Maltese/japenese chin

Hi Martha,

I see you found another past thread on a similar topic, and picked up some ideas from there. Hope it helps you - please let us know how you get on.

I will say its not advisable to let a dog off lead until they are 100% responsive on coming back when you call them. That being said, a big help to you will be working on the "come" command with your dog everyday at home. In the backyard, in the house, everywhere. Carry a treat bag in your pocket so your dog knows when he's responding correctly.

You can also try using a long or retractable lead on walks, letting your dog get further away, then calling them back. This way, if they don't respond, you still have a hold on them, but it gives them enough room for you to practice training.

When walking with your dog, try training on the command "heel". Theres a section on this in Secrets to Dog Training, and its a really good tool to be able to utilise. If you get your dog going well with it, "heel" can also be used off lead to keep a better eye on your dog

Hope your dog enjoys the training, and picks up on it!