how to teach a puppy to come to you on command

How to teach a puppy to come to you on command? It’s the skill that turns chaotic park trips into relaxed strolls and prevents heart-stopping moments when your tiny pup darts toward a busy street. For new dog parents in apartments or suburbs alike, mastering this command isn’t just about convenience—it’s about keeping your puppy safe and building trust that lasts a lifetime.

Dogs learn best through association: when “come” means good things happen, they’ll race to obey. Behaviorists call this “positive reinforcement”—rewards strengthen the behavior you want. Puppies between 8–16 weeks are in their critical learning phase, their brains soaking up every connection between actions and outcomes. Think of it like teaching a toddler to respond to their name: consistency and excitement make the lesson stick. A trainer in Seattle puts it simply: “If ‘come’ always brings a tasty treat or their favorite toy, they’ll start looking for opportunities to run to you, not away.”

Start training in a quiet room with no distractions—your living room, not the bustling dog park. Kneel down, open your arms, and use a bright, happy voice: “Come!” or “Here, pup!” When they take even one step toward you, cheer and offer a tiny reward—think freeze-dried chicken or a squeaky toy. Gradually add distance and mild distractions, like a tossed ball nearby, but stop before they get overwhelmed. A Boston couple I worked with practiced during commercial breaks while watching TV; their Corgi pup learned to sprint across the couch to them in a week, just for a pea-sized treat. Never call your puppy to scold them—if “come” means getting in trouble, they’ll hide when they hear it. And never chase them if they run away—turn and jog the other way, clapping gently; their curiosity will usually make them follow.

Legally and culturally, this command ties directly to responsible pet ownership. Most U.S. states require puppies to complete core vaccines (like DHPP) by 16 weeks, and many parks mandate proof of vaccination before entry—keep those vet records handy. When practicing outdoors, always carry poop bags (cities like Denver fine up to $200 for leaving messes) and call your puppy back if they approach other dogs or people without permission—it’s basic park etiquette. In apartments, practice “come” near windows or doors to prevent them from barking at passersby, keeping neighborly peace. Remember: scolding or hitting (never, ever—animal welfare laws in most states discourage punitive methods) erases progress faster than any missed treat.

Consistency beats perfection. Short, daily sessions (5 minutes max) work better than long, frustrating ones. With patience, that wobbly 10-week-old who ignores you today will be the pup who bounds back at the first “come” tomorrow—safe, happy, and ready for all your adventures together.