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How to Improve My Dog's Recall?

Effective recall is one of the most important skills to teach your dog. With patience, practice, and encouragement, your dog will learn to come back when called, ensuring their safety and strengthening your bond. Recall training is a valuable investment for serene and enjoyable walks.

Understanding the Basics of Recall

Recall involves asking your dog to come back to you when called, regardless of the environment or distractions. It is a matter of safety and essential control during walks.

Good recall requires building a trusting relationship with your dog and ensuring they perceive your command as an invitation to something positive. Understanding the factors that can affect your dog's ability to come back (such as fear, distractions, or past negative associations) is essential before starting training.

Recommended Equipment for Recall

Long Line: A 5 to 15-meter long line allows you to train recall safely in open spaces. It offers a good compromise between freedom and control.
Collar or Harness: Opt for comfortable equipment suited to your dog's morphology. An anti-pull harness can be useful to avoid unnecessary tension.
Recall Whistle: A whistle emits a consistent sound, useful if your voice alone isn't enough to get your dog's attention. Dogs often respond better to this type of neutral signal.
High-Value Treats: Choose irresistible rewards like pieces of meat or treats specially designed for dogs. These rewards should be used exclusively for recall to maximize their effectiveness.
Favorite Toys: A favorite toy can be an excellent alternative to treats for rewarding your dog. For example, a ball or rope can motivate some dogs.

Progressive Recall Training

To ensure success, proceed in steps:

Use a Specific Word: Choose a clear word like "Come" or "Here" and be consistent in its use. Avoid using words that you frequently use in other contexts.
Start at Home: Practice in a distraction-free environment. Stand a short distance from your dog, call them enthusiastically, and reward them immediately upon their return.
Gradually Increase Distractions: Once your dog consistently comes back at home, move to a quiet garden or park. Gradually work in more stimulating environments, such as parks with other dogs.
Reward Consistently: Provide a generous reward each time your dog obeys the recall. The positive association reinforces the desire to come back.

For hesitant dogs, you can run in the opposite direction or crouch down to encourage them to come back.

Creating a Positive Association with Recall

To ensure your dog always obeys the recall:

Never call them to scold them or to end an activity they enjoy (like playing in the park).
Use a joyful and motivating tone of voice. Dogs are very sensitive to intonation.
Alternate rewards between treats, toys, and petting to maintain their interest.
Associate recall with pleasant events, such as a walk or playtime.

Working in Different Environments

To make recall reliable, expose your dog to various environments:

Leash Training: Use a long line in open spaces to test and reinforce recall safely.
Interaction with Other Dogs: Train recall in dog parks or during group walks to simulate real situations with significant distractions.
Natural Areas: Train recall in wooded areas or near water, where the stimuli are different.

Reliable recall requires regular repetition in varied contexts to ensure your dog obeys in all circumstances.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Calling Too Often: If you use recall without a valid reason, your dog might ignore the command.
Lacking Consistency: Be consistent in your commands, tone, and rewards.
Ignoring Distractions: Gradually introduce distractions to prepare your dog for real situations.
Not Reinforcing Enough: Offer attractive rewards to maintain your dog's interest.

Consulting a Professional if Necessary

If, despite your efforts, your dog struggles to master recall, a professional dog trainer can help. They will analyze your dog's behaviors and offer techniques tailored to their temperament.