24 JulReliable Recalls: Teach Your Dog to Come Back Every Time

How reliable is your dog's recall? Will they come back to you when needed, no matter the situation?

Teaching your dog to come when called is an essential skill that can make a world of difference in ensuring their safety when providing them opportunities for off-leash time. Keep reading to learn the 5 rules you need to remember about training and maintaining a rock-solid recall. 

5 Rules of Recall

1. Never call your dog for anything unpleasant like nail clipping, bathing, or having his leash clipped on to go home from the park. In short, anything that might give him pause the next time you call him.
2. Never call your dog if you are not sure he will come. All recalls should be successful recalls. Work at your dog’s level: If he has a kindergarten-level recall, don’t give him a graduate assignment like being called away from a cat in a tree!
3. If you call your dog and he doesn’t come, you must make it happen. Run over to him and put a treat in front of his nose, backing up as you get his attention so he follows you.
4. Never repeat the cue. Resist the urge to repeat over and over and over. It only teaches your dog to tune out the cue. Call once and, if necessary, use rule 3 – make the recall happen.
5. Fabulous rewards get fabulous recalls. If you want your dog to stop whatever interesting thing he is doing and come running to you, make it worth his while. Use extra yummy treats—no dry biscuits—or a tossed ball or toy, if that’s your dog’s fancy.

FABULOUS REWARDS GET FABULOUS RECALLS

Need ideas for fabulous rewards? Try a liquid treat! Make your own and fill it yourself in our Liquid Treat Dispenser or get it pre-made with Bark Pouch in varying flavors.

“Both of my Rhodesian Ridgebacks will do pretty much ANYTHING for Bark Pouches! Sardines and Cream Cheese is one of their favorites.” – Michelle S.

“They are so easy to put in a pocket and take anywhere, and both my dogs and my cats are crazy for them. Highly recommend!” – Dixie T.

“These liquid treat dispensers are not only ingenious, but a lifesaver, stress-reducer, game-changer for our dogs! We have a seven month old puppy and a mischievous 5 yr old dog. We use the dispensers filled with peanut butter for walks, playing at the park, to distract them when someone comes to the door, etc… They’re so much easier than fumbling through a treat pouch when you need immediate access to a treat. If you don’t have one, get one asap!” – Sydney I.

Want to teach your dog a reliable rocking recall cue with step=by-step instructions and videos? Get our course here.