Teaching your dog that their name means 'look at me.' A short, focused exercise that builds the attentiveness everything else depends on.
Your dog's name is the starting point for almost every other skill you'll teach. When it reliably gets their attention, you can use it to redirect, recall, and signal that a cue is coming. Here's how to build that response.
Use small, soft treats your dog responds to well. Work in a calm spot with few distractions, somewhere your dog is already comfortable. Sessions of 5 minutes or less work better than longer ones. A clicker or a short verbal marker like "yes" will help you time the reward to the exact moment your dog looks at you.
With your dog nearby, say their name once in a normal voice. The moment they glance toward you, reward immediately. At this stage, any movement of the head in your direction counts. You're teaching your dog that hearing their name predicts something good from you.
After a few successful reps, hold the reward until your dog makes clear eye contact. Say the name once, then wait. The instant their eyes meet yours, say "yes" or click, then give the treat. Run 5–10 repetitions, then end the session.
If your dog doesn't respond, don't repeat the name. Repeating it teaches your dog that the first few times don't require a response. Move a step closer if needed, then try again. One clean repetition is worth more than several unanswered ones.
Once your dog responds well in a calm spot, call their name when they're mildly occupied — sniffing the floor, watching something nearby. If they look up at you, reward it right away. This builds the habit of checking in with you even when something else has their attention.
Most dogs start responding consistently within a few short sessions. Give it a try today — a handful of treats and five minutes is all you need to get started.