three times a day, can be more effective than longer sessions.

Remember that every dog is different and will learn at their own pace. Be patient and consistent, and you will eventually see progress in your bulldog’s recall abilities.

2. What should I do if my bulldog doesn’t come when called?

If your bulldog doesn’t come when called, it may be frustrating, but it is important not to punish or scold them. This can create a negative association with coming when called and may make your bulldog more resistant to training in the future.

Instead, try to identify the reason why your bulldog is not responding to your call. It could be that they are distracted by something in their environment, such as a squirrel or another dog. In this case, try to limit distractions during training sessions and use high-value treats or toys to get your bulldog’s attention.

It could also be that your bulldog has not yet fully learned the recall command. If this is the case, go back to basics and practice the recall command in a quiet, controlled environment with few distractions. Start by calling your bulldog’s name and rewarding them with a treat or praise when they come to you. Gradually increase the distance and difficulty of the recall command over time.

Remember to always use positive reinforcement and rewards to encourage good behavior. With time and patience, your bulldog will learn to come when called.

3. How can I reinforce my bulldog’s recall training?

Reinforcing your bulldog’s recall training is essential for maintaining a reliable recall. Here are some tips to reinforce your bulldog’s recall training:

Practice regularly: Continue to practice recall training with your bulldog regularly, even after they have learned the command. This will help keep the command fresh in their mind and reinforce good behavior.
Use high-value rewards: Use high-value treats or toys to reward your bulldog when they come when called. This will make the recall command more enjoyable for your bulldog and encourage them to come when called in the future.
Vary your rewards: Vary the type of rewards you use to keep your bulldog interested and motivated. Use treats, toys, or even a game of fetch as a reward for good recall behavior.
Gradually increase difficulty: Gradually increase the distance and difficulty of the recall command over time. Start in a controlled environment with few distractions and gradually increase the distance and distractions over time.
Stay positive: Always use positive reinforcement and avoid punishment or negative reinforcement. This will encourage good behavior and help strengthen the bond between you and your bulldog.

In conclusion, training your bulldog to come when called requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Remember to start training early, identify the reasons why your bulldog may not be responding to your call, and reinforce good behavior with high-value rewards and regular training sessions.

4. What’s the best online course for teaching a bulldog to come when called? 

At iHeartDogs, we recommend the SpiritDog online course “Coming When Called.” The course includes unlimited questions with a real dog trainer.

iHeartDogs is reader supported. Our articles contain affiliate links where we are paid a small commission for linking to a product at no additional cost to the reader. 

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