5 Ways You Might Be Sabotaging Your Dog’s Recall

Recall is possibly the most crucial command you can teach your dog, as it can literally be a lifesaver. Yet, it is also one of the most challenging commands to perfect with consistent reliability. If your dog chases another animal or dashes towards a road, being able to call them back promptly is vital for their safety. But because recall carries such importance, it is easy to make mistakes that unintentionally undermine your dog’s responsiveness, often without realising it.

This guide highlights five common ways dog owners inadvertently sabotage their dog’s recall and offers practical tips to improve your training approach and strengthen your bond.

1. Too Much Repetition Dilutes the Recall Command

Recall should be a clear, short, and distinctive command, signalling your dog to come back immediately. Repeating the command multiple times because your dog delays response can teach them that only the last call matters, or that they can wait until you finish repeating before obeying. For example, if you say "Come, come, come!" your dog might think the first “come” doesn’t count.
Instead, use a single firm command and reward an immediate response to reinforce that the first call is the only one needed.

2. Inconsistent Usage Within the Household

Many households have more than one person walking and training the dog. If your dog responds reliably to recall from one person but not another, this usually indicates inconsistent command use. The recall word, tone, and body language should be uniform across all family members.
Consistency helps the dog clearly recognise and understand the command, increasing their likelihood of quick compliance. Establish a shared recall method everyone will use to avoid confusing your dog.

3. Lack of Reward Undermines Motivation

Recall is often used by owners to signal the end of fun time, such as when a dog off lead has to stop running around and return for the walk to continue or end. This means the dog associates recall with losing reward and play. Understandably, this reduces their enthusiasm to come back promptly.
A good practice is to make recall itself rewarding: occasionally call your dog back during play and then let them return to the fun, or reward them with treats, praise, or a favourite toy every time they respond to recall. This keeps recall positive and motivates your dog to respond reliably.

4. Negative Consequences Hurt Recall Reliability

If you’re worried your dog won’t come back or could get into trouble off the lead, you might avoid recalling altogether or only call them when stressed. When your dog does eventually come, reacting with scolding or tension can teach them that recall means punishment or unpleasant outcomes.
This can create avoidance behaviour, where your dog selectively 'ignores' you. Work on building trust by first training recall in safe, controlled environments with positive reinforcement and using long lines to manage risk until your dog improves.

5. Distractions Make Your Dog Less Interested in Coming Back

The outdoors offers many exciting distractions for dogs, making it hard for them to shift attention back to you. While you cannot remove all distractions, you can become more engaging and interesting to your dog.
Incorporate games, toys, or treats during walks to make coming when called more rewarding than distractions. Also, keeping your dog mentally and physically stimulated generally reduces the pull of external distractions. A happy, engaged dog is more likely to respond reliably to recall.

By avoiding these common pitfalls and focusing on consistent, positive, and clear recall training, you can develop a reliable command your dog will gladly follow. Remember, patience and kindness go a long way, and recall should be a joyful interaction that benefits both of you.