Name game for dogs: how to play
Say your dog's name, mark when they look, reward. The quickest way to get a dog who turns to you on the first call.
- Time
- 3 min
- Energy
- Low
- Space
- Small room
You'll need
- 10 tiny treats
Set up
Start in a quiet room. Use a happy voice.
How to play
Say your dog's name once.
The moment your dog looks at you, say "Yes" and give a treat.
Wait until they look away, then say the name again.
Do 10 reps and stop.
Next sessions: say the name when your dog is sniffing something, or when you're in another room.
Over a week, practise in the garden, on a walk, in a park.
House rules
- Name once. If no look, make a kissy noise or move, then reward the look.
- Never use the name to scold.
- Make it easier
- Say the name when your dog is already nearly looking at you.
- Make it harder
- Say the name during play, when another person is talking, or on a walk near a bird.
Signs it's having fun
Fast head turns and a soft, happy face.
Stop if you see
Your dog stops turning after a few reps. They're full or bored: stop for now.
Safety
Safety- Play with tiny treats to protect the waistline.
- Deaf dogs: use a gentle touch or a light flash instead of the name, then a thumbs up as the marker.
Sources
- Brain games: Find It, Touch, Let's Go, Look (SPCA of Texas)
- Fun cognitive training games for dogs (AKC)
Written from these sources and checked against vet and trainer guidance. General guidance, not veterinary advice.
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