How to Train Your Dog to Come When Called: A Beginner’s Guide

How to Train Your Dog to Come When Called: A Beginner’s Guide

How to Train Your Dog to Come When Called: A Beginner’s Guide

Teaching your dog to come when called—also known as recall—is one of the most important commands for your dog’s safety and your peace of mind.This guide walks you through recall training step-by-step, using positive reinforcement to build reliability and trust.

Overview:

  • Train your dog to come here.

  • Covers prep, training and troubleshooting.

  • Keywords: train dog to come, dog recall training, puppy recall tips.

Why Recall Matters

A good recall can prevent accidents, keep your dog safe off-lead and build trust between you and your pup. It’s especially useful when:

  • Your dog is off-lead in a safe area.

  • Unexpected things pop up like other dogs or wildlife.

  • You need to redirect your dog in public.

Prepare to Train

Before you start recall training make sure you have:

  • High Value Treats: Something your dog can’t resist like cheese or chicken.

  • A Long Lead: Ideal for early training in open but safe areas.

  • Quiet Area: Start where there’s minimal distractions.

  • Positive Energy: Be enthusiastic so coming back is fun for your dog.

Step by Step Recall Training

  1. Indoors or in the Garden:

    • Call your dog’s name followed by “come” in a happy voice.

    • Encourage them with open arms, kneeling or a happy face.

  2. Reward Immediately:

    • When your dog comes to you, praise, treat or toy.

    • Even if it takes them a while, always reward the effort—never scold.

  3. Use a Long Lead Outdoors:

    • Practice in a park with a long training line so your dog has freedom but can’t run off.

    • Only reinforce “come” when you’re sure they’ll come.

  4. Add Distractions:

    • Introduce mild distractions like another person walking by.

    • Practice regularly in different places to build reliability.5. Play Recall Games:

    • Try games like hide and seek or “ping-pong recall” between two people to make it fun and reinforce the command.

  5. Release Word:

    • After rewarding, release your dog with a cue like “go play” so they know the training is over.

Tips

  • Consistency: Use the same recall word and tone every time.

  • Never Call for Punishment: Only use the command for good things.

  • Keep It Fun: Make coming back to you more rewarding than any distraction.

  • Short, Frequent Sessions: Train in 5-10 minute bursts.

Troubleshooting

  • Dog Ignores You Outside:

    • Go back a step and train in a less distracting environment with better rewards.

  • Comes but Then Runs Off Again:

    • Use a lead or fenced area and make the recall moment more engaging with toys or play.

  • Only Comes Indoors:

    • Generalise the command by training in different outdoor areas.

Summary

Recall is the most rewarding command to teach, your dog has freedom and you have peace of mind. With patience, positivity and consistency your dog will come running every time you call.

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