A whistle for dog training | 3 effective methods

A dog training whistle can be useful in many situations. We can use it during a normal walk as a recall whistle; we can also use a whistle (slightly different from the one described here) when hunting with a hunting dog; and we can also use a whistle when training for Mondioring.

A dog training whistle for Mondioring and French Ring

In the case of the latter, it is particularly important when the dog is returning whilst biting the decoy; and in the case of the French Ring, it is also used during an exercise which, loosely translated, could be called a ‘halted attack’, where the dog, sent to attack, must, upon hearing the whistle, bypass (without biting him) the decoy and return to the handler.

So how do you teach a dog to return on the whistle?

In this article, I’ll describe the three simplest methods, so let’s get started.

Training whistle: Method 1 – Food

Food is the simplest way to train a young dog. When you go out for a walk, take your whistle and some treats with you. Remember, the stronger the incentive, the better the result. You can take some sliced sausage or cheese with you so that the dog has greater motivation to return.

The order in which you give the verbal command and present the reward is very important. Remember that you must whistle first, and only reward the dog once it has come to you. You should repeat this exercise on every walk.

Dog training whistle – training with a ball

Training with a ball can be more effective than using food for dogs with a livelier temperament who enjoy active play. I do not recommend this method for lazy dogs or those who do not like playing with a ball on a string (in which case I suggest returning to the first method).

Training with a ball gives us an advantage over training with food. What is it? Well, it’s much easier to get the dog excited on the way back. I recommend this method for high-energy dogs aged 4 months and over

Rules for working with a ball on a string

• When you go for a walk, take a whistle and a ball on a string with you.
• Give a verbal command (whistle)
• When the dog turns round and starts looking in your direction, begin to stimulate it by twirling the ball and encouraging it to come back.
• When the dog returns to you, start playing with the ball (tug-of-war).
• In the early stages of training, give the dog the ball as a trophy; let it ‘win’ and enjoy its prize.
• Repeat this exercise at every training session.

Dog training whistle – Jute chew toy

Another tried-and-tested method is a jute chew or a rag. This form of training is recommended for anyone training sporting dogs that compete in Mondioring.

However, working with a chew toy or rag requires cooperation with a decoy, so it is not recommended for those who are not training their dog for protection work.

So how do you teach a dog to release and return on command?

Start by playing with a puppy. Yes, you read that right – with a puppy. Tug with the chew toy and let the puppy win (give the chew toy back when the puppy is holding it firmly and pulling on it). This kind of play will help teach the dog to come and to let go.

• Give the ‘take’ command, and when the puppy is biting the helper’s trouser leg, move very close to it.
• Give a verbal command
• Start waving a cloth or chew toy near the puppy’s head
• When the puppy lets go of the trouser leg and starts to follow the chew toy, step back, praise it and, finally, let the dog catch the chew toy.
• Play for a while.
• This exercise should be repeated at every Mondioring or French ring training session.

Summary