Many dog owners are keen to know what's to be done in cases of emergencies. Should the dog be commanded to come over? To sit? Or to get down? One rare case even involves an owner running at top speed towards the dog, calling out its name, and so getting it to drop and even roll submissively.

First of all, it is important to keep in mind that “come here” as a Havanese Training control command to get the dog's attention is not recommendable until you as trainer have gotten down pat perfect and reliable recalls. For as long as the dog is prone to distractions, the much simpler “down” or “sit” will suffice, followed by the “come here” when you are certain that you have the dog's focus.

Other trainers prefer something unlike any of the above, and that would be an arm straight up in the air, signaling “down.” Many say this is a practical command, clear and visible even from a distance. Besides, using your arm up for ALL downs and hand signals for all commands ensures good communications with the dog in case later on in its life it becomes deaf.

Some owners prefer that the dog drops instead, something very useful in case the dog thinks it is a game when the owner approaches while imploring “come here.” A good way to teach “down” is to pretend that it is a game and that the dog gets the treat only if it is quick enough in getting down. The owner of the Hav will understand best what tone of voice to use on the dog, whether stern (something that may not apply to all Havs with sensitive personalities) or happily positive.

But when you make up your mind about what Havanese Training emergency command to use, apply it promptly. In the case of downs, work on reliability starting from conditions with zero distractions (at home) but keep increasing the distractions bit by bit. Give rewards at an unpredictable pattern, or in other words, keep the dog guessing as to when the rare treats will be given.