Why Teaching a Reliable Recall is essential for every dog owner

“Training a dog to come back when called is giving them the freedom to explore safely..”

Real-Life Risks of an Unreliable Recall

Imagine this: you’re on a lovely walk with your dog, but in a flash, they’re off—drawn by the sight of another dog or maybe chasing after wildlife. You call their name, but they’re too focused on the chase to listen. After an exhausting search, you finally spot them, worn out and miles from where you started. For many dog owners, this is an all-too-familiar scene, and it highlights the real-life risks of not having a reliable recall.

Without a solid recall, your dog can unintentionally cause a lot of trouble: they can be a nuisance to other walkers, cyclists, or dogs, and even risk their own safety. Chasing wildlife across open fields or busy roads can quickly turn dangerous for both your dog and others around them.

In this post, we’ll look at why teaching a reliable recall is so important and offer three essential tips to help you build a strong recall foundation. Remember, if you’re struggling with recall training, seeking guidance from a professional can make all the difference.

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Why a Reliable Recall Matters

A reliable recall means you can trust your dog to return to you no matter what’s happening around them. It’s about safety, freedom, and respect—for you, your dog, and everyone you encounter on your walks. Without it, distractions like other dogs, wildlife, or tempting smells can lead your dog away, leaving them vulnerable to accidents or confrontations with others.

A strong recall builds a safe, enjoyable experience for both of you. It’s not just a skill; it’s a key part of a well-rounded, respectful relationship with your dog.

Tip 1: Practise Recalls Regularly Throughout Each Walk

Many dog owners treat recall as a “once or twice” command on a walk, but regular practice is essential. The more you ask your dog to come back to you in different situations, the stronger their response will be. Each recall becomes a small reminder that returning to you is rewarding and expected, so make sure you reward your dog for coming back to you every time they return. You don't have to feed them a treat every time, mix up the reward use treats, verbal praise and play to reward your dog for returning.

How to Practise During Walks:
Try calling your dog back every few minutes during your walk, not just when you’re ready to leave. Start in low-distraction environments and, as your dog improves, practise in more challenging settings. This way, your dog gets used to returning no matter what’s going on around them, making recall a natural part of their routine rather than a cue they hear only occasionally.

Tip 2: Use a Long Line to Prevent Recall Mistakes

If you’re working on recall but can’t yet trust your dog to come back immediately, a long line can be an invaluable tool. A long line allows your dog to explore while keeping them within reach, giving you control if they get distracted or start to wander too far. This way, they can practise recall safely without the chance to ignore your call or play keep-away.

Why a Long Line Helps with Recall Training:
A long line prevents your dog from making mistakes, like chasing after distractions or ignoring your recall cue. By limiting their ability to wander off, you reinforce that recall is non-negotiable and protect your dog from situations where they might fail. The long line also keeps your dog focused on you, as they learn that coming back on command is the only way to continue their freedom safely.

Tip 3: Don’t Only Recall When It’s Time to Go Home

One of the biggest mistakes many owners make is recalling their dog only when it’s time to end the walk. This teaches the dog that recall means “fun is over,” making them more likely to resist coming back when they’re having a good time.

How to Avoid This Mistake:
Instead, try recalling your dog at different times throughout your walk, clipping their lead on for a few metres, and then letting them off again. This shows your dog that returning to you doesn’t mean the end of their freedom—it’s simply part of the routine. Over time, this will make your dog much more willing to come back when called, even when they’re in the middle of exploring or playing.

The Lifelong Benefits of a Reliable Recall

Teaching your dog a reliable recall isn’t just about your dog listening to you; it’s about fostering a bond built on trust, respect, and safety. A strong recall transforms your walks, giving you both the freedom to explore, play, and connect without worry. Recall training also opens doors to new activities, from hiking and beach days to dog-friendly events or participating in dog sports such as Hoopers or Agility, knowing your dog will respond when it counts most really does give you piece of mind.

With regular practice, clear boundaries, and a few engaging and reward based training techniques, you can develop a recall that stands up to distractions, giving you the confidence to trust your dog to enjoy off-lead experiences and encourages your dog to stay tuned in to you. Remember, while 100% recall may not be achievable for every dog, a consistent, reliable recall will protect your dog from potential risks, keep others around you comfortable, and allow you both to make the most of every outing together.

If you’re finding it challenging to build a strong recall or struggling with specific distractions, reaching out to a professional trainer can make all the difference. I offer tailored training to address recall issues and help your dog reach their full potential, so don’t hesitate to contact me for guidance. Together, we’ll make reliable recall a reality, setting the foundation for a lifetime of safe, joyful adventures with your dog.

If you are looking for help with recall issues and you would like a tailored training package that will help make a reliable recall a reality for you and your dog then click here and book a free Discovery call with me today!