Boosting a dog's recall ability: Comprehensive guide for establishing a dependable recall command
In the world of dog training, teaching a reliable recall is crucial for ensuring safety and fostering a stronger bond between owner and pet. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you train your dog to come when called, using positive reinforcement and distraction techniques.
Expert trainer Amelia Steele emphasises the importance of teaching 'middle', a move that teaches the dog to come through or sit between your legs. This technique helps take the pressure off the situation and makes the recall more reliable. Start by teaching the recall command (e.g., "come" or "here") in a low-distraction environment, rewarding immediate returns with high-value treats or play to build motivation and a strong positive association.
Lara Sorisi, an APDT-certified dog trainer and championship gundog trainer, warns against allowing a dog to do whatever it wants on walks, as this can ruin its recall. Instead, give a dog more access to things it likes doing, like walking, to improve its recall. Practicing recall on walks using a long-line dog leash is also recommended, as it helps build confidence in the recall.
Distraction training involves practicing recall around competing interests such as other dogs, noises, or toys. This requires patience and gradual exposure so your dog learns to prioritize the recall cue despite tempting distractions. If your dog fails to come, you can restart the training exercise without reward, teaching that good choices lead to continued play and fun, while poor choices reset the situation.
Additional effective strategies include practicing recall in diverse settings, from quiet indoors to busy outdoor areas, to ensure reliability across environments. Using a combination of treats, toys, or praise matched to your dog's motivation to maintain focus and enthusiasm is also important. Increasing distance and distractions slowly so the dog builds confidence without becoming overwhelmed is key. Consistently using the same recall command and reward pattern helps avoid confusion.
Buying a recall training kit is a good idea, as it often includes a long-line leash and various high-value treats or toys. Playing with a dog inside and outside can influence how likely it is to recall, according to certified trainer Christie Catan. Practicing the recall again and again is key to building a reliable recall, but recalling a dog at the wrong times could punish its recall, so timing is essential.
Expert trainer Julianna DeWillems sums it up perfectly: "The secret to the perfect recall is 'Reps on reps on reps'." Every dog, including stubborn ones, can learn a dependable recall with patience, the best dog treats, and the best dog toys. Setting up distractions, like asking a friend or family member to play with the dog, to test the reliability of the recall is also recommended.
A recent review found that positive reinforcement for dogs is effective when done with consistency and patience. By following these steps and adopting a positive reinforcement approach, you'll be well on your way to having a dog that reliably comes when called, giving both you and your pet more freedom and reducing owner stress.
- Teaching 'middle' during training is beneficial for dogs, as it reduces pressure and enhances the reliability of the recall.
- During initial recall training, use a low-distraction environment and reward immediate returns with high-value treats or play to foster motivation and a strong positive association.
- Avoid allowing a dog to self-determine its actions during walks to maintain a strong recall; instead, provide additional access to its favorite activities to improve recall.
- Distraction training is vital for ensuring a dog returns on command, even in the presence of competing interests like other dogs, noises, or toys.
- Consistently using the same recall command and reward pattern helps avoid confusion, and varying treatment methods based on your dog's motivation is essential.
- Purchase a recall training kit that usually includes a long-line leash and high-value treats or toys, and incorporate timed practice sessions to establish a reliable recall.
