Week 3: Final Recall

In this step, you will need the help of another person. This should be done in a safe area, and the dog should be on a long line of about 10-15 feet. The purpose of the long line is that if Fido starts to wander, it is easier to reclaim him. So now your helper will hold your dog and you will show Fido what good treats you have in your hand. Then turn around and walk away. When you get 10 or so feet away, turn and say “Fido, here!” Do offer praise as he is running toward you and then reward as usual for 10 seconds when he gets there. Make a big deal out of this! Repeat this three times in a session, and do three separate training sessions a day.

Here’s a little exercise to adds variation and spice to the mix: Once you know that Fido will come running, call him and then turn and run away from him. This will really excite him as the prey drive kicks in and here comes Fido!

The videos below show examples of using the recall.

I hope you found this article useful, and if you have any questions, feel free to email me at cogoldens@gmail.com

Making training fun!

Chris O’Connor

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