Overcoming Recall Challenges:

Turning “Catch Me If You Can” Into Reliable Recall

Recall is one of the most important skills you can teach your dog, but it can also be one of the most frustrating. Every dog owner knows that sinking feeling when you call your dog, and instead of coming back, they’re off chasing a squirrel, sniffing something interesting, or just ignoring you. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. After all, who hasn’t seen the infamous YouTube video of Fenton the Labrador chasing deer in Richmond Park, with his frantic owner yelling in the background? Moments like these are a perfect example of how recall can go hilariously, but frustratingly, wrong. Let’s dive into some of the common challenges with recall and how to overcome them.

Why Recall Can Be Difficult

Dogs are opportunists. They’re wired to explore their surroundings, follow their instincts, and often prioritise their interests over ours. Recall struggles usually come down to one or more of these issues:

1. Environment: Your dog might find something more rewarding than returning to you, like playing with other dogs, chasing wildlife, or indulging in a good sniff.
2. Inconsistent Training: If recall isn’t practised regularly or in different settings, your dog may not fully grasp what’s expected.
3. Punishment for Returning: If coming back means something negative, like being put on the lead and leaving the park, your dog may hesitate.
4. Lack of Value in You: If you’re not seen as fun or rewarding, your dog may opt for more exciting distractions.

The Building Blocks of Reliable Recall

1. Start Small and Build Confidence

Begin in a quiet, distraction-free environment. Use a long line if needed and make recall a game. Call your dog’s name with enthusiasm, use a cue like “Come!” or “Here!”, and reward them generously when they respond. This reward can be anything they love—treats, a favourite toy, or a quick game of tug.

2. Make It Worth Their While

Dogs repeat behaviours that feel good. Be the most exciting thing in your dog’s world when you call them. This might mean acting silly, using a happy tone, or offering special rewards like chicken, cheese, or a squeaky toy. I know that this might be hard, after all, what will everyone think? But just imagine how much nicer it is to have your dog fully engaging in you rather than the environment. Surely looking like a bit of a plonker is a small price for that.

3. Avoid Negative Associations

Don’t let your recall cue become a signal for something unpleasant, like the end of playtime. Instead, call your dog back frequently, reward them, and then send them back to their fun. This way, they’ll associate coming back with good things.

4. Gradually Increase Distractions

Once your dog reliably responds in quiet settings, gradually add distractions. Start small, like calling them away from a sniff, and work up to more challenging scenarios. A long line is helpful for safety during this phase.

5. Practice, Practice, Practice

Do exciting things like special walks or play games and tricks whilst your dog is also on the lead and not just off. Your dog should be excited to go back on the lead. Recall is a skill that needs regular reinforcement. Make it part of your walks, playtime, and even training at home. Consistency is key.

Adding “None of Your Business” Training

A great way to support reliable recall is with “None of Your Business” training. This technique teaches your dog to disengage from distractions and refocus on you. It’s especially useful for dogs who get fixated on other dogs, wildlife, or tempting smells.

How It Works

1. Mark and Reward Disengagement: When your dog notices a distraction but doesn’t fixate, mark the behaviour (e.g., with a clicker or a verbal marker like “Yes!”) and reward them for disengaging.
2. Create Positive Associations: Over time, your dog learns that turning their attention away from distractions and back to you leads to good things, like treats or a fun game.
3. Pair With a Cue: Once your dog is consistently disengaging, add a cue like “Nice” or “None of Your Business” to reinforce the behaviour.

Why It’s Effective

This builds your dog’s impulse control and makes them less likely to ignore you when distractions arise. It complements recall training by teaching your dog that not everything needs investigating.

I remember walking my four dogs in Thetford Forest. They were a good 40 metres ahead of me when a huge stag suddenly jumped out less than 10 metres in front of them onto the path before bouncing back into the forest. All of my dogs prepared to chase, and I thought, “Oh no!” But I called them back, and to my relief, they all instantly turned and raced back to me. We had a food party right there to celebrate! Regardless of your recall reliability, always carry some treats so you can reward exceptional moments like this.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Dog Ignores Recall Cue: If your dog isn’t responding, reassess your rewards. Are they exciting enough? Is the environment too distracting? Go back to basics and rebuild.
• Dog Runs Off After Coming Back: Attach rewards to staying close. Engage them with a game or offer treats for hanging out near you, discouraging the “touch and go” behaviour.
• Overuse of the Recall Cue: Avoid repeating your cue if your dog doesn’t respond. Instead, reset and make the next recall rewarding.

Fun Recall Games to Try

1. Hide and Seek: Hide in your home or garden and call your dog. Celebrate enthusiastically when they find you.
2. Chase Me!: Run away from your dog while calling them. Most dogs love to chase, turning recall into a fun activity.
3. Round Robin: With friends or family, take turns calling your dog and rewarding them when they respond.

A Fresh Perspective on Recall

Reliable recall gives your dog more freedom while keeping them safe. By tackling common challenges, building a strong foundation, and making recall fun and rewarding, you’ll create a dog who’s excited to come back every time you call. It takes patience and practice, but the payoff is well worth it—for both of you!