The Animal Welfare Society in Kennebunk is a truly wonderful organization that provides loving and caring service to many animals. I had a relative who used to work and volunteer there to help teach educational classes to the youth and bring awareness of being a responsible pet owner.
Their monthly public newsletter recently shared some tips on teaching your dog “recall,” which seemed like some useful information to share with you.
Recall, or having your dog come when called, is a useful skill to teach. If your dog is often off-leash, having them come when you call them is important to ensure their safety. Even if they’re on leash, this skill can reduce stress and help you feel more confident in your connection with your dog.
Here are some tips the society suggests.
The first step is to call your dog. Using cheerful tones is more likely to produce a result, and make sure you are loud enough to be heard. Remember to actually give the cue with their name, followed by what you want them to do: “Buddy, come.” A name on its own is not a command.
Next, make this exercise fun. Clap, whistle, squat, throw your arms out and cheer your dog on. When they arrive, have them sit, then give them treats or throw the ball. If appropriate, release them back to whatever they were up to.
Never call your dog for anything unpleasant, such as nail clipping, bathing or having his leash clipped on to go home from the park — in short, anything that might make him unhappy when he answers the recall.
Never call your dog if you aren’t sure they will come. All recalls should be successful. Work at your dog’s level; if they have a kindergarten-level recall, don’t give them a graduate assignment like being called away from a cat in a tree.
If you call your dog and they don’t come, you must make it happen: Run over to them and put a treat in front of their nose, backing up as you get their attention, so they follow you.
Never repeat the cue. Resist the urge to call over and over and over. Your dog will only learn to tune out the cue. Call once and, if necessary, utilize rule 3 above and make the recall happen.
Fabulous rewards get fabulous recalls. If you want your dog to stop whatever interesting doggie thing they’re up to and come running to you, make it worth their while. Use extra yummy treats — not just dry biscuits — or a well-thrown ball, if that’s more their fancy.
Experiment with treats they haven’t tried but you think they’ll be excited for — maybe Cheez Whiz or liver paste — and hide them around the house. Once or twice a day when your dog isn’t expecting to be called, call them and reward with the extra special treat.
When working outside, practice in enclosed spaces or with a 30-foot leash until your dog’s recall is reliable.
We want the best experience ever, for you and your furry companion. So, try to take the time to teach your dog recall and enjoy a more confident and rewarding relationship.
Be sure to check out the animals that are available for adoption at the Central Aroostook Humane Society. You can also check us out on Facebook.
Please be responsible: spay and neuter your pets.
Gloria J. Towle is on the Central Aroostook Humane Society board of directors.
