Teaching a Pointer Pup His Name
Naming a new puppy has always been a struggle. I have no imagination, so I’d rather housetrain a pup than choose his name. That’s why my Pointers end up with names like “King” or “Charlie”.
But, I have managed to learn some tricks about teaching a new Pointer puppy his name. The goal is to teach him to give you his full attention as soon as you say his name. As you start training your Pointer to sit, stay and so forth, you’ll say his name followed by a verbal command. That’s why he needs to know and respond to his name.
Here’s what I’ve learned:
- Your Pointer must always associate his name with positive things. Never say his name and then punish or scold him. That will just teach him to fear or ignore you. Instead, put your pup on a leash and grab a bag of treats.
- Always use an upbeat tone when you say your Pointer’s name. Your tone of voice will tell him that hearing his name is good. Reinforce these positive feelings by praising him and giving him a treat.
- After a few repetitions (and treats!) he should start looking at you every time you say his name. When he does, give him a treat and some praise. Repeat this a few times every day. Once he does this consistently, do away with the treat and just use praise to reward him.
- Never say your dog’s name more than once. You want him to respond the first time, so if he doesn’t look at you right away, give him a gentle tug on the leash. Repeating his name several times will only teach him he can wait that many times before he’s expected to respond.