You know that moment when you call your dog at the park—and they look at you like, “Yeah right, I’m busy sniffing this mysterious patch of grass”? Yeah, we’ve all been there.
Getting your dog to come when called—reliably—is one of the holy grails of dog training. It’s called the come command, or sometimes the recall command, and when done right, it’s a game-changer for both your sanity and your dog’s safety.
Let’s break it down together (minus the frustration and doggy side-eyes).
Why the Come Command Deserves a Spot on the Training Throne
Of all the basic obedience commands, the come command is the one that can literally save your dog’s life. It’s not just about good manners—it’s about keeping your pup out of danger. Think: busy roads, unfriendly dogs, or when they’re about to roll in something you wish you hadn’t seen.
Plus, it gives your dog more freedom. If they can be trusted to return with a strong recall command, they can enjoy more off-leash time. Win-win!
Set the Stage: Getting Ready to Teach Recall
Before we jump into training, let’s cover the prep work. (Yes, there’s prep work—this isn’t Hogwarts, unfortunately.)
1. Stock Up on High-Value Treats
We’re not talking about boring old kibble. Grab the good stuff: small pieces of chicken, cheese, or your dog’s absolute favorite snacks. You want them to think, “Wow, coming back to you is totally worth it.”
2. Choose a Distraction-Free Zone
Start indoors or in your backyard. Teaching the recall command in the middle of a squirrel-filled park is like learning algebra at a theme park—not ideal.
3. Use a Long Leash (Optional but Helpful)
A long leash (15–30 feet) helps you practice safely while giving your dog space to move around.
Step-by-Step: How to Teach the Come Command
Okay, ready for the fun part? Let’s train that recall like a pro.
Step 1: Start Small and Close
Start with your dog just a few feet away. Say their name, followed by a clear, cheerful “Come!” Use a happy tone. Sound like you’re about to throw a party. Dogs love enthusiasm.
The moment they start heading your way, praise them. And when they arrive? Jackpot—treat and praise like they just won the lottery.
Step 2: Add Distance Slowly
Once they’ve nailed it close-up, increase the distance gradually. Keep practicing in a quiet environment until they’re practically teleporting to you on command.
Step 3: Introduce Mild Distractions
Add a toy, a friend walking by, or a leaf doing something suspicious (because apparently that’s interesting). Use the come command and reward them big if they choose you over the distraction.
Step 4: Take It Outside
Now it’s time to go outdoors—on a long leash if needed. Gradually work up to parks, trails, or your backyard with open space. Remember, every time they respond to the recall command, they should think, “This is the best decision I’ve ever made.”
What Not to Do (Please and Thank You)
Even the best intentions can backfire. Let’s avoid these classic recall training mistakes:
Don’t Use “Come” for Negative Stuff
If every time you say “Come,” your dog gets a bath, goes in the crate, or gets their fun cut short, guess what? They’ll stop coming.
Pro tip: always end the come command with something positive—even if it’s just a cuddle or a treat.
Don’t Chase Your Dog
Chasing your dog when they don’t come turns it into a game—one where you’re always losing. Instead, turn and walk (or even run) the other way. Often, they’ll follow.
Don’t Overuse It When It’s Not Working
If your dog isn’t responding and you keep repeating “Come! Come! Come!” they’ll learn to tune it out. Say it once, make it count, and go back a step in training if needed.
Fun Games to Reinforce the Come Command
Let’s make recall training fun! It doesn’t have to feel like homework.
(1) Hide and Seek
Call your dog from another room or hide behind a tree. When they find you—party time! This game makes the come command a fun mystery.
(2) Round Robin Recall
Get a few family members or friends. Stand in different spots and take turns calling your dog and rewarding them. It’s like musical chairs—but tastier
(3) Chase Me
Turn the tables—call your dog and then run away a few steps. Dogs love the chase (and being the one to catch you makes it extra rewarding).
Troubleshooting: What If They Just… Don’t Come?
Don’t panic. Here are a few fixes:
- Too distracted? Go back to a quieter setting.
- Not motivated? Upgrade those treats!
- Too bored? Keep sessions short and exciting. Always leave them wanting more.
And remember, some dogs (looking at you, Huskies) take longer than others. That’s okay! Consistency is key in recall command success.
Tracking Progress (Without Losing Your Mind)
Create a simple recall tracker: mark when your dog successfully comes on command in different settings—home, backyard, park, around other dogs. Celebrate the wins!
Real Talk: Will My Dog EVER Be 100% Reliable?
Here’s the truth: Even the best-trained dogs can have an off day. No one is perfect (except maybe golden retrievers on Instagram).
Your goal should be mostly reliable recall in most situations. And that, my friend, is a massive achievement worth celebrating.
