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Mastering Recall - How to Get Your Dog to Come When Called
Does your dog ignore you when you call them back?
Poor recall is one of the most common challenges dog owners face. Whether they’re chasing after other dogs, distracted by smells, or simply having too much fun to listen, it can be frustrating when your dog doesn’t come when called. But don’t worry—with the right approach, you can improve your dog’s recall and make off-lead walks a safe and enjoyable experience for both of you.
Why Is Recall So Important?
A reliable recall isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety. Whether you're in the park, on a country walk, or in your own garden, being able to call your dog back to you quickly and effectively helps to:
· Prevent your dog from running into dangerous situations, such as roads or wildlife.
· Avoid confrontations with other dogs or people.
· Give you the confidence to let your dog explore off-lead, knowing they’ll return when needed.
Common Mistakes with Recall Training
Before diving into how to improve your dog’s recall, let’s look at some common mistakes dog owners make:
1. Repeating the Command
If you keep calling your dog without getting a response, they may learn that "Come" doesn’t really mean anything. Stick to saying the command once and follow it up with action.
2. Punishing When They Finally Come
If you scold your dog for not coming right away, they’ll associate returning to you with something negative. Always make coming back a positive experience, even if they’ve taken their time!
3. Not Making It Fun
Dogs are more likely to return if they think coming back is rewarding and enjoyable. If it feels like the end of the fun, they might be more tempted to stay away.
How to Train a Reliable Recall
Here are some simple steps to help you master your dog’s recall using force-free, reward-based methods:
1. Start in a Low-Distraction Environment
Begin training in a quiet space like your garden or indoors, where your dog isn’t distracted by other dogs, people, or smells. Call your dog to you using a cheerful, upbeat voice, and reward them with high-value treats or their favourite toy when they come.
2. Use a Long Line for Safety
When practicing recall in larger spaces like parks, use a long line (a long training lead) to give your dog freedom while still maintaining control. This allows them to explore while you practice calling them back.
3. Be Consistent with the Recall Word
Choose one word for recall, like "Come" or "Here," and stick to it. Don’t confuse your dog by switching between commands.
4. Make It Worth Their While
Use high-value rewards that your dog loves—this could be their favourite treats, toys, or even praise and playtime. The goal is to make coming back to you more rewarding than anything else they’re doing.
5. Build Distractions Gradually
Once your dog reliably comes to you in a quiet space, gradually introduce more distractions. Start with mild distractions like a ball or another person in the distance, and work your way up to busier environments.
6. Practice, Practice, Practice
Consistency is key. Regularly practice recall in different locations and situations to reinforce the behaviour. The more your dog practices, the stronger their recall will become.
When Things Go Wrong: What to Do
It’s normal for recall training to take time, and there will be setbacks along the way. If your dog doesn’t come when called:
· Don’t chase them: This could turn it into a game. Instead, try running in the opposite direction or making exciting noises to encourage them to follow you.
· Stay patient: Never punish your dog when they eventually return. Instead, reward them for coming back, even if it took a while.
Troubleshooting Recall Issues
If you’re still struggling with recall despite consistent training, it could be due to distractions, anxiety, or a strong prey drive. In these cases, a 1-to-1 training session can help you work on specific recall challenges and tailor the training to your dog’s unique needs.
Date: 25/10/2024