Teaching your dog to come when called—also known as recall training—is one of the most important commands you can teach. A reliable recall can keep your dog safe in emergencies, prevent accidents, and give you the freedom to enjoy off-leash adventures together.
But getting your dog to return every time, even with distractions, takes more than just calling their name. In this guide, we’ll show you how to build a strong recall step by step using positive reinforcement and proven training techniques.
Why Dogs Ignore Recall Commands
If your dog doesn’t come when called, it’s not because they’re stubborn—it’s usually because:
- The command wasn’t properly taught
- There are more exciting distractions
- They associate “come” with the end of fun (leash, bath, going inside)
- They’ve been punished after returning in the past
A successful recall is built on trust, practice, and reward—not pressure or frustration.
Step-by-Step Recall Training Guide
✅ Step 1: Choose a Unique Recall Cue
Pick a word that is short, consistent, and not overused.
Examples:
- “Come!”
- “Here!”
- “Let’s go!”
- A whistle or hand signal
Use a happy, enthusiastic tone—and never use the recall word in anger.
✅ Step 2: Start Indoors or in a Low-Distraction Area
Begin training in a quiet space like your living room or backyard.
How to start:
- Say your recall cue in an excited voice
- Take a few steps backward—encourage your dog to follow
- When they come to you, immediately reward with treats and praise
- Repeat 5–10 times per session
Make “coming to you” the best part of your dog’s day.
✅ Step 3: Use High-Value Rewards
Use treats that your dog never gets otherwise—cheese, chicken, or a favorite toy.
Tips:
- Vary your rewards to keep it exciting
- Always praise with a smile and happy energy
- End the session on a positive note
Dogs learn faster when the reward is better than the distraction.
✅ Step 4: Practice on a Long Line Outdoors
Use a 15–30 foot training leash in a safe, open area.
Practice:
- Let your dog explore
- Call your recall cue and run a few steps away
- If they come, reward heavily
- If not, gently guide them with the leash—then reward when they arrive
Never yank the leash—you’re teaching, not forcing.
✅ Step 5: Add Distractions Slowly
Once your dog responds reliably in quiet settings, increase the difficulty.
Practice recall:
- At the park (away from dogs first)
- Around mild distractions (birds, kids playing)
- With another person calling too
- During playtime or mid-sniff
Always praise even partial efforts and build slowly. Don’t call if you know they won’t respond—this weakens the cue.
✅ Step 6: Play Recall Games
Make training fun with games that build strong habits.
- Hide and seek: Call your dog from another room
- Ping-pong recall: Take turns calling your dog between two people
- Chase me: Call and jog away—they’ll love following you
Games increase speed and enthusiasm in your dog’s response.
What Not to Do
- ❌ Don’t punish your dog after they come (even if they were misbehaving before)
- ❌ Don’t only use “come” to end fun (like leaving the park)
- ❌ Don’t repeat the cue over and over
- ❌ Don’t call your dog if you’re not ready to reward or follow through
Consistency is key.
Tips for a Rock-Solid Recall
- Use your recall cue randomly, not just when you need it
- Occasionally call your dog, reward them, then let them go back to playing
- Practice recall daily, even in the house
- Mark good behavior with a clicker or a consistent marker word
When to Go Off-Leash
Only allow off-leash freedom when:
- Your dog has a 90%+ recall rate in distractions
- You’re in a secure, legal off-leash area
- You’re carrying treats or rewards
- You’ve practiced emergency recall
Use a GPS or tracking collar for added safety in wide-open spaces.
Conclusion
Teaching your dog to come when called isn’t just a convenience—it’s a lifesaving skill. With the right cue, consistent rewards, and fun training sessions, you’ll build a recall your dog trusts and loves to obey. And when that recall is solid, the world becomes your playground.
Want a printable recall checklist and video demo? Visit our Recall Training Center to get started.