7 Tips To Training Your Dog To Come When Called - Dog Trainer in Ottawa

Hey there frustrated dog owners of Ottawa! Belen here, and I get it – trying to get your furball to come when called can be downright exasperating! I mean, we ask nicely, we call them, we even resort to shouting and screaming. And don’t even get me started on the embarrassment when they decide to play Olympic sprinter at the park, with everyone watching our futile attempts!

It’s like they have selective hearing, right? They come running when it’s dinner time, or when they want a pat, but the moment you need them to come because you’re about to leave or they’re eyeing someone’s picnic, they’re suddenly auditioning for “Canada’s Next Top Canine Sprinter.” I’ve been there, folks, and as a professional dog trainer, I’ve seen it all.

But here’s the thing – getting your dog to come when called in Ottawa doesn’t have to feel like wrestling a greased pig. In fact, it’s one of the most common issues, and guess what? It’s also one of the simplest to solve, if you know the tricks. So, let’s dive into my 7 Secrets To A Successful Recall and turn that frustrated frown upside down.

Secret 1: Tasty Treats – Because Who Can Resist Bacon for Dogs?

I know, bribery is not our favorite parenting technique, but trust me on this – when it comes to the recall game, food is your best friend. Think of it as a paycheck for a job well done. When you’re asking your dog to drop everything and sprint back from their beach adventure, a mere pat on the head won’t cut it. They need a little extra motivation, and bacon-flavored treats can be the superhero cape your recall needs.

And yes, we can fade out the treats later, but for now, let’s embrace the power of the snack.

Secret 2: Keep Control – Because We’re Not Letting Our Dogs Join the Track Team

Ever had that heart-stopping moment when your dog decides they’re auditioning for a sequel to “Bolt” and won’t come back? Yeah, it’s panic mode. The truth is, if they’re running wild, there’s not much you can do. That’s where control comes in.

Attach them to a line – a leash or a long line – and let them feel the pull of freedom while you maintain some sanity. Safety tip: Clip it to a dog harness, not just their collar, to avoid accidental injuries.

Secret 3: Setting our Dogs up to Win – Because Winning is a Two-Way Street

Picture this: your dog is off-leash, doing their happy dance, and you decide to be the buzzkill by calling them back immediately. Hold on! Are they in the middle of committing a crime? Nope. Are they in danger? Definitely not. So why ruin their fun?

Let them have their little adventure, and call them when you know they’ll actually come. Less is more, my friends. Only call them when you’re confident they’ll trot back, treat in hand. It keeps it special, like a surprise party for good behavior.

Secret 4: One Clear, Constant Command – Because We’re Not Hosting a Vocabulary Bee

How many different names, phrases, or voices do you use when calling your dog? Be honest now! Multiple commands just add to the confusion. We want one clear phrase or word, consistently delivered in the same tone. This phrase should translate to, “Come here, get a treat, and then back to playtime.”

And please, no scolding when they finally make it. Clip that leash on and act like their arrival is no big deal. It’s about positive reinforcement, not creating a vicious circle of fear.

Secret 5: Use the (HUGE) Power of Random Rewards – Because Who Doesn’t Love a Surprise Prize?

We play the lottery for the chance to win big, not for the ten bucks, right? Dogs are no different. If they know they might get a dry biscuit at best, the excitement is minimal. But throw in the possibility of sausage, cheese, or their favorite treat, and suddenly, they’re sprinting Olympic-level speeds.

Keep it random, keep them guessing. Treats in a bag or pocket, revealed only once they’ve returned, make the game more enticing. Sometimes one piece, sometimes five pieces – that’s the randomness we’re aiming for.

Secret 6: Increasing the Motivation – Because a Hungry Dog is an Obedient Dog

Think about it – a hungry dog will work for food, while a full dog might give you the classic canine eye-roll. Take them for a walk before feeding them, making treats a reward for their hard work. It’s like having breakfast in your pouch, and they have to “work” for it. Fun, right?

Remember, eating after vigorous exercise is better for both humans and dogs. It’s a win-win.

Secret 7: Consider the use of a professional dog whistle – Because Sometimes, We Need to Blow Our Own Horn

Ever wonder why farmers and pro trainers use dog whistles? They’re easy to use, constant in sound, travel far, and save your vocal cords. The neutral sound cuts through background noise, making it a clear signal for your dog to heed.

It’s not about replacing your voice command, but having a super urgent recall when needed. Plus, it’s like having a fresh start in the recall game.

So there you have it, folks – my 7 Secrets To A Successful Recall. Start from the top, work your way down the list, and witness the magic unfold. And because I’m feeling generous, 

I promise you, these tips work. In fact, I’ve trained hundreds of dogs using these methods. Discover the proof here!

Now, go out there and conquer that recall game!