How to Teach Your Dog to Recall

Training your dog to come when called, or recall, is one of the most valuable skills you can teach. A strong recall helps keep your dog safe, allows for off-leash fun, and builds a trusting bond between you and your dog. Using positive reinforcement, you can make “come” a command your dog will eagerly respond to, even around distractions.

Supplies Needed for Teaching Your Dog to Come When Called

1. High-Value Treats: Use small, tasty treats that your dog loves, as recall training requires strong motivation.
2. Long Training Leash (10-30 feet): This will allow you to practice recall safely in open spaces while still maintaining some control.
3. Favorite Toy (Optional): If your dog loves toys, use one to make recall fun and rewarding.
4. Clicker (Optional): A clicker can help mark the exact moment your dog responds to “come.”

Step-by-Step Guide to Teaching A Dog to Come When Called

Step 1: Start with “Come” in a Distraction-Free Area

Begin training in a quiet, enclosed space like a room in your home or a fenced backyard. Stand a few feet away from your dog, say their name, and then say “come” in a cheerful tone. If your dog responds and approaches you, mark the behavior with a click or a “yes!” and immediately give a treat. Use a leash if your dog tends to wander off.

Repeat this exercise several times until your dog reliably responds to “come” in the quiet environment.

Step 2: Reward Generously

To make training exciting for your dog, reward them with high-value treats, praise, or a favorite toy when they come to you. This will help create a strong association between coming when called and positive outcomes.

Use multiple treats or give lots of praise to make the reward more memorable. Make coming to you feel like the best part of their day!

Step 3: Increase Distance Gradually

Once your dog reliably responds to “come” up close, increase the distance between you. Back up a few steps or move further away and call your dog. Continue rewarding generously each time they come to you. The goal is to build a habit of immediate recall, regardless of distance.

Step 4: Use a Long Leash Outdoors

When your dog understands “come” indoors, it’s time to take training outdoors. Use a long training leash to maintain control while giving your dog freedom to move around. Allow them to explore, then call them back to you by saying “come” in an upbeat voice. Reward as soon as they come, and let them resume exploring. This teaches them that responding to “come” doesn’t always end playtime, making them more willing to come back.

Step 5: Add Distractions Gradually

Recall can be challenging with distractions, so introduce them slowly. Start with mild distractions, like toys on the ground or family members nearby. When you say “come,” your dog should be focused on you despite these distractions. Reward generously each time they choose you over the distraction.

As your dog improves, increase the difficulty of distractions, eventually practicing around other dogs, people, or in public parks.

Step 6: Make It a Game

Turn recall practice into a game to keep it fun and engaging. Try calling your dog from different rooms in the house, hiding around corners, or practicing short “come” sessions in the yard. If you have a helper, you can also practice recalling from person to person. These games help build excitement around the command and make your dog more eager to respond.

Step 7: Practice Regularly

Repetition is essential for building a reliable recall. Practice daily, varying locations, and distances, and include some distractions. Regular practice helps make “come” a permanent skill your dog will remember and respond to.

Troubleshooting Common Recall Issues

1. If Your Dog Ignores “Come”: If your dog doesn’t respond, don’t chase them. Instead, make it fun by running the opposite direction, clapping, or crouching down to invite them over. Always use an enthusiastic tone, and avoid punishment to keep recall a positive experience.
2. Not Coming in High-Distraction Areas: Use a high-value treat or toy that you only bring out for recall training in distracting environments. Start with mild distractions and work up to more challenging ones.
3. “Come” Means the End of Fun: Avoid calling your dog to “come” only when you’re leaving the park or ending playtime. Occasionally call them, reward them, and then let them go back to playing. This will teach them that “come” doesn’t always mean the end of fun.

Tips for Building a Reliable Recall

• Practice Everywhere: Recall should work in every environment, so practice at home, in the yard, on walks, and eventually at parks and other public spaces.
• Reward Every Time: Always reward your dog for coming, even if it takes them a moment to respond. A consistent reward reinforces the behavior.
• Use a Happy Tone: Keep your voice upbeat and enthusiastic to make recall more inviting.
• Stay Patient: Recall takes time, especially in distracting environments. Stay consistent, patient, and make recall training enjoyable.
• Set Your Dog Up for Success: Don’t recall your dog if you know they won’t respond. Allowing your dog to ignore you will only teach them that recalls are optional. If your dog stops responding during training, end the session and practice again later. You always want to give your dog the opportunity to be successful.

When to Use Recall in Everyday Life

Teaching “come” goes beyond training sessions. A solid recall is helpful in everyday situations, such as:

• On Walks: If your dog is off-leash in a safe area and gets too far ahead, a quick “come” brings them back to you.
• Around Other Dogs: When you need to call your dog away from a potential interaction, a reliable recall is invaluable.
• In New Environments: In unfamiliar places, recall helps keep your dog close to you for safety and reassurance.
• For Emergencies: A strong recall could help prevent your dog from running into a dangerous situation, like a busy street.

Building a Lifelong Habit

A solid recall takes time to establish, but it’s a skill that will serve both you and your dog throughout their life. By practicing regularly, rewarding generously, and keeping the experience fun, you can make “come” a command your dog responds to eagerly, even in challenging situations.