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I find that the dogs learn their names naturally through phase 1 command structure. It is really a neutral precursor to the command that we shape. I don’t add a separate step to “teach the name” even for brand new puppies. I just have clients start phase 1. The dogs eventually learn (in phases 2-4) that when they hear their “formal name” followed by a command there is going to be either praise or punishment. We have nick names for our dogs to address them informally or for example I can say “sit” with no name in front and my dogs may or may not sit, but because I didn’t use proper command structure they won’t be held accountable punitively. If I say “come on Petey” (storms nick name) she will probably come. If she doesn’t, I can say “storm come” and she will come to avoid punishment because she is now in formal command structure. I’ll find a puppy video to share. But hopefully this helps.
