Recall Games

"A dog that does not come when he is called is not a trained dog"


While working on the all important recall, use these games for practice.
They are fun for you and your dog
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#1. Inside, with dog on lead, two handlers sit on the floor facing each other about 6' apart
One handler holds the dog; the other holds the end of the lead.
The handler with the lead calls the dog, in a happy and pleasant voice. If necessary, the handler pulls the dog to him, praises and (optional) treats. The dog is then turned around to face the other handler, who repeats the procedure. Goal: repeat until dog no longer needs to be pulled by the lead. At that point, increase distance, and repeat until dog is coming willingly.

#2. Same activity as above, without the lead. Repeat until handlers are 12' apart. If the dog does not come immediately, put lead back on and repeat #1. Goal: dog comes repeatedly without lead.

#3. Dog off lead. One handler goes out of sight (around a corner into another room). Call the dog. Praise and reward. If the dog does not come to the handler, go to the dog and take him by the collar. Pull him to where the handler called him, sit, praise (or treat). Second handler calls dog back. Repeat above procedure. Goal: Repeat until dog doesn't hesitate in finding handlers.

#4. Repeat the sequence above, hiding in different rooms in the house. If the dog needs help, get him and take him by the collar and guide him to where he was called. Praise and reward the dog every time he finds a handler. Goal: Repeat until the dog finds handlers every time.

#5. Repeat step #1, out in the yard (in a secure area).

#6. Repeat step #2, out in the yard (in a secure area). Go back to the lead if the dog is distracted. Praise and pet into sit with treat. Repeat until dog comes every time, even with distractions.

#7. Repeat step #3 outside (in a secure area). Goal: Repeat until dog finds handler every time.

#8. Repeat step #4 outside (in a secure area), until the dog finds you easily.  This can now be done with one handler.  Take the dog away from home into a secure park, woods, etc. Practice hiding from him any time he gets more than 20' away. Remember: always praise and/or reward him when he finds you.

#9. Continue your practice in different places with different distractions.

#10. Invent recall games of your own! Be sure the dog is rewarded for success, and corrected if he fails to come promptly!

"Fido, Come!"
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