How to train your dog to come back when called
Good recall means your dog comes back to you whatever is going on around them. Before you let your dog off the lead, you need to be confident they'll return. These steps follow Dogs Trust's recall training advice.
Why dogs don't come back
Usually it's because the world off the lead is more exciting than you, or your dog isn't sure you really want them back. The aim is to make coming back to you the best thing that can happen, every time.
3 steps to good recall
Teach their name, then a recall cue
Start with your dog's name so you can get their attention quickly. Once they respond reliably, add a short cue such as "come" or "here", or a whistle, plus a hand signal like opening your arms wide in case they can't hear you. Everyone at home should use the same word and gesture.
Always reward the return
Practise indoors or in the garden first. Say their name, give the cue and step away. When they reach you, praise them and give a treat they really love. Sound happy, crouch down and open your arms. Praise them however long they took.
Add distance and distractions slowly
Let your dog wander a little further before you call, then gradually practise in busier places. Use a long line clipped to a harness, not a collar, while you train outside.
Mistakes to avoid
- Calling over and over. Give your dog at least five seconds to respond before calling again
- Calling when they're unlikely to come, which teaches them that ignoring you is fine
- Shouting or getting angry, which makes coming back less appealing
- Pulling them in on the long line. Guide them in gently, or go and collect them
- Stopping rewards completely. Reward less often as they improve, but keep rewarding sometimes
When to let your dog off the lead
Only let your dog off the lead in open spaces once you're confident they'll come back when called. Until then, use a long line or a secure, enclosed area. Running off puts dogs at risk from roads, other dogs, farm animals and thieves.
If your dog's recall isn't improving, Dogs Trust suggests training classes or a qualified trainer or behaviourist. If your dog keeps running off, see why dogs run away.
While you're still training
Dogs Trust reminds owners that dogs must wear a collar and ID tag in public, and microchip details must be up to date. A PawTrak QR plate on the collar gives whoever finds your dog a quick way to reach you.
- Any phone camera reads it. No app needed.
- The finder can message you and share their location.
- Keep your name and address tag on too. It's the law.
Shop collars · See what a finder sees