What’s In A Name? Tips For Teaching Your Pet to Come When Called

Discover how to teach your dog their name and check out the top doggy names of the last year! 

Training a dog to learn their name can seem daunting, but it really comes down to a little hard work and a lot of love. By using positive reinforcement methods and repetition, your dog – whether a puppy or an older rescue – can learn their name within weeks or even days. Keep reading for tips on name training, and scroll further to discover the top doggy names of the last year!

When training your dog to learn their name its best to use an approach that works with forms of training: positive reinforcement. Start by having a bag of delicious treats that are out of sight of your dog (on a shelf, wrapped in your pocket, or in your training bag).  Find a quiet time with just you and your pet, and wait until you have an opportunity to get their full attention (no other animals in the room, no TV, etc.). When you say your dog’s name, wait for them to look in your direction. When they look your way say “yes” and simultaneously give them a treat.

Practice this exercise for 10 – 15 minutes three times a day, then throughout the day as needed/able. As your dog becomes more comfortable and looks to you more and more, start moving away to make your dog start coming to you from further distances. Depending on the dog, he or she could be ready for the distance training as early as day one but could need more time. If the distance training is giving you trouble, try this portion of the training on-leash and gently pull the dog toward you when you say their name. The key is to stay consistent, and keep the sessions fun and encouraging so the dog looks forward to them.

Training a dog to learn their name and come when called might just be easier than selecting the name! Below are the top names of the last year, check them out for inspiration! For more information on training and for a free consult from It’s A Dog’s World visit www.ItsADogsWorld.biz.

The Top 10 Male Dog Names

10. Oliver
11. Tucker
12. Bear
13. Duke
14. Rocky
15. Jack
16. Buddy
17. Chopper
18. Charlie
19. Max

The Top 10 Female Dog Names

10. Stella
11. Maggie
12. Bailey
13. Molly
14. Sadie
15. Lola
16. Daisy
17. Luna
18. Lucy
19. Bella