Recall is one of the most important skills for a dog's safety and independence. Knowing how to come back immediately when called helps prevent accidents, makes walks easier, and strengthens the bond between owner and dog. Yet, many owners get discouraged because their companion doesn't always obey. The good news is that recall can be taught at any age, provided you use a progressive, positive, and age-appropriate method.
In this article, you'll discover a complete method for teaching your dog recall , the mistakes to avoid, and the essential exercises for achieving a reliable return in all situations. We'll also include recommended accessories to facilitate training, such as training leashes and reward toys.
Why is recall training essential for your dog?
Recall isn't just a command; it's a true safety skill. A dog that consistently comes back avoids dangers (cars, other aggressive dogs, running away, wild animals). It's also a sign of trust: the dog comes back because it knows it will bring something positive.
A reliable reminder also allows:
- freer and more enjoyable walks;
- better overall listening;
- less tension in the relationship;
- safe autonomy for the dog.
Step 1: Construct a clear and positive reminder word
The first key element is to choose a short, consistent callback word, always spoken with enthusiasm. The best words are: “Here!” , “Come!” , or “Come back!” . Avoid long, unnecessary calls or entire sentences.
When choosing your word, make sure:
- never use it in a negative context;
- to systematically associate this word with a reward;
- to use it only when you are sure the dog can succeed.
Step 2: Begin the recall in a distraction-free environment
Recall training begins at home or in a garden, where nothing will distract your dog. Call him with your chosen word, crouch down, open your arms, and praise him excessively as soon as he takes a step towards you.
At this stage, the reward needs to be highly motivating: treats, petting, a gentle voice, or even an interactive toy. You can use our Treat Launcher Toy for dogs – ideal for motivating recall .
Step 3: Use a long line to teach reliable recall
Once the basics are established, it's time to venture into more stimulating environments: parks, paths, grass, new places. Recall training is then practiced using a long leash, which allows the dog to explore while remaining safe.
The long line helps your dog understand that it must come back despite distractions, while still allowing you to regain control if necessary. For this training, we recommend the 15m to 50m Dog Training Long Line – ideal for reinforcing recall .
How to work:
- Let the dog explore calmly.
- Call him in a cheerful tone.
- Gently guide with the lead rope if necessary.
- Reward him handsomely when he returns.
The goal is to create an automatic response: when he hears his recall word, he turns to you and comes back motivated.
Step 4: Recall in stimulating environments
When the recall is reliable with the long line, you can move on to increasingly complex places: wooded paths, busy areas, presence of other dogs or external stimuli.
At this stage, the most common mistake is letting the dog off-leash too soon. Take your time: recall training takes several weeks, sometimes several months, depending on your dog's temperament.
Also, remember to vary the rewards: much-loved treats, play sessions, a toy to fetch, and petting. The goal is for your dog to always find it more rewarding to come back to you than to explore.
Step 5: Keep the recall reliable in the long term
A well-learned recall requires maintenance. Even a dog that comes back perfectly can regress if it is no longer rewarded or if it encounters excessive distractions without preparation.
Here are the best practices:
- reward randomly (but regularly);
- make small reminders while walking;
- Never punish a dog that comes back, even if it took a while;
- continue lungeing exercises from time to time;
- make your presence always positive.
Mistakes to absolutely avoid
Many dogs don't obey the recall command because they've lost faith in it. Here are the most common mistakes:
- calling the dog to end a pleasant moment (e.g., going home);
- use an angry or stressed tone;
- repeat the reminder ten times in a row;
- punish after the return;
- releasing too early in a complicated environment.
Remember: a dog must want to come back to you. It must know that coming back is always the best option.
Supplement education with other essential exercises
Recall training is part of a set of important exercises: walking at heel, managing emotions, self-control, and the ability to ignore distractions. To improve walks, you can also practice walking at heel with a suitable leash, such as the Steel Lasso Dog Leash – perfect for training in heelwork .
By combining recall + walking to heel + self-control, you get a balanced, attentive and safe dog outdoors.
Conclusion: Recall is a cornerstone of the relationship with your dog.
Teaching your dog recall is a valuable investment, both for their safety and your peace of mind. With a positive approach, appropriate equipment, and consistent training, your companion will become reliable, attentive, and fully responsive.
Remember to equip yourself properly to succeed from the very first training sessions:
- Treat-launching toy – to motivate the dog during training;
- 15m–50m dressage lunge line – essential for building a solid recall;
- Steel lasso lead – ideal to complement heel walking.
With patience, kindness and a good method, your dog can learn to come back quickly… and happily!
