Top Tips for Recall Training Your Dog
Training your dog to come back when called—known as recall—is one of the most important skills they can learn. A reliable recall ensures your dog’s safety and makes off-the-lead adventures more enjoyable for both of you. At Maes Barcio, our secure dog park near Ruthin offers the perfect environment for practicing recall training without worrying about your dog wandering too far. Here are our top tips for teaching your dog to come back when called.
1. Start in a Controlled Environment
Begin recall training in a quiet, enclosed space, such as your garden or a secure area like Maes Barcio's dog park. Limiting distractions helps your dog focus on the training and makes it easier to build their confidence before practicing in more open environments.
2. Use High-Value Rewards
When your dog returns to you, make it worth their while! Use high-value treats, their favourite toy, or plenty of enthusiastic praise to reinforce their behaviour. Dogs are more likely to repeat actions that are rewarded, so always celebrate their success.
3. Choose a Clear, Consistent Command
Pick a single word or phrase, such as “Come!” or “Here!”, and stick with it. Avoid using your dog’s name alone as a recall command, as they may hear it often in other contexts. Consistency helps your dog associate the command with the action of returning to you.
4. Make It Fun
Recall training should be a positive experience. Turn it into a game by running in the opposite direction after calling your dog or crouching down with open arms to encourage them to come back. A playful approach keeps your dog excited and eager to respond.
5. Avoid Punishment
Never punish your dog for coming back late or after being distracted. This could make them hesitant to return next time. Always maintain a positive tone, even if their response isn’t immediate.
6. Practice in Different Locations
Once your dog has mastered recall in a controlled environment, practice in new locations with gradually increasing distractions. The secure and stimulating space at Maes Barcio is ideal for this stage of training, as your dog can explore while still being safely enclosed.
7. Gradually Increase Distance
Start by calling your dog from a short distance and gradually increase the space between you as their confidence grows. Use a long lead initially to guide them back if needed, ensuring their safety during early training.
8. Don’t Overuse the Command
Calling your dog too frequently during playtime can make the command lose its effectiveness. Use recall sparingly and only when necessary to ensure your dog remains responsive.
9. End on a Positive Note
Always finish recall training sessions with a success. Call your dog one last time, reward them generously, and allow them to relax or play to end the session on a positive note.
10. Practice Regularly
Like any skill, recall training requires consistency and repetition. Dedicate time each week to reinforce this behaviour in a variety of settings to maintain your dog’s responsiveness.
Book Your Visit to Maes Barcio Today!
Ready to give your dog the freedom they deserve in a safe, secure environment? Maes Barcio, the leading dog park near Ruthin, is the perfect place for off-the-lead dog training and walking. Book a slot now to experience the benefits firsthand and let your dog run, explore, and play to their heart’s content.
