Teaching your dog to come when called is more than just a training trick; it’s a crucial safety skill that can prevent dangerous situations and foster a stronger, more trusting relationship between you and your canine companion. While it’s straightforward to initiate, achieving a reliable recall requires consistent dedication, ample patience, and regular practice. The key to success lies in making the training process enjoyable and rewarding for your dog, reinforcing the idea that returning to you is always a positive experience. Dog treats serve as excellent motivators in this endeavor.
The Foundation of a Reliable Recall
A strong recall is paramount for your dog’s safety and your peace of mind. By understanding the core principles and implementing them consistently, you can build a reliable response.
Choosing the Right Cue Word
The first step in teaching your dog to come is selecting a unique and special cue word. This word should not be associated with any other commands or tricks your dog has learned. For instance, if your dog tends to ignore the word “come,” opt for an alternative like “here.” It’s also advisable to avoid using your dog’s name as the recall cue, as you likely say their name frequently in various contexts, diminishing its impact as a specific command.
Setting the Stage for Success
To effectively teach this essential skill, having a training partner and a quiet, distraction-free environment is highly beneficial. Begin your training sessions in a calm room within your home where your dog is least likely to be sidetracked. This controlled setting allows your dog to focus solely on learning the new command.
Initiating the Call
Once you’re in a suitable training environment, begin by kneeling down to your dog’s level. Use your chosen recall word in a happy, encouraging tone of voice, saying it just once. If your dog doesn’t immediately respond, employ additional encouragement such as whistling, clapping your hands, or making kissing noises to prompt them to come to you. Initially, they won’t understand the meaning of the word, so these auditory cues will help bridge the communication gap.
The Power of Positive Reinforcement
The moment your dog reaches you, immediately reward them with a high-value treat and enthusiastic praise. This immediate positive reinforcement is the cornerstone of effective dog training. By associating coming to you with desirable rewards, you build a strong positive connection to the action.
Incorporating a Partner
Once your dog begins to understand the cue, involve your training partner. Have them call your dog and provide another treat and plenty of praise when the dog responds. This repetition helps generalize the command and reinforces that coming to either of you is a positive outcome.
Consistency is Key
Continue this process diligently. Repeat the calling and rewarding steps until your dog eagerly comes to you from whomever calls them. The more consistently you practice, the stronger their recall will become.
Fun Recall Games to Enhance Training
Transforming training into a game can significantly boost your dog’s engagement and progress.
One effective method is to have your partner hide in another room. You may need to use more encouraging sounds, like whistling, to guide your dog. This turns the training into a fun game of hide-and-seek, making the learning process enjoyable. As your dog becomes more confident with these indoor exercises, gradually move your training sessions to your yard or another safe, enclosed outdoor area. Outdoor training introduces new distractions, so it’s crucial to use a high-value treat to maintain your dog’s focus. Depending on your outdoor space, a long training leash can also be a safe and effective tool for practicing recall.
Essential Tips for Successful Recall Training
Safety should always be the top priority when practicing recall training.
Never test your dog’s recall by letting them off-leash in unfenced or unsecured areas, as this could lead to them running away or encountering dangerous situations. Recall should be practiced indoors, within a securely fenced-in area, or with the use of a long training leash.
Remember to keep the training sessions lighthearted and fun. Avoid becoming impatient if your dog takes time to grasp the concept or struggles with distractions. Consistent practice is vital, so persevere and ensure that the experience remains enjoyable and rewarding, filled with plenty of treats and praise.
It’s also beneficial to work on recall training frequently as a team. With consistent effort and positive reinforcement, your dog will eventually learn to come to you reliably whenever they are called.
WRITTEN BY
Victoria Schade, CPDT-KA
Animal Trainer
