Mastering Dog & Puppy Recall
Teaching your dog to come back to you when called is more commonly known as recall and is one of the most important commands to teach your dog. In a dangerous or unknown scenario, this aspect of dog obedience has the potential to save your dog’s life.
Our head dog trainer, Daniel shares his tips for bulletproof recall;
Invest in the right equipment
When training the recall, if you say “Fido, come”. And Fido doesn’t come, Fido has just learned that come means not to come. So you need to be able to protect your recall command until you are sure your dog will come back, invest in a good quality 10-meter long line and a treat pouch. Both of these tools can be used to bring your dog back to you when they wont do so voluntarily. For more tips on getting your dog to listen, check out our post ‘why wont my dog listen to me.’
Set up your reward systems
In order for your dog to come back, they need to know that you have cool things (high-value treats and toys), these are our reward systems. Ideally, we want a dog who is highly food motivated and highly toy driven.
Engagement
In order for your dog to want to come back to you when he is sniffing wonderful smells or playing with other dogs, they have to see you as the source of fun and want to be with you.
If your dog doesn’t think that your the bee’s knees then recall is going to be pretty difficult. To help with this, check out our quick tips on when your dog wont listen.
Repetition
It takes many repetitions, depending on the relationship with your dog it may take a few hundred or a few thousand repetitions
to get that bulletproof recall. Hang in there, your dog will thank you for it.
Patience
Rome wasn’t built in a day, mastering this very important tool will take time, don’t rush the steps with your dog and be sure to have lots of fun in the process.
For more help mastering recall or any other aspect of dog training, check out our custom training packages here and book a private dog training session online today.
Looking for more training tips?
Puppy Training Werribee: What Every New Dog Owner Should Know
Puppy Training Werribee: What Every New Dog Owner Should KnowKey Overview Starting puppy training early leads to better long-term behaviour and easier day-to-day life. In-home puppy training in Werribee focuses on real-life situations, not controlled class...
What We See Inside Werribee Homes: Common Causes of Reactive Dog Behaviour (and What Actually Helps)
What We See Inside Werribee Homes: Common Causes of Reactive Dog BehaviourWhat causes reactive dog behaviour in Werribee homes? Reactive dog behaviour often starts with real-world triggers that don’t show up in group classes — such as overstimulation on local walks...
Can You Bring a Dog on a Train in Melbourne? (2026 Rules + Muzzle Law)
Can You Bring a Dog on a Train in Melbourne? Yes — dogs are allowed on Melbourne trains, but only under strict rules (including lead and muzzle requirements). While dogs are technically allowed on Melbourne trains, many owners quickly realise the real challenge...
Aggressive dogs – How to identify & what to do?
An aggressive dog can take many forms. Throughout my time as a dog trainer, I have seen the impact an aggressive dog can have on families especially when children are involved. I would urge you to take dog aggression seriously but rest assured with proper management,...
Frozen Kong – The Ultimate Summer Treat for Your Dog
Last updated: 18/01/25Frozen Kong, the ultimate summer dog treat I have talked endlessly about the humble Kong and its versatility as a training exercise, treat dispenser, and enrichment tool. This summer, we will revisit the Kong's benefits by stuffing it full of our...
Should Your Dog Sleep in Your Bed? Pros, Cons & Dog Trainer Advice (2026)
Last updated: 18/01/25Key Takeaways ✅ Sleeping with your dog is not automatically bad ⚠️ Some dogs develop over-dependence or boundary issues 🛏️ Calm, well-trained dogs usually cope best 🏡 Training and structure matter more than the sleeping location itselfI recently...