If you have ever been to a dog park you may have very likely witnessed the following scenario: An owner calls his dog because it is time to go and the dog totally ignores the owner and runs the other way. You might think to yourself that either the dog has a listening problem or the dog just could care less.
Very likely the dog could care less. The reason of this behavior is that the owner has not invested enough time and effort into training the dog to respond to a good recall.
Teaching your dog to respond properly to a recall is a vital command. You can avoid teaching your dog to roll over or give a paw but please make sure your dog learns the recall command. The reason why the recall command is so important is that one day it may potentially keep your dog out of harm’s way. Many incidents could have been avoided if the dog obeyed and run toward the owner.
For example, you are at a dog park and your dog runs away and heads toward a busy street or your dog is in the woods and starts chasing a potentially rabid animal. In these cases, a recall can make the difference between safety and hazard.
Teaching a good recall is therefore indispensable and should not take too much of your time. The real secret is to turn the recall training into something special and fun. Here are some steps:
Never Scold The Dog That Comes To You.
Let’s say you call the dog, he doesn’t come at first and then he finally does. You are mad at him for not listening the first time, so you scold him upon coming to you. This basically is the easiest way to teach your dog not to come anymore.
Another common instance is when you catch your dog doing something bad and you call him to you in an upset tone of voice. The dog reads your anger or frustration and feels afraid to come to you. These are examples of the easiest ways to adversely affect your recall, in some cases even permanently. If you do not want this to happen, keep your recalls always on a positive note, which takes us to the other second rule.
Always Praise For a Successful Recall
Praise your dog lavishly, offer a favorite treat, or give a nice tummy rub, just anything your dog loves. Always call your dog with an enthusiastic voice, promising good things to come.
If possible let him out and call him inside and let him find his food bowl already on the floor for him. You will easily end up this way with a puppy or dog that will always keep his ears erect in the hope you will call him to you.
A good recall, therefore, can be a life saver. It may take some time and effort but it is definitely worth it. You never know what may happen and you may need your dog by your side immediately. Have your dog trained to obey promptly to your recall, it will be a great training lesson, an opportunity to praise your dog and best of all, you will look good when you call your dog at the park!
Disclaimer: All remedies suggested are not to be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is sick please refer to your veterinarian for a hands on examination. If your pet is exhibiting behavior problems please refer to a professional pet behaviorist.