Training your dog to reliably come when called is one of the most important commands you can teach. Not only does it keep your dog safe, but it also strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend. While it might take some patience and practice, with the right approach, you can train your dog to respond quickly and reliably every time you call them.
In this guide, we’ll address why dogs stop coming when called, the biggest mistakes owners make during recall training, and a step-by-step method for teaching your dog to come when called.
Key Takeaways
• Lack of consistent practice and age, and distractions can cause dogs to stop coming when initially trained.
• Avoid chasing your dog when they don’t come to you; instead, stay calm and try again.
• Start training with a long lead in a quiet space, then gradually increase the distance and distractions.
• Recall training differs for puppies, adult dogs, and rescue dogs, requiring tailored approaches based on the dog’s age and history.
Why Do Most Dogs Stop Coming When Called After Initially Learning It?
It’s frustrating when your dog learns the “come” command but stops responding after a while. This often happens for two main reasons:
Age: As your puppy grows, they begin to explore their independence. The puppy who once stuck to you like glue may start to test boundaries and see what happens when they don’t come when called. This is a normal part of their development, but it can lead to inconsistent recall behaviour if not addressed.
Lack of Practice: Recall is a skill that needs to be maintained throughout your dog’s life. Just like any other behaviour, the more practice your dog gets, the better they’ll become at responding to the “come” command. If you don’t consistently reinforce the recall command, your dog may start to lose the habit and become distracted by other things in their environment.
The key to reliable recall is to continue practicing regularly, especially as your dog matures. Keeping the training fun and engaging will help your dog remain responsive to the command
What’s the Biggest Mistake Dog Owners Make When Teaching Recall?
One of the biggest mistakes owners make when teaching recall is chasing their dog when they don’t come. When you chase your dog to get them to return, you’re unintentionally making the recall process more exciting for them, which can turn into a game. This only reinforces the behaviour of running away or avoiding the command.
Instead, if your dog doesn’t come when called, stay calm and don’t chase them. Use a cheerful, enthusiastic tone to make coming to you sound fun. It’s also crucial to never show frustration or anger when your dog doesn’t respond, as this can create a negative association with the recall command. Practice patience and focus on reinforcing the positive moments when they do come to you.
What Is the Step-by-Step Method for Building Reliable Recall?
Building reliable recall in your dog requires gradual training that progresses from basic to more advanced steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you train your dog to come when called:
Step 1: Start with a Long Lead in a Low-Distraction Area
Begin training in a quiet, controlled environment with minimal distractions. Attach a long lead or leash to your dog to give them some freedom to roam while still being under control. Hold the leash and call your dog’s name, followed by the “come” command.
When your dog comes toward you, praise them immediately and reward them with a treat. They must associate coming to you with something positive. If they don’t come right away, gently guide them toward you using the leash, but make sure to praise them as soon as they make the effort to move toward you.
Step 2: Increase Distance and Distractions Gradually
Once your dog responds reliably in a low-distraction area, start practicing in environments with more distractions (like your backyard, a park, or a busy street). Increase the distance between you and your dog while maintaining the same cheerful, positive tone when calling them to come.
It’s important to remember that the more distracted the environment, the harder it will be for your dog to focus. Start with shorter distances and gradually increase as they become more consistent.
Step 3: Practice Off-Leash Recall in a Safe, Enclosed Area
When your dog reliably responds to the recall command with the long lead, start practicing in a safe, enclosed area where your dog can run freely. Remove the lead and call them from different distances. Continue to reward them with praise and treats when they come to you.
What Should an Owner Do in the Moment When Their Dog Doesn’t Come?
Daily practice is always key to reliable recall. Make sure your dog is always leashed before going outside. If a mistake happens, and your dog escapes before you have a reliable recall, don’t chase. Sit down, or start turning/walking away. Always call happily, and make it sound fun to come to you. Never sound frustrated.
Does Recall Training Differ for Puppies vs. Adult Dogs vs. Rescue Dogs?
Yes, recall training does differ depending on your dog’s age and experience. Here’s how training varies:
• Puppies: Puppies have less stamina and are easily distracted. Generally, a puppy can handle about 5 minutes of activity for each month of age.
This means that a 3-month-old puppy might only be able to focus for around 15 minutes during a training session. As they grow, their attention span will improve, but they will still be distracted by many things as they explore the world around them.
• Adult Dogs: Adult dogs typically have more stamina and can handle longer training sessions, ranging from 20 minutes to an hour, depending on their breed. An adult dog can also filter out distractions more effectively than a puppy and focus on the task at hand. This makes it easier to maintain focus during training, even in environments with more distractions.
• Rescue Dogs: While not directly related to age, rescue dogs may require additional patience and understanding in recall training. Depending on their past experiences, they might be more hesitant or distracted. It’s important to build trust and slowly introduce training in a positive, low-stress environment.
Whether you’re working with a puppy, adult dog, or rescue dog, it’s essential to adapt your training sessions to match their stamina and ability to filter out distractions. Bark Busters trainers are experts in tailoring recall training to suit your dog’s unique needs. Our in-home training approach ensures that your dog receives personalized attention, whether they’re a young puppy, a mature adult, or a rescue dog with a history of trauma.
Conclusion
Training your dog to come when called is essential for both their safety and your peace of mind. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can teach your dog to reliably respond to the recall command. If you need assistance or personalized help with recall training, Bark Busters is here to help. Schedule a session with one of our expert trainers and improve your dog’s recall reliability.
FAQs
How long will it take to train my dog to reliably come when called?
The time it takes to train your dog to reliably come when called depends on factors such as your dog’s age, breed, and the consistency of your training. With regular practice, many dogs can learn to come when called in a few weeks. However, it may take longer if distractions are present or if your dog is more independent. Bark Busters can help speed up the process with personalized, in-home training tailored to your dog’s needs.
Can I train my dog to come when called off-leash?
Yes, you can train your dog to come when called off-leash, but it requires careful practice. Start with a long leash in a controlled environment with few distractions, and gradually increase the distance. Once your dog reliably responds on-leash, begin practicing in low-distraction areas without the leash. Over time, you can introduce more distractions and increase the level of difficulty. Want help with off-leash training? Let Bark Busters help you build a solid foundation. Contact us today to get started!
How do I teach my dog to come when called in the water?
Teaching recall in or around water adds a layer of complexity, as dogs often have different priorities in water, such as playing or swimming. Start by practicing recall on dry land first, ensuring your dog is comfortable with the command. Gradually introduce water in a calm, low-pressure environment, such as a shallow area or a small pool, and use the recall command during short sessions. It’s important to remain patient and to gradually build their confidence in the water. Let Bark Busters help with training in diverse environments. Book a training session with a trainer near you.
How can I reinforce recall during outdoor adventures like hiking or camping?
Outdoor adventures can provide a great opportunity to practice recall in more natural environments. To reinforce recall during hikes or camping, keep your dog on a long lead initially and practice calling them back to you when they wander. Reward them generously when they come to you, especially in the presence of new smells, sounds, or wildlife. Over time, you can gradually reduce the length of the lead as your dog becomes more reliable in these environments.