Recall doesn’t need to be complicated. Often, small changes in how you practise can lead to noticeable improvements very quickly. These quick recall wins focus on building motivation, trust, and consistency — so your dog wants to come back to you.

Make Coming Back Worth It

If recall only ever leads to the lead going on or fun stopping, your dog will think twice about returning.

Reward every recall with something your dog genuinely values:

• Food 🦴

• A favourite toy 🧸

• Praise and attention 👏

Sometimes, call your dog back, reward them, and let them go again. This teaches them that coming back doesn’t always mean the fun is over.

Use a Recall Word You Can Commit To

Choose one clear recall word and only use it when you’re confident you can reinforce it.

Avoid:

• Repeating your dog’s name

• Calling multiple times

• Using your recall cue when you know your dog won’t respond

One cue, one opportunity, followed by a positive outcome, helps your dog learn that recall really matters.

Start Closer Than You Think

If recall feels unreliable, the environment may be too challenging. Go back to where your dog can succeed:

• Inside the house

• In the garden

• On a long line outdoors

Practising successful recalls builds confidence and understanding far more effectively than calling your dog when distractions are too high.

Be More Interesting Than the Distractions

Dogs are easily distracted by smells, movement, and other dogs. You can increase your chances by:

• Using an upbeat, happy tone

• Moving away from your dog as you call

• Adding energy, clapping, or crouching down

Engagement often matters more than volume.

Never Punish a Recall

Even if your dog takes their time coming back, always reward them when they do.

Punishing a recall teaches your dog that coming back is risky — which makes future recalls weaker, not stronger. Praise, reward, and reinforce the behaviour you want to see again.

Recall is built through trust and motivation, not force. By keeping recall positive and rewarding, you make it far more likely your dog will choose to come back to you — every time. 🤝