I've put together some simple tips and tricks to help you with our dogs recall! These are ideas for you to try on your adventures or even at your own home with your dog. There are also many other techniques to training good recall, but what is most important is consistency and your dedication to your dogs training!
If you are a local Geelong resident I also offer Recall Training Classes here in Herne Hill, Geelong. For more info on these classes click here - I NEED RECALL HELP!!!
1. Start with a solid foundation
Before you start training your dog to come when called, make sure they understand the basic commands like "sit," "stay," and "come."
2. Use a long recall lead (long line)
Start training in a quiet, enclosed area with a long leash. This will give your dog some freedom to explore while still allowing you to have control. If you do need a long line I hand make and sell them! Australian Made using Australian made webbing. Check them out HERE!
3. Don't let your dog have to whole long lead to begin with
If they run at full speed they will get clothes-lined (and your hand will hurt)! Start with a length like your normal lead, then slowly allow the dog more lead as they move away.
4. Just stand there for a couple of moments
Once your dog is at the end of the long lead, let them get used to the distance of the lead. You will find your dog eventually look back at you asking, "What are we doing human?" At that very moment praise your dog. Always praise any eye contact your dog gives you. This encourages your dog to be engaged with you and give you a better chance of your dog listening to you.
5. Use positive reinforcement
Reward your dog with treats, praise, or their favorite toy when they come to you when called. This will help them associate the action with something positive.
6. Avoid punishment
Never punish your dog for not coming when called. This will only make them less likely to respond in the future. Same goes with when they do eventually come back or you get to them, don't give them a hard time and lecture them like they are a human toddler. They won't like it that much and it will just be confusing. Why would a dog ever want to come back to you if you're going to be mean to it? You need to be the biggest reward to the dog. You always want your dog to associate you with positivity.
7. Make it fun
Incorporate games into your training sessions to make them more enjoyable for your dog. For example, you can hide treats around the house and call your dog to come find them.
8. Practice regularly
Make sure to practice recall training regularly, even after your dog has mastered the command. This will help reinforce the behaviour and keep it fresh in their mind.
9. Start small
Begin training in a quiet, low-distraction environment before gradually increasing the level of distraction. This will help your dog learn to focus on you even with distractions.
10. Be patient
Recall training takes time and patience. Don't get frustrated if your dog doesn't respond immediately - just keep practicing and rewarding positive behaviour.
11. Manage the excess lead
As the dog gets closer, take up the slack of the line. Be in control of your dog.
12. Give your dog a pat for me! Cheers, Scott
Comments