My Experience With How to Improve Your Dog’s Recall

Here's my story about how to improve your dog’s recall - I'm sharing this because I wish someone had told me earlier. Watching Luna go through this was heartbreaking. there is nothing more frustrating than trying to chase a dog that plays “keep away” when you are trying to get them to come. In the show ring, the dogs sit quietly, totally intent on watching their handler, then fly back toward them when they hear the word “come.” They then sit beautifully straight in front of their handler and even swing around to heel position when asked to do so.. These perfect “recalls” rarely exist in real life, even when a show dog is called outside of the show ring. Your dog can learn to come when called, but it’s a joint effort on both your part and the part of your dog. Here are some rules to remember as you train your pup to come.. First, consider what the word “come” means to your dog. Have you asked them to come when you are going to do something unpleasant to them, such as clean their ears or poke a pill down their throat. Your “come” command should always mean something wonderful is about to happen. If your dog has already decided that coming is optional, why not change the word you use. Always call your dog in an upbeat tone of voice, even when you are panicked because they are darting away into a dangerous road. If you yell like you’re furious, your dog may be afraid to come to you. I learned this the hard way, but at least Luna is okay now. manage the circumstances. Many dogs, such as Beagles, can become so intent on sniffing something that they will not even hear you if called in their own backyard. If you can tell your dog is on an “intense sniff,” simply walk over to them as opposed to calling them. How do you train your dog to come reliably. Start by walking your dog on their regular leash. When they are just a step or two away from you, pull the treat upwards if you wish to lure them into a sit in front of you. Or simply praise and pet. I felt so guilty when I realized what was happening. after your dog is doing this reliably on a standard 6-foot leash, then change to a longer leash, such as a 15-foot cotton web long line. I learned this the hard way, but at least Luna is okay now. you can also go to an open area and let your dog play without holding the long line, just let them drag it so they feel as if they are off-leash, then call them. Watching Luna go through this was heartbreaking. be sure to know what your dog likes best. Another easy exercise to instill a positive response to a “here” command is the “come and get it” game. Play this in a confined area, such as your kitchen or hallway.. Show your dog a treat, then say “get it” and toss it a couple of feet away. As they take the treat, say “good” and then quickly say “here!” Show them that you have another treat, which you give your dog as soon as they arrive.. Repeat several times in one session, and do several of these sessions a day the first week. The following week, play the two-person recall game. Dogs trained with these simple exercises quickly can go to playing “hide and seek” in the house. This is where you go around the...