The unexpectedly long answer to the question, ‘what is your dog’s name’, is this:
Your dog’s name is a command that should mean ‘hey you, pay attention and look at me because we’re about to do something fun’.
The best way to maximise your chances of success with any of your other commands is to get your dog’s attention before you ask them to do something. The best way to get your dog’s attention is to teach them their name.
Is your dog willing to do anything you ask when you say the words ‘biscuit’, ‘walkies’ or ‘dinner’? There is no reason why you cannot get the exact same reaction from your dog whenever you call their name. The trick is to show your dog that their name is a precursor to something enjoyable.
When you get your dog excited by asking ‘do you want a biscuit’, you probably always give them a biscuit, which is why they love that word so much. When you use your dog’s name, always be ready to reward their attention with a treat, a game, or the chance to earn some praise by following a command.
Stop using your dog’s name to tell them off. Dogs do need to be told ‘no’ from time to time, but avoid using your dog’s name if you are not ready and willing to praise and reward them for responding to it.
To teach your dog to pay attention whenever you call their name, spend a week or two saying your dog’s name each time you hand them a treat. If your dog loves to have their belly rubbed, say their name as you reach down to rub their belly. If you have an older dog who is less responsive than they used to be there is nothing wrong with going through this same simple exercise whenever you need to sharpen your dog’s response.
Wyre Walkies 