Why is recall so important?

A patient dalmatian

Recall should be one of the basic things that every dog owner teaches their dog. It shouldn't be optional. It's like learning to read for a human, they all need to know it. Some may find it harder than others if not taught early enough but they are all capable.

A dog with no recall can go against the dangerous dog act, if your dog causes injury to a person or worries livestock you can be held liable. You can receive a fine, a prison sentence and risk losing your dog. Is all of that really worth it for the sake of letting your dog off lead because you haven't trained it recall?

Why risk your dog getting injured?

Lost?

Killed?

Why risk your dog causing injuries?

To people?

To other animals?

If you struggle to train your dog yourself there is no shame in consulting a trainer to solve the issue at hand.

There are so many ways to teach your dog recall, but the main thing is that you make it worth their time coming back. As with us in a job we get paid, and it makes us return. In recall it is super important we pay our dog with rewards when they come back to us. Whether you whistle train or voice train its all the same.

Another key factor to recall is being valuable to your dog, they need to want to come back to YOU. If you don't have a solid relationship or have something for them to come back for its going to make recall a hell of alot harder.

Realistically a dog shouldn't be let off until its recall is near perfect, use a long line or a secure venue until you know you can trust your dog.

And again, don't feel bad if you need to contact a trainer for help.