If the dog doesn't come back to the owner when called, it can quickly become embarrassing - in the worst case, even dangerous. We have the best tips from professional dog trainers on how to train your dog to come back on command. The recall is one of the most important commands for both the four-legged friend and the owner; those who have not trained this command are often referred to as "dog idiots" - that ends now!
Choose a clear signal
Unclear signals can lead to a dog not responding to commands. A clear and consistent signal is crucial for the recall so that the dog can make a connection between the heard signal and the desired action. Many owners use the word "come" as a command, but it may not be clear enough in some situations, as it is also used in playful or inviting ways or in conjunction with another signal. Therefore, dog whistles are popular among many dog owners as signalers, as the same whistle can be used every time, and the dog clearly associates it with an action. If your dog does not respond to commands, you should first choose an exclusive signal.
Choose body language that matches the recall
Your body language is key to showing your dog what you want! For example, if you crouch down to a puppy and invite him, that's great! Or, if you run away while calling your dog, he will definitely want to join you. However, if the dog is distracted and not listening, call him and run away from him. But be careful: if you approach him and reach for his collar, it can be frightening for him and prevent him from coming to you.
Choose an enticing reward
The tastier the reward, the faster your dog will come to you. Find out what your four-legged friend likes best and use it as a reward when he listens to you. But be careful: don't use it too often, because if he only gets it when he listens to you, it becomes even more valuable for him to come to you. And timing is everything! Hold the reward in your hand as he approaches you. If you also help him with the collar while he is eating, even holding on will become a positive experience.
Make clear statements
Clear statements are key to getting your dog to listen to you. After all, you are the boss and tell him what to do, not the other way around. Therefore, the recall signal must be unmistakable and clear. When calling, you must also sound clear and determined. No sugary sweet calls here, please! A clear signal also means that you quickly move away when he looks at you but does not come immediately. If you keep calling and waiting, you give him the wrong signal and adapt to him. This only gives him feedback that you are still there.
Practice is the key to success
Practice makes perfect - or better said, a dog that listens to you. But don't worry, every beginning is hard. In practice, it looks like this: Your dog is running around on the lawn, and you call him, following all the previous tips. And what happens? Nothing. But don't panic! The dog first needs to learn to associate the signal with a behavior. This doesn't happen overnight, so start at home and practice in small steps. Ask someone to hold your dog, walk a few steps away, show him the reward, and let him go. Your dog will run to you while you call him with the signal. When he arrives, give him the reward and take him by the collar. Practice this in different places in the house, and eventually, you can do without help and call him when he is lying somewhere. When that works well, you can try it outside, and step by step, your dog learns to associate the signal with the behavior "I run quickly to my person."
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