12.08.2018

Dog Training, The Recall/Come - When your dog has no ears ;-)

Does your dog have no ears when it comes to calling them back to you?
Here are some tips on the ‘Recall/Come’ -
With the recall, it comes down to your dog recognizing you as their leader (now I need to always remind readers that leadership and dominance are different), with all the subtle methods undertaken, in and outside of the home. This brings about a respect for the command being given by a higher ranking pack member.
With this then, you should be dictating where you are going etc on the walk.
However, when it comes to calling your dog back to you, makesure you are bending down (this is really the only time a submissive type posture takes place and it is because in this stance you are less threatening). Speak in a higher pitch and get excited! Again, you are non threatening and oh so appealing but regain your height once your dog comes up to you.
Then say a simple “Good Dog”.
You can reward intermittently with praise or food when your dog comes up to you on non-called occasions so you are positive to be close to and you show you have control of a food resource.
If your dog is not responding, walk away confidently to a safe distance, WITHOUT LOOKING BACK (often hiding behind a tree works wonders!).
The pull of the pack is usually too strong and you should hear panting coming up behind you ;-)
Also practice the ‘Come’ within the home and garden environment.
At the park you could use a longer rope/lead and work on extending the distance of the ‘Come’ while on these. When your dog is responding well you can progress to off-rope/lead recall, Selina McIntyre, Dog Behavioural Consultant, Dogs Best Friend.