6 Recall Training Tips: How to Teach a Dog to Come When Called (Even If They’re Stubborn)

Recall Training: Ensuring Your Dog Comes When Called at the Beach or Park (Or Anywhere)!

Teaching your dog to come when called isn't just a neat party trick—it's a crucial skill that could one day save their life. I've spent countless hours in parks watching owners desperately calling their dogs while the pups joyfully ignore them. Sound familiar? Don't worry, you're not alone in this struggle. Let's dive right in, here's our best techniques of how to teach a dog to recall!

6 Tips for How to Teach a Dog to Recall

As someone who's trained multiple dogs (including one particularly stubborn Beagle who thought recall was optional), I can tell you that a reliable recall is achievable with the right approach. Let's dive into six proven tips that will transform your "selective hearing" pup into a dog who comes running at the sound of your voice.

1. Start in a Distraction-Free Environment

Begin where success is guaranteed

The foundation of solid recall training starts in a controlled environment. Your living room or fenced backyard makes an ideal starting point—somewhere your dog feels comfortable and distractions are minimal.

I always tell my clients to think of recall training like learning to swim. You wouldn't throw someone into the deep end on day one, right? Similarly, expecting your dog to come when called at a busy dog park before mastering the basics at home is setting them up for failure.

Start by calling your dog from just a few feet away. Use an enthusiastic, high-pitched voice that signals "something awesome is happening!" When they come to you, celebrate like they've just won the doggy lottery—treats, praise, and maybe a quick game with their favorite toy.

2. Use High-Value Rewards

Not all treats are created equal

When teaching recall, regular kibble just won't cut it. You need to break out the good stuff—the canine equivalent of filet mignon. Think small pieces of chicken, cheese, or freeze-dried liver.

The science backs this up too. According to a study in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior, dogs respond more consistently to commands when rewarded with high-value treats compared to verbal praise alone.

Remember to vary your rewards to keep your dog guessing. Sometimes offer a jackpot (several treats in succession), sometimes a favorite toy, and sometimes lavish praise and petting. This unpredictability makes coming to you an exciting gamble your dog will want to take.

3. Create a Strong Recall Cue

Choose your words (and tone) wisely

The word you use for recall matters less than how you use it. Whether you choose "come," "here," or "peanut butter," consistency is key.

If your dog already associates "come" with negative experiences (like ending fun at the park or getting a bath), start fresh with a new word. This gives you a clean slate without the baggage.

When using your recall cue:

• Say it once (repeating it teaches your dog to ignore the first few calls)
• Use a happy, upbeat tone
• Avoid using it when you can't enforce it
• Never use it for something your dog might perceive as negative

I've found that adding a hand signal—like tapping your chest or opening your arms wide—can strengthen the cue, especially for visual learners or in noisy environments.

4. Practice the "Recall Game"

Make coming to you the highlight of your dog's day

Turn recall into a fun game rather than a command. The "recall game" is simple but effective:

1. Wait until your dog is slightly distracted (but not overly engaged)
2. Call them enthusiastically using your recall cue
3. When they come, reward generously
4. Release them to go play again with "go play" or "free"
5. Repeat randomly throughout your time together

This game teaches your dog that coming when called doesn't always mean the fun ends—sometimes it's just a brief interruption followed by more freedom. We play this with our dog several times during each walk, and it's dramatically improved her recall reliability.

5. Gradually Increase Distractions

Level up the challenge systematically

Once your dog reliably comes when called in your home, it's time to gradually increase the difficulty. Think of this as levels in a video game:

• Level 1: Quiet indoor environment
• Level 2: Fenced backyard
• Level 3:Quiet street on leash
• Level 4: Empty park on a long line
• Level 5: Park with few distractions on long line
• Level 6: Park with many distractions on long line
• Level 7: Off-leash in secure areas

The key word here is gradually. Many owners rush this process and then wonder why their dog's recall falls apart. Sometimes you’ll find yourself spending three full weeks on level 4 before moving to level 5 –but that patience will pay off!

For safety, use a long training line (15-30 feet) during levels 4-6. This gives your dog freedom while ensuring you maintain control if they decide to ignore you.

6. Address Recall Failures Constructively

What to do when your dog ignores you

Even with perfect training, there will be times when your dog doesn't come when called. How you handle these moments is crucial.

Never:

• Chase your dog (turns it into a game)
• Punish them when they eventually come to you
• Yell or show frustration

Instead:

• Move in the opposite direction (often triggers their instinct to follow)
• Crouch down and act excited
• Use a squeaky toy or make unusual sounds to pique their curiosity
• If all else fails and it's safe to do so, walk away and hide briefly

One technique that's saved me countless times is the "emergency recall." This is a separate cue (I use "jackpot!") that you train with extremely high-value rewards (like small pieces of steak or chicken) and never use for anything except genuine emergencies or practice sessions that always end with the amazing reward.

Teaching Recall to a Stubborn Dog

Some dogs are naturally more independent or distraction-prone. If you're dealing with a stubborn dog, these additional tips can help:

• Use a drag line: A lightweight leash that your dog drags around gives you a way to gently guide them to you if they ignore your recall.
• Practice more frequently: Stubborn dogs often need more repetitions to build the habit.
• Find their currency: Every dog has something they value above all else—discover what truly motivates yours.
• Keep sessions short: Multiple 3-minute sessions throughout the day are more effective than one long training session.
• Emergency Recall: Lifesaving Cue! Train a separate, ultra-high-reward recall cue (like “jackpot!”) Just for emergencies! Use it only when you absolutely need your dog to come—then deliver the best reward of their life!
  • We use this with our dogs in situations like:
    • Running toward a busy street
    • Getting too close to wildlife
    • Slipping off leash at the beach
    • It’s like having a “recall panic button” in your pocket.

Recall Training Isn’t a Weekend Project

It's an ongoing process that requires consistency and patience. The good news? The investment pays enormous dividends in safety, freedom, and the bond you share with your dog.

Remember that even well-trained dogs can have off days. Always prioritize safety by using leashes in unsecured areas and continuing to practice regularly throughout your dog's life.

With these six tips and a positive attitude, you'll be well on your way to having a dog who comes running when you call—even when the world is full of fascinating distractions. Remember how to teach a dog to recall is a consistency game!

And if you’re wanting our help, we would love to connect! Check out our dog training services, here!