How to Teach Your Dog to Come When Called

At thedogcalmer, teaching your dog to come when called is one of the most important skills you can teach. Not only does it ensure your dog's safety, but it also strengthens the bond between you and your pet. A reliable recall allows for more freedom and off-leash fun, with the peace of mind that your dog will return when asked. Let’s explore how to make recall training both effective and enjoyable.

Understanding Dog Recall

In simple terms, dog recall is the ability for your dog to return to you when called. This skill is essential for safety, especially in situations where your dog might be distracted by other animals or tempting smells. Recall training strengthens trust and fosters a positive relationship between you and your dog. The best time to start teaching recall is when your dog is young, but older dogs can learn it too with patience and consistency.

Establishing a Strong Foundation for Recall

Begin training your dog in a quiet, distraction-free space such as your home or garden. This controlled environment helps your dog focus on you without outside interruptions.

Step-by-Step Guide to Teaching Recall:

1. Start with the LeadPut a lead on your dog, attaching the handle to your wrist so you can focus entirely on your dog. Hold food between your thumb and forefinger, then slowly move your hands towards your knees. Your dog will follow and sit. When they do, reward them with a treat and gently touch their collar.

2. Repeat for ReinforcementPerform this exercise five times, then take a break. After a few repetitions, add verbal commands: "dog's name" followed by "come" as your dog approaches, then "sit" when they sit. Repeat in blocks of six, several times a day.

3. Gradually Increase the DifficultyOnce you're both confident indoors, practice the recall with distractions and in new environments. You can also practice with the lead on to maintain control while still giving your dog the opportunity to respond.

Tips for Effective Recall Training

• Choose the Right Time: Train when your dog isn’t too tired or overly excitable. A calm, focused dog will learn better.

• Start Indoors: Begin in a quiet room, calling your dog from a different area. Reward them for responding immediately.

• Practice in the Garden: Move outside as your dog gets more reliable. Keep the lead on for safety.

• Gradually Add Distractions: Introduce distractions slowly, such as toys, other people, or other animals, to test your dog's focus.

• Be Consistent: Practice recall daily. Consistency is key for reinforcing positive behaviour.

Toys can add some fun to your training

Overcoming Challenges in Recall Training

Challenges are normal, and patience is essential. Here are some common issues you may face and how to overcome them:

• Distractions: Dogs can become distracted by other animals or smells. If your dog doesn’t respond, increase the distance between them and the distraction. Over time, you can gradually reduce the distance.

• Too Much Freedom Too Soon: If you allow your dog off-lead too early, they might become distracted. Ensure they are reliable on the lead first.

• Negative Associations: If your dog only hears "come" when it's time for something unpleasant (like ending the walk), they may learn to avoid it. Make sure recall is linked to fun and positive experiences.

Making Recall Training Fun and Engaging

Dogs thrive when training is enjoyable. Here are a few fun activities to incorporate into your recall sessions:

• Hide and Seek: Have someone hold your dog while you hide, then call them. Reward them when they find you.

• Fetch: Include the recall command during fetch games. After your dog retrieves the ball, call them back for a reward.

• Walks: While on walks, call your dog back to you from time to time. This reinforces recall while giving them additional stimulation.

Creating a Rewarding Environment for Recall Training

Positive reinforcement is at the heart of effective recall training. Here's how to make training sessions more rewarding:

• Use High-Value Treats: Treats like chicken or cheese are more enticing than regular kibble, helping reinforce recall.

• Praise and Affection: Your body language and tone matter. Celebrate your dog’s success with enthusiastic praise and affection.

• Playtime: For some dogs, the best reward is play. Use your dog’s favourite game as a reward for successful recall.

Maintaining Recall Reliability

Once your dog has mastered recall, it’s important to keep practising to maintain the behaviour:

• Regular Calls: Call your dog throughout the day, whether inside the house or during playtime.

• Practice in Different Environments: Test recall in a variety of locations—parks, fields, or new environments—so your dog learns to respond anywhere.

• Stay Positive: Always associate recall with a positive experience, and avoid using it in negative contexts (like ending playtime).

Always give a treat will add to your dogs reliability!

Lasting Benefits of a Reliable Recall

A dependable recall can be a lifesaver, helping to protect your dog from dangerous situations like traffic or encounters with wildlife. It also allows for more off-leash freedom, enriching your dog’s life while keeping them safe. Plus, it deepens the bond between you and your dog, creating a strong sense of trust.

Teaching recall is a journey, but with consistency and patience, you will see remarkable progress. Embrace the process, enjoy the time spent training together, and you’ll enjoy a safe and happy relationship with your dog.

Recall Training Session at thedogcalmer

Join us for a Recall Training Session this Saturday, 17th May, from 10am to 12 noon at thedogcalmer. This session is designed to help you and your dog master the crucial recall skill in a fun and supportive environment. Spaces are limited, so book your spot today and start building that strong bond of trust and communication with your dog!

For more expert tips and techniques, explore dog recall training to enhance your skills even further. Happy training from thedogcalmer!