How to Turn AWFUL Recall into Perfect Recall Training with Your Dog – EXTREME CASE

Welcome back to LearnLanes.com! Today, we are joined by the one and only LearnLanes for another session. In the last blog post featuring LearnLanes, you saw us completely transforming how he engages with his owners on a lead. From a disastrous scenario where his owner was being dragged across the road, to now having him safe and reliable on a lead, all through the positive implementation of a tool like a prong collar. This transformation has completely changed his life.

The Next Big Challenge: Recall

A common trend we’ve noticed is that once a dog stops pulling, the next issue often is recall. You’ve seen me start working on this with Sandy, a Golden Retriever, in a previous blog post, where I used food reward and positive-based recall systems. Now, we face a similar challenge with LearnLanes. His recall command has been overused and ignored too many times, rendering it ineffective. Today, we’ll begin the process of putting recall onto a whistle, ensuring success.

Understanding the Recall Problem

Recall is one of the most important commands a dog can learn. It ensures the dog’s safety and allows for greater freedom during walks and playtime. However, many dog owners struggle with teaching this command effectively. The key lies in understanding why a dog might ignore a recall command. Often, it’s because the command has been repeated without enforcement, leading the dog to believe it’s optional. This is the case with LearnLanes. The “come” command has been said so many times without consequence that it’s lost all meaning for him.

Setting Up for Success

In this session, I have LearnLanes on a training lead, giving him just enough space to work but not too much freedom. We’re using the prong collar again, placed high and tight for effective communication. For those concerned, the prong collar does not hurt him; it’s the only tool that allows us any engagement. The prong collar, when used correctly, mimics the natural corrections dogs give each other through biting. This tool helps in making our commands clearer and more understandable to the dog.

The Challenge with LearnLanes

Unlike more food-driven breeds, LearnLanes, being a guard dog, has zero interest in toys or food, making reliable recall more challenging. We need to use a balanced approach, incorporating the prong collar to teach him that when we ask him to come, he must do so without exception. For dogs like LearnLanes, who have a strong guarding instinct and low food drive, traditional positive reinforcement methods may not be effective. Therefore, we need to find what motivates him most – in this case, physical praise and play.

READ ALSO: How To Teach PERFECT Recall! Stop Your Dog Ignoring You Off Leash!

READ ALSO: Can My Dog Help Fix Another Dog’s Aggression?

The Training Process

We’ll start by using the prong collar to guide him towards us when he hears the recall command. Initially, he’ll get a little pressure on the prong collar to redirect him if he ignores the command. Once he reaches us, we’ll reinforce this with physical praise, which is one of the few things LearnLanes really enjoys. This balanced protocol ensures that ignoring the recall command results in correction, but complying leads to the best rewards. This process requires patience and consistency, as the dog needs to understand the consequences of his actions.

Building Positive Associations

Because LearnLanes lacks food or play drive, physical praise becomes our primary reinforcement. Each time he responds correctly to the recall command, we engage in energetic, physical play. This high-value reward teaches him that coming when called leads to very positive outcomes. By associating the recall command with something he finds incredibly rewarding, we increase the likelihood that he will respond positively in the future.

Practicing Recall

Here’s how we practice recall:

1. Give the Recall Command: Clearly and firmly say the recall command. Make sure your tone is inviting but authoritative.
2. Apply Pressure if Ignored: If he ignores the command, apply a small amount of pressure on the prong collar to redirect him. This pressure is not meant to punish but to guide him back to you.
3. Engage in Physical Praise: When he responds correctly, engage in vigorous physical praise. Show him that coming to you is the best decision he can make.
4. Repeat the Process: Consistency is key. Repeat the process multiple times in different environments to generalize the behavior.

Transitioning to the Whistle

Next, we’ll introduce the whistle. I’ll pair the act of coming towards me with two pips on the whistle. Over time, this association will make the whistle an effective recall signal. Consistent repetitions will solidify this behavior, similar to Pavlovian conditioning. The whistle provides a clear, consistent sound that can be heard over long distances and through distractions.

The Importance of Consistency

Consistency is crucial when training any behavior, especially recall. Dogs thrive on routine and clear expectations. If the rules change frequently or commands are given inconsistently, the dog will become confused and less likely to comply. Make sure everyone in the household uses the same commands and follows the same training protocols to avoid mixed messages.

Using Positive Reinforcement Effectively

Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in dog training. It involves rewarding the dog for desired behaviors, making those behaviors more likely to occur in the future. However, for positive reinforcement to be effective, the reward must be something the dog truly values. In LearnLanes’ case, physical praise and roughhousing are more motivating than food or toys. Tailor the rewards to your dog’s preferences to maximize the effectiveness of the training.

Overcoming Distractions

One of the biggest challenges in recall training is overcoming distractions. Dogs are naturally curious and easily distracted by sights, sounds, and smells. To train a reliable recall, you need to gradually increase the level of distractions during training sessions. Start in a quiet, controlled environment and slowly introduce more distractions as your dog becomes more reliable. This gradual increase helps the dog learn to focus on you even in stimulating environments.

The Role of Body Language

Dogs are highly attuned to body language. Your posture, gestures, and facial expressions all communicate messages to your dog. Use this to your advantage during recall training. Stand tall and confident, use open and inviting gestures, and maintain eye contact to reinforce your commands. Avoid negative body language, such as looming over the dog or using harsh gestures, which can intimidate and confuse the dog.

Understanding Your Dog’s Motivations

Every dog is unique and has different motivations. Understanding what drives your dog is key to successful training. Some dogs are motivated by food, others by toys, and some, like LearnLanes, by physical praise and play. Observe your dog and experiment with different rewards to find what works best. Once you understand your dog’s motivations, you can tailor the training to be more effective and enjoyable for both you and your dog.

The Power of Play

Play is a powerful tool in dog training. It strengthens the bond between you and your dog, provides mental and physical stimulation, and can be used as a reward. For dogs like LearnLanes, who thrive on physical interaction, incorporating play into training sessions makes learning fun and engaging. Use play to reinforce desired behaviors and to build a positive association with training.

Addressing Behavioral Issues

Behavioral issues, such as ignoring recall commands, often stem from a lack of training or inconsistent enforcement. Address these issues by setting clear boundaries, using consistent commands, and providing appropriate corrections and rewards. If your dog has a history of ignoring recall commands, it may take time and patience to retrain this behavior. Stay consistent and positive, and seek professional help if needed.

The Importance of Timing

Timing is critical in dog training. Rewards and corrections must be given immediately after the desired or undesired behavior to be effective. This helps the dog understand the connection between their actions and the consequences. In recall training, praise your dog as soon as they start coming towards you and correct them immediately if they ignore the command. This immediate feedback helps reinforce the behavior more effectively.

Building Trust

Trust is the foundation of any successful dog training program. Your dog needs to trust that you will provide clear guidance, consistent rewards, and fair corrections. Building trust takes time and requires patience, consistency, and positive interactions. Avoid harsh punishments or unpredictable behavior, as these can damage the trust between you and your dog. Focus on positive reinforcement and clear communication to build a strong, trusting relationship.

Advanced Recall Training Techniques

Once your dog has mastered basic recall, you can move on to more advanced techniques. These might include:

• Off-Leash Recall: Practicing recall in a safe, enclosed area without a leash to increase reliability.
• Distance Recall: Gradually increasing the distance between you and your dog during recall training to build long-distance reliability.
• Emergency Recall: Teaching a special recall command for emergency situations where immediate response is critical.

These advanced techniques require a solid foundation of basic recall and should be introduced gradually as your dog becomes more reliable.

Troubleshooting Common Recall Problems

Even with consistent training, you may encounter some common recall problems. Here are a few tips for troubleshooting:

• Dog Ignores the Recall Command: Ensure the command has not been overused or used inconsistently. Use a high-value reward to make the command more enticing.
• Dog Comes Slowly: Increase the excitement and energy in your recall command. Use enthusiastic praise and a motivating reward to encourage faster responses.
• Dog Gets Distracted: Gradually increase the level of distractions during training. Start in a quiet environment and slowly introduce more distractions as your dog becomes more reliable.

The Role of Patience in Training

Training a reliable recall takes time and patience. Dogs learn at their own pace, and it’s important to be patient and understanding throughout the process. Celebrate small successes and progress, and don’t get discouraged by setbacks. Consistent, positive training will eventually lead to a reliable recall, but it requires patience and dedication.

Working with a Professional Trainer

If you’re struggling with recall training or facing significant behavioral issues, consider working with a professional dog trainer. A professional can provide personalized guidance, address specific problems, and help you develop an effective training plan. They can also offer support and encouragement, making the training process more manageable and enjoyable.

Real-Life Applications of Recall Training

A reliable recall is essential for your dog’s safety and your peace of mind. It allows you to enjoy more freedom and flexibility during walks, hikes, and off-leash play. Here are a few real-life applications of recall training:

• Off-Leash Play: Enjoy off-leash play at dog parks or open spaces, knowing your dog will come back when called.
• Outdoor Adventures: Take your dog on hikes, camping trips, or beach outings, confident in their ability to recall in any environment.
• Emergency Situations: Ensure your dog’s safety in emergency situations by having a reliable recall command.

The Journey to Perfect Recall

Training a perfect recall is a journey that requires time, patience, and dedication. Each dog is unique and will progress at their own pace. Stay consistent, use positive reinforcement, and tailor the training to your dog’s motivations. Celebrate the small victories and keep the end goal in mind: a reliable, happy, and well-trained dog that comes when called, no matter the situation.

Conclusion

By finding what drives your dog and putting a barrier to entry in front of that desired outcome, you can effectively train recall. For LearnLanes, this means earning physical play through responding to the whistle. Consistent practice and maintaining a balance between correction and reward will lead to reliable recall. We hope you found this blog post helpful. Stay tuned for a follow-up where we’ll show you how LearnLanes progresses with this training. For more tips and training sessions, subscribe to our blog at LearnLanes.com. See you in the next post!

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Additional Tips for Effective Recall Training

To further enhance your recall training efforts, here are some additional tips that can make a significant difference:

1. Vary the Rewards: Keep your dog engaged by varying the rewards you offer. This can include different types of treats, toys, and praise. The element of surprise can make the recall command more exciting for your dog.
2. Practice in Different Environments: To ensure your dog’s recall is reliable in various situations, practice in different environments. Start in a controlled, low-distraction area and gradually move to more challenging settings, such as parks, beaches, and urban areas.
3. Use a Long Line for Training: A long training lead (15-30 feet) allows your dog more freedom while still giving you control. This is particularly useful when transitioning from on-leash to off-leash recall.
4. Incorporate Games: Make recall training fun by incorporating games such as hide and seek, where you hide and call your dog to find you. This not only reinforces the recall command but also strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
5. Stay Positive and Upbeat: Dogs respond best to positive, upbeat energy. Use a happy, encouraging tone when calling your dog, and always reward them enthusiastically when they respond correctly.
6. Practice Short, Frequent Sessions: Short, frequent training sessions are more effective than long, drawn-out ones. Aim for multiple short sessions throughout the day to keep your dog’s attention and prevent burnout.
7. Be Patient with Setbacks: Training is a process, and setbacks are normal. If your dog struggles with recall in certain situations, take a step back and reinforce the basics before moving forward again.
8. Use a Release Command: Teach your dog a release command, such as “okay” or “free,” to signal that they can leave after being recalled. This helps them understand when they are free to go and when they need to stay with you.

Understanding Canine Learning

To effectively train your dog, it’s important to understand how dogs learn. Dogs learn through a process called operant conditioning, which involves reinforcing desired behaviors and discouraging unwanted ones. Here’s a brief overview of the key concepts:

1. Positive Reinforcement: Adding something pleasant to encourage a behavior. For example, giving a treat when your dog comes when called.
2. Negative Reinforcement: Removing something unpleasant to encourage a behavior. For example, releasing pressure on the prong collar when your dog starts coming towards you.
3. Positive Punishment: Adding something unpleasant to discourage a behavior. For example, using a firm “no” or a correction on the prong collar if your dog ignores the recall command.
4. Negative Punishment: Removing something pleasant to discourage a behavior. For example, withholding a treat if your dog ignores the recall command.

By understanding these principles, you can more effectively communicate with your dog and shape their behavior through training.

The Role of Socialization

Socialization plays a crucial role in recall training. A well-socialized dog is more likely to respond positively to recall commands, even in distracting environments. Expose your dog to a variety of people, animals, and situations from a young age to build their confidence and reduce anxiety. This exposure helps your dog learn to focus on you, even when there are distractions present.

Building a Strong Foundation

A strong foundation in basic obedience commands is essential for effective recall training. Commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “come” form the basis of more advanced training. Ensure your dog has a solid understanding of these commands before moving on to more complex recall exercises. This foundation provides the structure and discipline needed for reliable recall.

Training Tools and Equipment

Using the right tools and equipment can make recall training more effective. Here are some recommended items:

1. Training Lead: A long, lightweight lead that allows your dog to roam while still giving you control.
2. Prong Collar: Used correctly, this can be an effective communication tool for dogs that don’t respond to other methods.
3. Whistle: Provides a consistent, clear recall signal that can be heard over long distances.
4. High-Value Treats: Use the most desirable treats for recall training to motivate your dog.
5. Toys: For dogs that are toy-driven, use their favorite toy as a reward.

The Importance of Clear Commands

Clear, consistent commands are crucial for effective recall training. Use the same word or phrase for the recall command every time, and ensure everyone in the household does the same. Avoid using multiple commands for the same action, as this can confuse your dog. Be clear and consistent in your tone and body language to reinforce the command.

Creating a Training Plan

A well-structured training plan can help you stay organized and track your dog’s progress. Here’s a sample training plan for recall:

1. Week 1-2: Focus on basic obedience commands and building a strong foundation. Practice “sit,” “stay,” and “come” in a controlled environment.
2. Week 3-4: Introduce the recall command in a low-distraction environment. Use a training lead and high-value rewards. Practice short, frequent sessions.
3. Week 5-6: Gradually increase the level of distractions during training sessions. Practice recall in different environments, such as the backyard, a quiet park, and a busy street.
4. Week 7-8: Introduce the whistle as a recall signal. Pair the whistle with the verbal recall command and gradually phase out the verbal command.
5. Week 9-10: Practice recall off-leash in a safe, enclosed area. Gradually increase the distance and level of distractions.
6. Week 11-12: Continue practicing recall in various environments and situations. Focus on consistency and reliability.

Monitoring Progress and Adjusting Training

Regularly monitor your dog’s progress and adjust the training plan as needed. Keep a training journal to track successes, challenges, and any adjustments made. This can help you identify patterns and make informed decisions about how to proceed. Be flexible and willing to adapt the training plan based on your dog’s individual needs and progress.

Conclusion

Training a reliable recall is a rewarding journey that strengthens the bond between you and your dog. By understanding your dog’s motivations, using positive reinforcement, and staying consistent, you can turn a frustrating recall problem into a reliable, life-saving command. For LearnLanes, earning physical play through responding to the whistle is the key to success. Consistent practice and maintaining a balance between correction and reward will lead to a reliable recall.

We hope you found this blog post helpful. Stay tuned for a follow-up where we’ll show you how LearnLanes progresses with this training. For more tips and training sessions, subscribe to our blog at LearnLanes.com. See you in the next post!

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By following these guidelines and tips, you can achieve a perfect recall with your dog, even in the most challenging cases. Remember, training is a journey that requires patience, consistency, and dedication. Celebrate each small victory along the way, and enjoy the process of building a stronger bond with your furry companion.