Keep It Worth It

While you are building the name, treat it like a promise you always keep. Name, then something good — a treat, a game, or warm praise. Every time, no exceptions.

Never spend the name on a bet you will lose. Calling your off-leash dog mid-squirrel-chase does not get them back — it just teaches them that the name is optional.

Every ignored call chips away at the cue you worked to build. So use it only when you are fairly sure of a yes, or when you can calmly guide the dog into one.