Good Dog WeekThe Name Game: Teach Your Puppy Their Name Means Something Good
A puppy's name should work like a magic word that means 'look at me, good things happen'. Teaching this early makes every other bit of training easier, and it builds the foundation for come when called.
You need
- 20 small, soft treats
- A quiet room with few distractions
- A puppy who isn't tired, full or overexcited
How to play
- Say your puppy's name once in a happy voice.
- The moment they look at you, even for a second, mark it with 'yes' or a clicker.
- Give a treat straight away, right by your leg or face so they learn looking at you pays off.
- Wait a few seconds, let them get distracted, then say the name again.
- Repeat 10 to 15 times, then take a break. Do a few short sessions a day rather than one long one.
- Once they're reliably spinning round indoors, try it in the garden or on a walk with easy distractions.
Make it harder
- Say the name when your puppy is sniffing something interesting
- Try it with another person or a toy in the room as a mild distraction
- Use the name to start a short recall, calling them to you after they look
Safety
Only ever say your puppy's name in a warm, upbeat tone and pair it with something good. Never use their name before a correction or anything unpleasant, or they'll learn to ignore it or feel worried when they hear it. If your puppy seems anxious or shuts down rather than curious, chat to a certified trainer or behaviourist.