The recall, or “coming when called,” is arguably the most crucial command you can teach your dog, yet it’s often the most challenging to master reliably. While teaching the basic behavior can be accomplished quickly, ensuring your dog responds consistently in real-life situations, especially when distractions are present, requires a strategic and patient approach. This guide will delve into common pitfalls and provide actionable strategies to build an unbreakable recall.
Why Dogs Learn to Ignore the Recall
Several common mistakes can undermine even the most well-intentioned recall training. One primary issue is the premature assumption that a dog is fully trained simply because they understand the cue in controlled environments. Just as a child mastering the alphabet isn’t ready for advanced literary analysis, a dog who knows the word “come” isn’t necessarily ready for a full-fledged recall in a distracting environment. Training a basic understanding of a cue is merely the first step.
Another significant hurdle is progressing too quickly through training levels. A flawless recall in your backyard does not translate to readiness for the dog park. It’s essential to build proficiency incrementally, moving through distinct levels of distraction, such as from a quiet house to a busy street, and eventually to more challenging scenarios like off-leash hikes with enticing wildlife. Using a long-line can be invaluable during these transitional phases, allowing you to gently guide your dog if they don’t respond.
Furthermore, calling your dog with the intention of punishment, even if they’ve misbehaved, is detrimental. The dog will associate the recall cue with negative consequences, eroding trust and responsiveness. Similarly, using the recall for unpleasant experiences like baths or confinement can have the same negative effect. In such instances, it’s better to physically retrieve your dog rather than compromise the integrity of your recall cue. Lastly, avoid using food as a bribe by showing the treat before calling. While luring with a treat is acceptable in the initial stages, the goal is for the dog to respond to the cue itself, not merely the visible reward.
How to Build a Strong Recall
The ultimate aim is to cultivate a conditioned emotional response where your dog perceives recalls as incredibly positive and exciting. This can be achieved through two key strategies: rigorously reinforcing the behavior and building enthusiasm through engaging training games.
Reinforce the Behavior Extensively
Reinforcement is anything your dog finds rewarding that encourages them to repeat a behavior. When your dog successfully responds to a recall cue, the payoff must be substantial. Many owners underestimate the power of reinforcement, offering mediocre rewards or ceasing rewards once the dog appears trained. This often leads to a decline in performance. Always ensure your rewards are high-value, particularly for recalls.
While varying treat values based on distraction levels is generally advisable, recalls should always be rewarded with something exceptional. High-value options include cooked chicken, steak bits, or even special treats like canned cat food if your dog has a peculiar preference. The key is to offer something your dog genuinely loves, making the recall an exceptionally desirable outcome.
Build Enthusiasm with Training Games
Forget tedious, formal drills. Short, engaging training games are far more effective for building reliable behaviors. Games teach your dog that coming when called is more exciting than any other activity, strengthening your bond and fostering a positive association with your presence. When you approach training with a playful and relaxed attitude, dogs are more likely to engage, leading to faster and better results.
Incorporate elements of chase and fast movement into your games. For instance, in “Tag,” call your dog and run in the opposite direction, rewarding them when they reach you by dropping a treat. “Flying Treats” involves calling your dog and then tossing the treat across the floor upon their arrival. “Restrained Recalls,” where an assistant holds your dog while you create excitement from a distance, followed by the recall cue and release, can also be highly effective. These games transform recall training into an enjoyable activity, enhancing your dog’s eagerness to respond.
Think Beyond Treats and Toys
While food and toys are excellent reinforcers, they aren’t the only options. Anything your dog desires in a given moment, within reason, can serve as a recall reward. Teach your dog that compliance leads to obtaining what they want. This can be practiced through distraction-proofing games, starting with food rewards and gradually progressing to rewarding the dog with access to desired distractions, such as sniffing opportunities or play with other dogs or people, after a successful recall.
Practice Consistently and Strategically
Maximize successful recall opportunities daily. Short, frequent training sessions (5-10 minutes) are more beneficial than long, drawn-out ones, which can lead to boredom. Incorporate single recall “reps” randomly throughout the day. This means practicing recalls outside of formal training sessions, when your dog is engaged in everyday activities around the house. When your dog responds, make it a significant event by either providing a high-value treat or engaging in their favorite game. This consistent practice across various contexts reinforces the cue’s reliability.
For those seeking more comprehensive guidance, structured online courses can provide step-by-step video tutorials and additional exercises to solidify your dog’s recall, even in public settings. These programs often include community support and progress tracking to ensure you achieve a strong, dependable recall.
