Learn Your Dog a Recall Command, Five Essential Steps
It's common for people to call their dogs by their names, but the name is simply a way to capture the dog's attention and isn't linked to any specific action. To effectively teach your dog to respond to a recall command, you need to break it down into five distinct steps, which later form a sequence of behaviors. The recall consists of five different components.
When you call your dog, the goal is for it to:
Quickly turn its attention towards you.
Rapidly run to you.
Sit close to you.
Allow you to grasp the collar/harness.
Wait patiently for your next command or release cue.
Training a Recall Command Through Behavior Chains.
To efficiently train your dog in recall, start by practicing each individual step separately. Then, combine steps 3 to 5, and finally, add step 2. Begin the training when your dog is near you. The distance between you and your dog gradually increases, and this happens when the dog understands the meaning of the command and its completion.
Focus on Fundamental Training.
Before progressing to recall training, it's crucial to reinforce obedience and communication with your dog. These basic skills are fundamental for recall and can initially be practiced indoors. Use a long leash and hide treats and toys in your pockets. Create a sort of treasure hunt! Dogs naturally love searching for things, so when your dog follows you, praise it and bend down to "discover" a treat on the ground. Express surprise and joy at your find and invite your dog to take the reward. Continue your walk, and when your dog follows, repeat the process. This time, bring out a toy your dog likes and pretend to find it on the ground. Play with your dog for a while before moving on. Gradually increase the distance between you and your dog, and when it follows, sit down. Praise and reward it for staying close. Practice this, and when you feel ready, perform the same training outdoors.
//Mirabelle Wesden
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