Puppy Recall Training: Getting Charlie to Come Under Distraction
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As a breeder and trainer, I have a saying: "A recall is the only command that can save your dog's life." It’s easy to get Charlie to come to me in the hallway when I have a piece of cheese in my hand. It’s a completely different challenge when we are outside and a squirrel or a stray tennis ball enters the chat.
At 13 weeks, Charlie is already developing a strong "Coming when called" habit, but it’s not because he’s a genius—it’s because I’ve built a foundation that makes me more exciting than anything else in the environment. Here is the professional strategy for building a recall under distraction.
The "Long Line" Safety Net
The #1 mistake owners make is calling their dog when they know the dog isn't going to come. If you call "Come!" and Charlie ignores you to keep sniffing a bush, he just learned that "Come" is optional.
When we are outside, Charlie is always on a 30-foot Long Line. This is a training leash that gives him freedom to explore but gives me a "remote control" if he gets distracted. If I call him and he doesn't move, I can gently guide him toward me. I never give him the chance to ignore a command. I’ve linked the specific durable, waterproof long line I use for Charlie on my Gear Page.
The "Rocket Ship" Reward
A recall should never be boring. If Charlie comes to me, I don't just give him a dry biscuit and a pat on the head. We have a "party."
The Jackpot: I use high-value, stinky treats that he only gets for recalls.
The Chase: I often run away from him after I call him. This triggers his natural instinct to chase me, making the "Come" command a fun game.
No Negative Ends: I never call Charlie to do something he hates, like a bath. If I need to do something "boring," I go get him instead of calling him.
Reliability takes thousands of repetitions. On the days when I can't be out practicing 'Come,' I keep Charlie’s focus sharp and his habits clean using Tether Training Inside the House.
Master the Recall
If your pup is already "blowing off" your commands, you need to "reset" the word. I show you exactly how to rebuild a broken recall and the "Emergency Whistle" technique I use in the Puppy Foundations module of my Goldendoodle Academy. For $45, you’re getting the peace of mind that your dog will come back to you, no matter what.