From someone who has walked over 30,000 dogs off lead in public😇
Training your dog to come back when called doesn’t have to be stressful or frustrating. With the right approach — a mix of patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement — recall training can become one of the most rewarding parts of your relationship together.
Whether you’re working with a new puppy or an adult dog who’s forgotten what “come” means, these tips will help you build confidence, connection, and reliability… and make your off-lead adventures a whole lot more enjoyable.
1️⃣ Condition Your Recall Cue Until It’s Second Nature
Before you even think about dropping the lead, your recall cue (that special word or whistle) needs to be so well-conditioned that your dog responds without thinking.
You want it to feel like a reflex — something your dog does automatically because it’s been so rewarding in the past.
That means thousands of happy, positive repetitions. Play recall games at home, reward generously, and make it fun. Most people stop conditioning too early, but this is where all your future success comes from.
💡 Related reading: 9 Ways to Turn You & Your Dog into Super Learners
2️⃣ Don’t Let Go of the Long Line Too Early
The long line is your best friend in recall training. It keeps your dog safe while giving them a sense of freedom, and it gives you the chance to reward successful recalls without risking a “zoomies” moment.
The biggest mistake I see is people dropping the line too soon — usually because things are going well! Keep it on until your dog’s recall feels reliable and predictable.
It’s not about holding them back; it’s about setting them up to succeed.
3️⃣ Start Small and Build Distance Gradually
Dreaming of that picture-perfect recall across a wide-open field? It all starts close to home — literally.
I like to begin with recall games within just 6–10 feet of me. Reward every time your dog turns and runs back towards you. Once they’re flying to you with excitement at that distance, then start to build space.
Think of it as climbing a ladder: you can’t skip the lower rungs and expect to stay balanced at the top!
4️⃣ Use the 25% Rule
Here’s a simple guideline I use with all my clients: when your recall success rate is 75% or higher, you’re ready to start testing off lead.
If that rate dips below 75%, gather up the long line again and return to an easier stage. Training progress isn’t about perfection; it’s about building confidence — for both of you.
5️⃣ Practice in Different Environments
Your dog’s recall might be flawless in the garden but vanish the second you step into a park full of smells and squirrels — and that’s completely normal!
Dogs don’t generalise the way we do. So when you change locations, lower the difficulty slightly, make it fun again, and rebuild success in that new setting.
The more variety you build in early, the stronger (and more reliable) your recall will become over time.
6️⃣ Find a “Recall Bestie”
This is one of my favourite tips! Dogs learn a lot simply by watching other dogs.
If you know a dog with brilliant recall, plan some joint walks. When you call both dogs, your friend’s dog will dash straight back — and yours will often follow.
It’s a brilliant example of social learning in action and one of the easiest ways to get more recall “reps” without pressure.
💭 Final Thoughts
Building a great recall isn’t about being the loudest person in the park — it’s about creating such a strong, positive association that your dog wants to come back to you.
Take your time, keep sessions short and upbeat, and celebrate every small success. Each recall builds trust, strengthens communication, and makes your bond even stronger.
📣 Ready to Take It Further?
🐕 Join me this Wednesday 8th October for my Live Webinar Via Zoom “Restart Recall” at 7pm
We’ll cover practical exercises, common pitfalls, and live demonstrations that you can use straight away with your dog.
🎉 And don’t forget — only 14 days left to book your place on my 5-Week Restart Recall Course here in Plymouth! It’s the perfect opportunity to reset, rebuild, and strengthen your dog’s recall in a fun, supportive environment. Starting Sunday 19th October at 7pm (week one online via zoom – 90 minute webinar) then subsequent 4 weeks will be in person at a secure field in Bickleigh Plymouth at 3pm
Love from your friendly neighbourhood dog trainer – Sara
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