New dog question

[sbk1234]

We just adopted a new dog. He's a sweet, wonderful 18-month-old Shepherd mix. He even gets along with our bossy poodle and cats. Issue is he came from an abusive situation. He's understandably extremely timid, although after only a week we are seeing him relax around our family. The only issue is trying to teach him a recall. In the house he won't come when we call. I know some of that may be just him needing to learn his name.
The problem is trying to get him back into the house when he's in the yard. He won't come in, and runs from us if we go to him. He has even spent several nights outside because he wouldn't come in. So far, the weather has been warm enough, but that will change sooner or later. This creates a safety issue for him since situations arise when a dog MUST come right when called.
My question is what would be effective ways of teaching him to come when called and come in the house when it's time? Obviously, I will not consider ANY options that include hitting or hurting him in ANY way. Thanks.

 

[Timewalker]

The way to train any dog or cat (yes, cats can be trained, to some extent) is to get them to associate the behavior you want with something good - praise and treats. You'll have to commit to regular training, though - regular schedule, no skipping. Consistency is extremely important. Keep in mind that this could take weeks.

Honestly, my best advice would be to consult someone local who could advise you. Perhaps your vet could recommend someone who could at least give you advice, if there aren't any trainers in your area.

 

[auntiehill]

Like @Timewalker said, it takes time and repetition --and a lot of patience. Also keep in mind that you shouldn't use the dog's name when punishing him; he should only associate his name with positive things. Try treats, affection, favorite toys, etc, and just keep doing it. You might also try leaving his leash on all the time; it makes it easier to control him. If he doesn't come when you call, go get him, take the leash and silently take him where you want him to be. Then take him back and forth on the leash, over and over and over. If he struggles or fights, just give a quick tug on the leash to get his attention--not hard, just enough to snap him out of his freakout. Since he's timid, it's important not to yell or sound angry, especially when you call his name. Not always easy. I wish you luck.

We had two retrievers growing up. One was totally mellow and learned right away. The second was timid and hyper; he would come to my Mom right away but not Dad, because he was always yelling and fussing at the dog. Sometimes constantly calling the dog's name over and over, especially when you're frustrated, actually over-stimulates the hyper or nervous dogs and makes your job all the more difficult.

Just my two cents.

 

[Kirby]

I agree with Timewalker . Get a trainer for some help. We adopted Jemma, our Lab/Corgi/Dachshund mix about a year and a half ago, and a couple of training sessions came with the adoption fee. The trainer evaluated her, and then trained US on how to train her.
We had to be very consistent, and involved everyone in the family, even my young daughter. It took a couple of months, but she is extremely responsive when we call her.
It's worth the cost of a few lessons.

 

[UncleRogi]

I also agree with the Cat -loving lady. Heres a thought...keep tabs on the feeding ritual, and bring
it closer to the house each day, until the scamp only gets to eat indoors...food can be
a hi motivator for pupps

Good luck, my friend, and remember the dog is a person that doesn't speak English!

 

[sbk1234]

Actually, we just met with a dog trainer last night. She gave us a lot of good instructions, and pointed out what we've been doing wrong. Even still, we've slowly seen some improvement. I know I have to be MUCH more patient. We're dedicated, and he'll grow to know he's loved and taken care of.

 

[Kirby]

Great to hear Sbk. Keep it up, consistency is key.

 

[Refuge]

Actually, we just met with a dog trainer last night. She gave us a lot of good instructions, and pointed out what we've been doing wrong. Even still, we've slowly seen some improvement. I know I have to be MUCH more patient. We're dedicated, and he'll grow to know he's loved and taken care of.

I'm so glad you're putting in the time.

Dogs are neat

 

[sbk1234]

A bit of an update. It's been a few weeks and our dog is adjusting and making good progress. He's still very skittish, but much less so. He's coming when called but I don't think he really knows his name yet. I think he's just responding to my voice. The only issue we really have to train is he's only half way potty trained. He pees outside, but poops inside. As our trainer is away until after New years, I'd take any suggestions on training this one. Thanks.

 

[Timewalker]

Where does he sleep at night? You might have to consider shutting him up in an area where there's no carpet, and get one of those housetraining pads they sell at pet stores. At least it would save the floor until his training is finished.

In the meantime, regulate his mealtimes strictly, so you'll have a good idea as to when he's likely to want to do his business. Keep an eye on him, and when he shows indications of intending to squat and do something, hustle him outside immediately.

One thing I did when teaching one of my cats his name was to associate his name with food or cuddling. So when he heard his name, he knew that if he came to me, he would get at least one - and probably two - good things: food and petting/cuddling/praise.