“Come!” is absolutely crucial
When you call your dog to “Come!” on cue, it isn’t just a good idea. It can save your dog’s life. It can also save your nose.
From the memory files:
Case #1: A friend unexpectedly knocked on our door. We corralled most of the dogs, but Booker (who’s special in a not-so-good way) slipped out and was headed for the street. As he was bouncing back and forth, clearly in play mode, a car was approaching. We couldn’t panic, but we had to get him back to safety. Against every human instinct, Hope ran, fast as she could, away from Booker, calling his name. As dogs reliably will, he chased her right into our fenced yard.
Case #2: Hope had Razzmatazz out for last-outing-before-bedtime. As they reached the backyard, Hope spotted a skunk in the yard. First instinct? Panic! Thinking mode: Yelled “Come!” and started running back to the door. Snagged Razzy as soon as he got close enough and the tomato-juice supply went untapped.
Rule of the Recall
In dog training, the “Come!” command is called the Recall, so that’s what we’ll use. There are two kinds of Recall; the Chase Recall and the Stationary Recall.
The one absolute rule, regardless of which you’re using, is Never Call Your Dog To You For Anything They Don’t Like.
If your dog hates getting a bath, never call them into the bathroom for a bath. Go get them. Lead them in.
It’s a trust thing. If you only ever call your dog for happy, fun things (training games, meals, walks), they’ll know good things await. If they can’t rely on that being true, they have no reason to do what you want.
Start With the Chase
Dogs are hard-wired to notice and pursue motion. It’s why a bunny in motion attracts their attention. A bunny frozen in place (instinct on display) will probably not be noticed. It’s why Hope ran away from Booker when he slipped out of the house.
To play the Chase Recall game, put your dog in a Sit/Stay. If your dog doesn’t have a reliable Stay!, have someone hold the dog. (Check out this article for getting an unbreakable Stay!) Turn your back and walk away. When you’re about half-way to the other side of the room or yard, break into a run and yell your dog’s name. When they catch up to you, celebrate and reward heavily. This is a great opportunity to use a tug toy as a reward. It reinforces the fun of coming to you.
For an extra measure of security, when your dog reaches you, grab onto their collar or harness and immediately release it. (Simon is playing the Collar Grab game with Fran in the photo.) This teaches the dog that it’s not a big deal. And lays the foundation of getting hold of them when you really need to. Like when there’s a skunk loose in your yard.
Stationary Recall
When your dog is reliably coming at speed, try the Stationary Recall. Put your dog in a Sit / Stay and confidently walk away. With your back to the dog. If you’re hesitant, walking backwards, or keep repeating, it tells your dog you don’t really mean it.
When you get a few feet away, turn around and call your dog. The more enthusiastic you sound, the faster your dog will run to you. When they get close, tell them to “Sit!” This builds the habit of politely greeting people. When they do, celebrate with treat rewards or a game of tug.
Always Be Happy They “Come!”
Just like you’ll never call your dog for unpleasant things, always be happy when they arrive. If you call your dog 99 times and they don’t come, but they do on the 100th attempt, you still celebrate. It’s a complete command-killer to greet them with “Where were you?” Even if you’re a bit frustrated, put it aside and celebrate the little win. You’ll know the cue needs more practice. Make a mental note and put it aside. Play with your good dog.