Reliable Recall
One of the most important, and arguably first, commands you should teach your dog is recall – the ability to come to you when called. Reliable recall ensures your dog's safety and allows for greater freedom during off-leash activities. In this blog post, we’ll explore the steps to train a reliable recall, provide tips for success, and discuss common challenges and how to overcome them.
Why Recall is Important
Recall is not just a convenient command; it's crucial for your dog's safety. Whether you're at a busy park, near a road, or in any potentially hazardous situation, a strong recall can prevent accidents and keep your dog safe. Additionally, it allows your dog to enjoy more freedom and exercise off-leash, leading to a happier and healthier life.
Steps to Train a Reliable Recall
Choose a Recall Command:
Select a unique word or phrase for your recall command, such as "come," "here," or "recall."
Ensure everyone in the household uses the same command consistently.
Start in a Controlled Environment:
Begin training in a quiet, distraction-free area inside your home.
Use a leash or training line to maintain control while giving your dog some freedom to move.
Use High-Value Rewards:
Choose treats or toys that your dog finds highly motivating.
Reserve these rewards exclusively for recall training to make the command more exciting for your dog.
Associate the Command with Positive Experiences:
While your dog is looking at you, call your dog using the recall command in a cheerful, enthusiastic voice.
If they don’t immediately come to you, start walking backwards away from them. This will incentivize them to follow you.
When your dog comes to you, stop moving. and reward them immediately with praise, treats, or playtime.
Gradually increase distraction level & distance
Repeat this process. This time, wait until your dog looks away but is still calm. then, give the command.
As your dog succeeds, gradually allow them to be more distracted before giving the command.
Practicing recall while your dog is distracted is the only way to give you a reliable recall in the real world when you need it.
As your dog continues to succeed give the recall command from further and further distances.
Practice Regularly:’
Incorporate recall training into your daily routine.
Practice in various environments to generalize the behavior.
Use different scenarios, such as calling your dog during playtime or when they're sniffing around.
Tips for Successful Recall Training
Make it Fun:
Keep training sessions short and engaging.
Use games like hide-and-seek or fetch to reinforce the recall command.
Make it a game for yourself to see from how far away you can recall your dog.
Avoid Repetition:
Don't overuse the recall command in non-training situations to prevent it from losing its effectiveness.
Avoid calling your dog for negative experiences, like ending playtime or bath time, to keep the command positive.
Be Patient and Consistent:
Training takes time and repetition..
Stay consistent with your command, rewards, and expectations.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Distractions:
If your dog is repeatedly failing the command, the context is too difficult- go back to practicing from a shorter distance or at lower levels of distraction
Gradually introduce distractions during training.
Start with low-level distractions and increase difficulty as your dog improves.
Selective Hearing:
Ensure your dog is motivated by using high-value rewards.
Practice in different environments to build reliability.
Running Away:
If your dog runs away when you call, avoid chasing them.
Instead, practice on a long line so that you have the ability to guide them back and reward them for returning.
Advanced Recall Training
Emergency Recall:
Train a special emergency recall command for urgent situations.
When you give the command run in the opposite direction of the dog, to encourage them to run all the way to you.
Use a high-value reward and practice regularly to ensure reliability.
Off-Leash Recall:
Once your dog is reliable on a long leash, practice off-leash in a safe, enclosed area.
Gradually increase the level of distractions and distance.
Conclusion
Building a reliable recall takes time, patience, and consistency, but the effort is well worth it. By following these steps and tips, you can train your dog to come when called, ensuring their safety and enhancing your bond. Remember to keep training sessions fun and engaging, use high-value rewards, and practice regularly in various environments. With dedication and positive reinforcement, your dog will master the recall command and enjoy greater freedom and safety.
Summary of Key Points
Choose a Recall Command: Select a unique and consistent word or phrase.
Start in a Controlled Environment: Begin in a distraction-free area with a long leash.
Use High-Value Rewards: Choose treats or toys that your dog finds highly motivating.
Associate the Command with Positive Experiences: Reward your dog immediately for coming when called.
Practice Regularly: Incorporate recall training into your daily routine and various environments.
Make it Fun: Keep sessions short and engaging, and use games to reinforce recall.
Be Patient and Consistent: Stay consistent with your command, rewards, and expectations.
Advanced Recall Training: Train an emergency recall and practice off-leash in safe areas.
With these strategies, you'll build a reliable recall that keeps your dog safe and strengthens your relationship. Be sure to tune in next week as we will address how to teach a dog to relax and it might not be what you expect!