Dog Recall Training 101
Recall, the ability to get your dog to come back when called, is one of the most important (and often one of the most frustrating) parts of training your pet. Whether you’re calling your dog away from someone else’s ball, a picnic in the park, or a busy road, strong recall makes life safer and more enjoyable for both of you.
But how do you move from your dog completely ignoring you, to them running back on command? That’s what we’re going to talk about in this article.
Why is Recall Important?
Solid recall isn’t just a party trick; it’s an essential safety tool. Whether you’re walking in a busy park, exploring off-lead trails, or just opening the front door to the postman, being able to call your dog back can help keep everyone safe.
It also helps strengthen your bond. When your dog chooses to come back, even with distractions around, it shows trust, training, and love.
Dog Recall Training Tips
Start with the Basics
Begin in a quiet space like your living room or garden. Use a happy, excited voice and use the same cue each time, whether that’s ‘come’, ‘here’, or ‘heel’. When your dog comes, even if it’s just one step, reward them with praise, treats or a toy. Always repeat in short sessions and always end on a high note.
Make it Worth Their While
Dogs learn through positive experiences. The more you reward your dog for coming back, the more they’ll want to do it. Use high-value treats, lots of praise and lots of play. If recall always leads to fun, they’ll be much more likely to listen, even when distractions are around.
Understand competing motivators and be prepared with rewards to suit the environment. For example, if your dog loves to eat deer poop, and the park is offering this up, they are unlikely to return to you for just a pat on the back. A piece of chicken, on the other hand, is far more likely to bring them to your side! In your home or your garden, without such temptations, your dog is far more likely to come to you when called, for nothing more than a brief ruffle of the ears.
TIP: Never call your dog to you and then do something they dislike (like clipping nails or giving medicine). You need to enforce the idea that coming to you means good things only.
Build Up Slowly
Once your pup has the hang of recall at home, take the practice into new environments. Start with the garden, a small park, then bigger spaces. Gradually add distractions but keep rewarding them generously.
What to Avoid
- Don’t tell your dog off if they come back slowly. However they come back, as long as they do come back, that’s worth a reward.
- Avoid repeating the cue over and over if they’re not responding. Instead, reset and try again either with a shorter distance or with more enthusiasm.
Teaching recall takes time, patience and consistency, but it is necessary. With a little practice, and a lot of treats, your dog will soon love coming back to you.
