Problem #7 · Steve in Action
Recall — Not Coming When Called
See this. Dog's running toward the street, owner's chasing, screaming "come back!" The dog just thinks it's a game. Tails up, having fun. The recall just got worse.
Here's the rule: never, ever use the dog's name in a deep voice or in a negative way. Never, never, never.
Start as a puppy. Call the name high-pitched and positive — "Come here, Spot, come here!" — and reward. The dog builds pleasant associations with the name.
The only negative word we use in a deep voice is "No." Short, deep, to get the dog's attention. Two seconds later, calm and positive: "This is your chew toy." That's the sequence.
Brand closer: The dog just wants your attention.
Anti-pattern cartoon · Steve in Action · #7 of 50