Chris posted this question on the submission page:

“I have a 4 month old havanese who thinks every time I call her name I just want to play and she runs around like crazy. If I call her to the door to come inside, she comes right up to the door but then runs away when I try to get her. She is only playing, but it’s driving me nuts. I have 2 other dogs who come as soon as I call them, but she just doesn’t get it. Sometimes it can take 15minutes and 3 people to get her in. I know that chasing her around can’t be helping either. Any suggestions”

Here is the advice I can offer:

Dogs are very perceptive and it may not be you calling her name that sends her into this behavior, but some other cue she has learned, and you are right - running around after her will reinforce the fact that it is still playtime.

Until you are confident that her behavior has improved, keep her on a leash at all times while away from your own garden.  When she has been out in the yard and you are ready for her to come in, call her once only, then go back inside if she does not come to you straight away.  keep this up each time she has been out, and when she does come to you and comes in, give her a treat. You will be surprised how quickly she will come to you after a week or so!

Chet Womach has a great dog training style that would help you with the more advanced techniques for dealing with this sort of naughty behavior.  He also provides free dog training tips by email.  You can sign up for them at his website: “Hands Off Dog Training“