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How to teach your dog to come when called
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Secrets to Dog Training
Covers obedience basics including recall, according to the vendor.
Step-by-step
- Charge the cue: say the word, give a high-value treat, repeat 10 times.
- Indoors: call from a few metres, reward at your feet.
- Garden: add distance and mild distraction.
- Outdoors on a 5–10 m long line attached to a harness.
- Proof: practise near distractions, increasing slowly.
Games that build recall
- Ping-pong recall between two people.
- Hide-and-seek.
- Chase-me: run away as you call.
Secrets to Dog Training
Covers obedience basics including recall, according to the vendor.
Why recall breaks
Calling only to end fun, calling repeatedly without follow-through, and telling a dog off when they finally return. Each one teaches the cue is bad news.
Safety
Keep dogs on a lead near roads and livestock. In the UK, farmers may lawfully act against dogs worrying livestock; follow the Countryside Code.
Common questions
At what age can you teach recall?
From the day your puppy comes home.
What if my dog ignores recall?
Go back to a long line and an easier environment, and use better rewards.
Should I use a whistle?
A whistle carries far and sounds consistent; train it the same way as a word.
What we’d look at next
Secrets to Dog Training
Covers obedience basics including recall, according to the vendor.
Brain Training for Dogs
Focus and impulse-control games that support recall.
Not sure which fits? Take the 30-second quiz or see our comparisons.
Related comparisons: Brain Training for Dogs vs Secrets to Dog Training · Best online guides for pet behaviour problems
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Get the free PDF
A short PDF: seven short, reward-based training sessions to build focus, a reliable sit, settling on a mat and loose-lead basics, plus a cat litter-tray checklist.