Teaching your dog to reliably come when called, known as recall, is one of the most crucial yet often frustrating aspects of dog training. While mastering the basic cue can be achieved quickly, ensuring your dog responds consistently in real-life situations requires a nuanced approach. This guide will delve into common pitfalls and provide actionable strategies to build an unbreakable recall.
Common Mistakes That Hinder Recall Training
Many owners inadvertently teach their dogs to ignore recall commands by making a few common errors. A primary mistake is assuming a dog is fully trained before it truly is. Just as a child knowing their ABCs doesn’t make them ready for essay writing, a dog that understands “come” in a controlled environment isn’t ready for the complexities of the real world. It’s essential to progress through distinct training levels, from the quiet house to the distracting dog park, only advancing when the dog shows proficiency at each stage.
Another critical error is calling your dog when you’re uncertain they will obey. Each time a recall is ignored, the cue is weakened. Therefore, avoid calling your dog in situations beyond their current training level. During transitions between levels, utilize a long leash (at least 20 feet) to guide your dog if they don’t respond.
Furthermore, never use the recall command for punishment. Whether your dog has escaped or is exhibiting annoying behavior, scolding them after they come will teach them that responding to your call leads to negative consequences. Similarly, avoid using recall for unpleasant activities like baths or being crated. In such scenarios, retrieve your dog manually or use a casual recall that doesn’t associate the command with negative experiences.
Finally, while food rewards are vital, bribery is detrimental. Waving a treat to entice your dog to come is acceptable in the very early stages (lure/reward technique), but the goal is for your dog to come without seeing the reward first.
Building a Strong and Reliable Recall
The ultimate aim is to create a positive association with the recall cue, making your dog eager to return to you. This can be achieved through consistent reinforcement and engaging training games.
The Power of Reinforcement
Reinforcement involves rewarding your dog with something they value, encouraging them to repeat the desired behavior. For recalls, the payoff must be significant. Many owners under-reinforce, offering mediocre rewards or ceasing rewards once they believe the dog is trained, leading to behavioral deterioration. Always ensure your rewards are high-value.
High-value food rewards, such as cooked chicken or even steak bits for exceptional recalls, are highly effective. Some dogs have unique preferences, like canned cat food, which can be leveraged for training. The key is to consistently use something your dog absolutely loves for recall practice.
Injecting Enthusiasm with Training Games
Boring, serious drills are less effective than short, fun training games. Games not only teach reliable behaviors but also strengthen your bond, as your dog learns to associate you with positive experiences and exciting outcomes.
Consider incorporating games that utilize your dog’s excitement for chasing and fast movement:
- Tag: Recall your dog, then run in the opposite direction, rewarding them when they reach you by dropping a treat on the ground. Continue running and calling.
- Flying Treats: Instead of handing over the treat, toss or roll it away from you once your dog arrives.
- Restrained Recalls: Have an assistant hold your dog’s collar while you move away. Tease your dog with noises or movements, then recall them as your assistant releases them. Running away as you call can add extra excitement.
Expanding the Definition of Reward
While food and toys are common rewards, anything your dog desires in a given moment can serve as a recall reward. This teaches your dog that complying with your requests leads to obtaining what they want.
To distract-proof your dog, start by tossing a treat just out of reach. If your dog pulls towards it, recall them. Reward them handsomely when they come. Progress to using a long line on walks, recalling your dog periodically and then praising them to return to sniffing or playing with other dogs or people they wish to engage with.
Consistent Practice and Real-World Application
The more successful recalls your dog experiences, the more reliable the cue becomes. Engage in short, frequent training sessions (two to three 5-minute sessions daily) rather than long, monotonous ones.
Crucially, practice recalls in less formal situations throughout the day. Dogs are adept at distinguishing between structured training and casual interaction. When your dog is casually exploring the house, call them and follow up with an exciting reward, such as a quick trip to the kitchen for a treat or a favorite toy.
Seeking Further Assistance
For a detailed, step-by-step approach to mastering recall, consider the online course “Super Recall.” This comprehensive program offers video tutorials, advanced techniques not covered here, access to community forums for support, and a progress tracking system.
This structured course is designed to help your dog pay attention to you in public and reliably come when called, building upon the principles outlined in this guide.
