Q: What is the easiest way to teach my puppy his name?
A: This is an important first step in building a relationship between the two of you. As your pup learns to respond to his name and focus his attention on you, teaching other basic commands becomes much easier.
Be consistent in always using the same name, without substituting with nicknames, which may confuse him. Calling your puppy should always be a positive experience for him.
Calling him to scold him or take him for a bath, for example, may result in your pup not wanting to respond to his name, as bad things happen when he does.
Start by saying your puppy’s name in a happy, cheerful voice, and don’t say anything else except his name. When he comes to you or focuses on you, reward him with something positive like a treat, lots of praise or a favourite toy.
Your aim is for him to associate responding to his name with something positive happening. Practise this in short sessions throughout the day, making sure that every time he responds, it’s fun and rewarding.
Practise in different rooms of your home and outside in the garden. Try to avoid distractions, like other pets or children, when your puppy is still learning, so he can focus on you.
Some puppies need more time than others to learn their names and to respond, but with consistent practice and positive training, your pup will soon learn his name and realise that the sound of his name is something to look forward to.
Alyson Kingsley-Hall, behaviourist
