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Hello hello, Pet Parents! Carlos here. One of the most common fears I hear from pet parents is the worry that their dog might run away or not return when called. This anxiety is completely understandable—no one wants to imagine their pup wandering into danger or getting lost. The good news? With the right training and techniques, you can teach your dog a rock-solid recall that gives you both freedom and peace of mind. Let’s get started!
1. Why Dogs Run Off or Ignore Recall
Dogs don’t disobey recall commands to be stubborn or naughty. They’re usually driven by:
Curiosity: “That smell is so interesting!”
Instinct: “There’s a squirrel! I must chase it!”
Lack of Training: They don’t fully understand what “come” means.
Better Rewards Elsewhere: If the environment is more exciting than you, they’re less likely to return.
Building a reliable recall isn’t just about teaching your dog to come back—it’s about making you the most rewarding and exciting thing in their world.
2. Steps to Build a Rock-Solid Recall
1. Start Indoors or in a Controlled Environment
Begin in a quiet space with minimal distractions. Use a high-value treat or toy and call your dog’s name followed by a cheerful “Come!” Reward them immediately when they reach you.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement
Always make coming to you the best decision your dog can make. Use treats, toys, or praise to reward them every time they return. Never punish your dog for coming late or reluctantly—it will discourage them from coming back in the future.
3. Gradually Add Distractions
Once your dog is reliable indoors, practice outdoors in a fenced yard or on a long leash. Gradually introduce distractions like toys, other people, or dogs, rewarding them for staying focused on you.
4. Practice the “Recall Game”
Make recall training fun by turning it into a game:
Take turns calling your dog with family members in different rooms or areas.
Reward them each time they come to the person who called them.
5. Use a High-Value Recall Word
Reserve a special word (like “Here!” or “Come Now!”) for emergency recalls. This word should only be used in high-stakes situations and must always be followed by a huge reward.
6. Avoid Overusing Recall
Don’t call your dog to end activities they enjoy, like playtime or walks. Instead, sometimes call them, reward them, and let them return to their fun. This keeps the recall cue positive.
3. Preventing Your Dog from Running Away
Supervise Off-Leash Time
Only allow your dog off-leash in safe, enclosed spaces or when they have a reliable recall.
Provide Mental and Physical Stimulation
A bored dog is more likely to roam. Regular exercise, training, and enrichment reduce the urge to explore.
Ensure Proper Identification
Always keep your dog’s collar with ID tags and microchip information updated, just in case they wander off.
4. Common Challenges (and How to Overcome Them)
“My Dog Ignores Me Outside!”
Solution: Increase the value of your rewards and practice in gradually more distracting environments.
“My Dog Runs Away When I Call Them.”
Solution: Avoid chasing them—it turns it into a game. Instead, try running the opposite direction or crouching with an exciting toy or treat to lure them back.
“They Only Come When They Feel Like It.”
Solution: Consistency is key. Always reward recall and make it worth their while, even for the small wins.
5. When to Seek Help
If recall training feels overwhelming or your dog has already developed a habit of running away, a force-free trainer or behavior consultant can help create a tailored training plan to build success.
Final Thoughts
Pet parents, teaching a reliable recall takes time and patience, but the reward is priceless: the confidence that your dog will come back every time. By using positive reinforcement and making recall fun, you’re not just teaching a skill—you’re building trust and strengthening your bond with your pup.
Need help with recall training? Reach out—I’m here to guide you and your dog to success!
Carlos F. Morales - CDBC | CPDT-KA
Carlos is head trainer at Canine High School in Long Beach CA, a force-free Puppy School and Dog School. He is responsible for creating the School's Dog Training System, Curriculum and Philosophy. In addition to educating his canine students and their human parents, he runs a teaching school that offers apprenticeship and internship programs for aspiring professional dog trainers. He is a Certified Mentor Trainer for several dog training schools and holds certifications with the IAABC and the CCPDT. He lives in Long Beach CA in a little house by the beach with his human, his three dogs GoGo, Kiba, Choji and a sassy cat, Habibti.
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