The recall, or “coming when called,” is arguably the most crucial cue you can teach your dog. However, it’s often one of the most challenging to master reliably. While teaching the basic behavior can be straightforward, ensuring your dog responds consistently in real-life situations is where many owners struggle. This guide will help you build a recall that you can depend on, avoiding common pitfalls and leveraging effective training techniques.
Why Dogs Learn to Ignore the Recall
Several common mistakes can undermine your recall training efforts. One of the most frequent is assuming your dog is fully trained before they actually are. Just as a child learning the alphabet isn’t ready for essay writing, a dog who knows the “come” cue isn’t necessarily ready for advanced distractions. Teaching a basic understanding is merely the first step.
Another mistake is progressing too quickly through training levels. A recall that’s flawless in your quiet backyard may not translate to a busy dog park. It’s essential to gradually increase the difficulty, moving through stages such as: Level 1: your house, Level 2: house with guests, Level 3: the backyard, Level 4: your street, and finally, Level 5: a distraction-filled hiking trail. Only when your dog is proficient at one level should you move to the next.
Crucially, avoid calling your dog when you are uncertain they will respond. Each time your dog ignores a recall cue, the cue itself is weakened. If you’ve only trained up to Level 2, don’t attempt a recall in a Level 4 situation. During transitional phases, using a long-line (at least 20ft/6m) allows you to gently guide your dog if they don’t respond.
Punishing your dog after a recall is a major deterrent. Regardless of their transgression, calling your dog only to scold them will teach them to associate your recall with negative consequences. They won’t understand they’re being punished for running off; they’ll simply learn that coming to you can lead to unpleasantness. Similarly, avoid using the recall cue for undesirable activities like baths or being crated. In such instances, it’s better to retrieve your dog physically or use a less critical recall cue.
Finally, be wary of bribery. While food rewards are vital, showing your dog the treat before calling them can turn it into a bribe. In the initial stages, luring your dog with a treat is acceptable, but the goal is to progress beyond needing to see the reward to come to you.
How to Build a Strong Recall
The ultimate aim is to cultivate a conditioned emotional response where your dog perceives the recall cue as an incredibly positive event. This can be achieved through consistent reinforcement and engaging training games.
Reinforce the Behavior Extensively
Reinforcement involves using something your dog values to encourage the repetition of a behavior. When your dog successfully responds to the recall cue, the reward should be significant. Many owners under-reward, using mediocre treats or ceasing rewards once they believe the dog is trained, leading to a decline in performance. Always ensure your rewards are highly valuable.
High-value food rewards are excellent for building strong recall behaviors quickly. While varying treat values based on the training environment is often recommended (kibble for home, high-value treats for parks), recalls should always receive top-tier rewards. This could include cooked chicken or even small pieces of steak for exceptional responses, like recalling away from a strong distraction such as a rabbit.
Build Enthusiasm with Training Games
Instead of long, tedious drills, focus on short, engaging training games. Games make recalling more exciting than whatever else your dog is doing, thereby strengthening the cue. This approach also enhances your bond, as your dog learns to associate you with positive experiences and desirable outcomes. Playing games keeps both you and your dog relaxed and happy, making training more effective and leading to faster, better results.
Engaging Recall Games:
- Tag: Get your dog’s attention, then recall them while running in the opposite direction. Reward them when they reach you, then toss a treat on the ground and repeat the process.
- Flying Treats: Call your dog, and instead of handing them the treat, throw or roll it across the floor for them to chase.
- Restrained Recalls: Have an assistant hold your dog’s collar while you move away. Engage your dog with sounds or toys, then give the recall cue. As your dog starts towards you, the assistant can release them. Running away as you call can add extra excitement.
Think Beyond Treats and Toys
While food and toys are primary reinforcers, anything your dog desires in a given moment can serve as a reward, especially when dealing with high distractions. The principle is to teach your dog that they receive what they want by complying with your request.
Distraction-Proofing Games:
These games should be introduced only after your dog has a solid foundation in regular recall training.
- Controlled Distractions: Start with your dog on a leash. Toss a treat just out of reach. When your dog pulls towards it, give the recall cue. If ignored, gently reel them in with the leash and reward heavily upon arrival.
- Long-Line Practice: On a long-line in a park or field, periodically stop and recall your dog. Reward them, then release them back to their activity (e.g., sniffing).
- Social Recalls: If your dog wants to interact with other dogs or people, recall them first, then allow them to rejoin their desired activity.
Practice Frequently and Informally
Consistent practice is key to a reliable recall. Aim for short, frequent training sessions (two to three 5-minute sessions daily) to prevent boredom. Incorporate single “reps” at random times throughout the day.
Encourage recalls during informal moments when your dog is engaged in independent activities around the house. When they come to you, make it a rewarding experience by immediately providing a high-value treat or engaging in a favorite game. This reinforces that positive outcomes follow a recall, regardless of the context.
For comprehensive guidance, consider enrolling in a structured online course that offers step-by-step video tutorials, advanced techniques, and community support. Such programs can provide the in-depth instruction needed to develop a truly reliable recall in various environments.
