How to Teach A Dog to Come: 5 Steps for Reliable Recall

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You’re at a park, enjoying an off-leash romp with your dog, when they see a squirrel.

Your dog takes off after the critter. You call your dog. Come!

Ignored.

Panic sets in as your dog chases the squirrel into the street.

Your dog gets lucky (while others don’t) and evades the oncoming cars, but they still won’t come when called and suddenly you’re in a wild goose chase in the park. Panic turns to frustration and embarrassment by the time you eventually catch and leash your dog.

This may sound dramatic, but it’s a scene I witness on a regular basis… and guess what?

It is easily preventable.

That’s why I’ve written this blog post. As a professional dog trainer, I want to help dog owners learn how to teach a dog to come when called and the safety measures they can take to lead up to off-leash freedom.

Are you ready to take those steps? Let’s dive in!

Why You Should Teach Your Dog To Come When Called

There are many reasons why every dog should be properly trained to recall:

• Safety Hazard: A dog that blows you off can end up in dangerous situations, like running onto busy roads or encountering harmful animals.
• Not Everyone Likes Dogs: Even if your dog has the best intentions with strangers, they could wander up to someone who is afraid.
• Not All Dogs Are Friendly: Even though your dog is friendly, other dogs might not be. And I hate to break it to you, but it will be your fault if your dog gets hurt.
• Common Courtesy: Having a trained dog in public places shows respect to others and ensures enjoyable outings without unnecessary disruptions. You’re more likely to get a compliment, too!

How to Teach a Dog to Come When Called

1. Start small
2. Call your dog & reward them
3. Cue the distractions!
4. Use the long line for guidance
5. Practice, practice, practice!

Before You Get Started: Gather Your Tools

To ensure a more streamlined and easy process, keep these tools on hand at all times when working on your recall:

• Lightweight Long Line: This long leash is essential for safely training your dog while giving them freedom. A 15 or 20 ft line is a good start.
• Treat Pouch: Keep those rewards handy!
• Medium-value Dog Treats: Good for initial training phases.
• High-value Treats: Essential for reinforcing the recall amidst distractions.

Failure to have these tools on hand whenever you take your dog out for recall can cause major hiccups in the training process.

Step 1: Start small

Start in a low-distraction environment. Attach your dog to a long line and toss a treat a short distance away. As your dog goes after it, get ready for the next step.

Step 2: Call your dog & reward them

Call your dog by name, followed by “come!” while taking a few steps back. As they begin to move towards you, mark it by saying “yes!” and present a treat, enticing them further. Once they reach you, reward your dog with a treat. Repeat this process, increasing the distance over time.

Step 3: Cue the distractions!

Cue the distractions! Once they consistently come to you enthusiastically, it’s time to up the ante. Gradually introduce them to more distracting environments. An empty park can serve as a middle ground before advancing to more populated areas.

If distractions prove too much, don’t be disheartened. Go back to the previous step but lure them with a high-value reward. Remember, it’s a game, and the goal is for them to enjoy it.

Step 4: Use the long line for guidance

Persistence is key. Should they get distracted, use the long line to remind them of the game at hand gently. Upon their return, shower them with praise and treats like a party!

Step 5: Practice, practice, practice!

Regular practice, around 2-3 times a week, keeps this skill sharp. Always remember to keep it fun and rewarding. Consider going off the long line once they’ve mastered this for a few months. If you or your dog are struggling or want professional guidance before venturing off-leash, consult a dog trainer to learn what you need to do to reach your dog training goals!

Tips for teaching a reliable recall

• Always Reward: Every recall deserves a reward 100% of the time. It builds a positive association with coming to you and increases the likelihood of them returning to you over other distractions, and positive reinforcement matters with this command.
• Safety First: Always keep your dog on a long line, as this ensures your dog stays within a reasonable distance during training.
• Practice Makes Perfect: If you have a safe, enclosed area, such as an empty dog park or courtyard, test your dog’s off-leash recall, but ensure they’ve made significant progress first.
• Don’t Overdo It: Avoid overusing this command. Too much repetition can make it mundane for your furry friend.
• Make a Game of It: When training your dog alongside someone else, alternate in calling your dog back and forth between the two of you. Each time they respond, reward their effort with a delectable treat or a beloved toy.
• Drop to the Ground: In a crisis where your dog isn’t heeding your call, try dropping to the ground and feigning unconsciousness. This unexpected action can pique their curiosity, prompting them to approach you. As they draw near, swiftly secure their collar, attach their leash, and reward them with a treat for their compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Taking the time to learn how to teach a dog to come when called is more than just a convenience; it’s a fundamental aspect of their safety and your peace of mind. Achieving reliable recall is a testament to the trust and understanding between you and your canine companion. It requires patience, consistency, and consistent reinforcement, but the rewards—a dog that listens and responds to you under any circumstance—are immeasurable.

Remember, the goal is to build a bond so strong that your dog chooses you over a tempting distraction. With the right approach, your calls will become an irresistible invitation they can’t wait to accept.

Hungry for more tips on strengthening your bond and enhancing your dog’s training? Join my community of dedicated dog lovers. Subscribe to my newsletter for expert training advice, behavioral insights, and the support you need to nurture a happy, well-behaved dog.