This week once Timber understood the climb command, we started to incorporate a recall. Just to reiterate, climb is an elevated platform that when the dog is given the command they go directly to that platform and wait to be called off from. Recall is having the dog return to the handler once commanded. Now it depends on the handler where exactly the dog goes once the recall command is given, for example to a heel position or in front of the trainer.

The first step in the recall command is to be sure that the dog understands that they are to stay on the climb until the recall command is given. Sometimes this may become unclear to them and they may not want to move from the platform. Using slight pressure from the leash and bumping with the e-collar, otherwise known as an electric collar, call the dog to you. Once the dog begins to move in your direction, be sure to mark good or yes depending on what your choice of marking is.

Once the beginning stages of using recall are started, you will need to work on getting the dog to fluently come to the desired position when the command is given. Recall commands could be; come, here, or front. Whichever command you’re using make sure to be consistent with that word. If the dog starts to anticipate the recall, try to change the time duration and how you are rewarding once you have marked for the correct behavior. This will keep the dog from anticipating when the recall command will be given.

This skill will set the foundation for any recall work in the future. Whether it be getting the dog to come back inside, bringing back a bird, or even just out playing ball. Recalling has a variety of uses, especially once the remaining skills are implemented into the dog’s basic obedience. Watch for later post that will have other ways recall is being used in training to set the dog up for success.