It’s a dream of so many dog owners and probably the single thing I’m asked most about. It’s also a big topic, as I’m writing this at home I can look up from my PC and see maybe half a dozen books on the subject on my bookshelves. I’ll try and condense it into a single blog post but know there’ll be things I miss out.

Recall is to a Happy Place.

All too often, I see dogs who are only recalled to have their leads put on, get in the car and go home. If you were having a great time running around would you like that? Neither does your dog. Make recall a safe, happy place for them instead.

Start Young.

Always start young if you can. If you’re lucky enough to have a new puppy then you’re their world. You could do a lot worse than using that fact to get them off on the right track.

Long Leads.

If you’re not confident, for whatever reason that your dog is going to come straight back then keeping them on a long lead, until you’ve gained that confidence, maybe sensible. Use a horse lunge line. Your hands will thank you for it.

Make it Fun.

Lots of fun. Praise them when they get it right. Lots of fuss and treats. Then do it again. Your dog will learn that coming back to you is fun.

You Can Be Intimidating (even though you don’t mean to).

I know you don’t mean to be, but the reality is you’re probably 5 x heavier and 5 x taller than your dog. With the best will in the world recalling to your feet is likely to be intimidating for them. Bend your knees, spread your arms and make yourself a smaller friendly target. It really works.

Never Chase.

Never chase after your dog. I know sometimes it’s very tempting, but think about things from your dogs perspective. If you chase your dog, maybe shouting and maybe flapping your arms. Your dog will see you running, maybe barking, maybe flapping and what to them seems like you’re having a great time with them. Walk away instead.

At the End of the Day.

Recall needs to be to a safe place. Practice, make it a fun thing to do and when you really need bombproof recall you’ll have it.

I hope this goes a little way to providing insight into what is a rather big topic. Any questions please let me know.