Have you ever noticed that when you see a stray dog on the street or in the park many people tell the dog to “go Home!” It is the most natural response that someone has when they see a dog out wandering about the neighborhood. People automatically think that the dog knows where home is and if they tell the dog the animal will automatically return to the place where someone will take care of them. Unfortunately most dogs do not really know how to get back home. They are truly lost and need help but may be too frightened to let someone help them.
You can help your dog learn how to get back home in the event something tragic happens and your dog gets away from you. Every time you take your dog out for a walk, be sure to let your dog sniff around in certain areas. Look at your dog’s reaction and that will tell you if your dog is interested in sniffing. Your dog will have his head down and will want to smell the ground. As long as there is nothing that your dog could eat that would be dangerous (or gross) then let him sniff! Your dog works out many amazing things when he sniffs the world around him. He can tell if he has gone to the bathroom there before and he can tell if the other dogs are older, younger, bigger, stronger, healthy or sick. Your dog is also memorizing his location. This will help your dog know where he is in his world. Yes, you can still walk for exercise; just take time to smell the roses!
Once you are headed back home, tell your dog to “Go Home” in a happy voice, in a stern voice, in a loud voice and in a quiet voice. This will reinforce the information in the dog’s head that when he hears the words “Go Home!” he should turn around and head for home. Remember that when you are practicing this, you do NOT let go of the leash, you walk or jog as you normally would, and you are just adding the words (command) to the routine.
As soon as you both get home give your dog a big, happy “Go Home!” and a few wonderful treats along with plenty of ear scratches, belly rubs and play. Soon your dog will look forward to the “Go Home” game!
