Getting your dog to get to you...PRONTO!! 4 Qualities of a great recall!

I'm going to keep this short and sweet.  Coming when called, we all want it......but are we willing to work a little for it.

#1 RECALL RULES

Say the dogs name once (that gets them to turn their head)

Say the recall word once (that tells them why you said their name in the first place)

Add in a visual helper (bend over, use welcoming arms motioning towards your body, walk backward)

Add an auditory helper (smooching, clicking, clapping that help the dog move forward toward you)

#2 REWARD WHAT YOU WANT

When your dog arrives at your feet you better have a cookie party!!  Rapid fire treats into your dogs mouth while telling them how amazing they are!!  Don't worry about the sit yet.....your dog came to you....GIVE HIM A PAYCHECK!

#3 STOP CALLING OFF OF FUN STUFF

I swear it must be human nature that as soon as a dog gets interested in a smell, a sight or something they find fun....we think that is the best time to call them!  Way to be the fun police!!  Instead, set up scenarios where you are prepared and focused on a perfectly timed recall and wild success. 

#4 GRADUALLY INCREASE THE DIFFICULTY

Getting a dog to call off of chasing a bunny is like the Olympics of dog training.  Have you put in Olympic level work with your dog?  It's all about setting up opportunities for your dog to succeed while simultaneously increasing the difficulty along the way.  If you haven't put in the work then it isn't fair to fault your dog for not understanding the expectations.

LASTLY.....NEVER, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, EVER, SHOULD YOU CALL YOUR DOG TO PUNISH THEM!!  Punishment is ineffective anyway but for coming when called, it is literally the worst!!  They learn to fear you and avoid you rather than thinking you are the "Giver of all that is good!"