
Does your dog ignore you when you call?
Or worse—run the other way?
Teaching a reliable recall is essential for safety and can even save your dog’s life.
- Avoid the #1 recall mistake most dog owners make.
- Use a step-by-step system that makes your dog WANT to come back.
- Try fun recall games that build trust and excitement.
- Reward success with a simple, healthy treat recipe your dog will love!
Let’s turn “Come here!” into a command your dog never ignores!
Table of contents
- How To Get Your Dog to Come When Called (EVERY TIME)
- The #1 Mistake Dog Owners Make
- Step-by-Step Guide: Training Recall Like a Pro
- Fun Recall Training Games
- How to Fix a Broken Recall
- Healthy Recall Treat Recipe: “Irresistible Chicken Bites”
- The Science of Recall: Why Dogs Respond
- Conclusion
- ⚠️ Quiz: The #1 Dog Food To AVOID (causes weight gain, saps energy & harms your dog’s gut)
- ⚠️ Top Trending Today
How To Get Your Dog to Come When Called (EVERY TIME)
The #1 Mistake Dog Owners Make

Most dog owners unintentionally sabotage their dogs’ recall training. Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Calling your dog repeatedly: Saying “Come! Come! Come!” teaches your dog that the command is optional. They learn to ignore it until it’s convenient for them.
- Punishing your dog for coming back late: If you scold your dog when they finally return, you’re teaching them that coming back equals trouble. This makes them hesitant to return next time.
- Using recall only for “bad” things: If you only call your dog to end playtime, leave the park, or go to the vet, they’ll associate coming to you with negative consequences.
- Lack of follow-through: If you call your dog and they don’t respond, then let it slide, you’re teaching them to ignore recall commands.
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Pro Tip: Make coming to you the best thing ever! Use treats, toys, and praise to show your dog that recall is always worth their while.
Step-by-Step Guide: Training Recall Like a Pro
Ready to teach your dog to come running every time you call? Follow this easy, step-by-step process:
1. Start Indoors or in a Quiet, Controlled Environment
Begin training in a distraction-free location, like your living room or backyard. Use a long leash or keep your dog close to ensure you have control.
- Say their name, then “come” in an excited, upbeat tone.
- As soon as they move toward you, reward them with a treat or a toy.
- Repeat several times to create a strong association between “come” and something positive.
Real-Life Example: Sarah, a dog owner, started recall training in her quiet backyard. At first, her dog, Bella, was hesitant. But, with rewards and a happy voice, Bella began to run to her every time she called.
2. Use High-Value Rewards
Dogs need motivation! Basic kibble won’t cut it during recall training—use something they absolutely love.
- Examples: small pieces of chicken, cheese, or freeze-dried liver.
- Rotate your treats to keep your dog excited and engaged.
Interesting Fact: Dogs have about 1,700 taste buds (humans have 9,000). So, strong-smelling treats work better than bland food!
3. Make Recall a Positive Experience
Every time your dog comes to you, make it a party! Use your happiest voice, give them treats, and shower them with praise.
- Never punish your dog for coming back late—this will only teach them to avoid you.
- Call your dog randomly throughout the day, even when you don’t need them. Reward them every time to build a positive habit.
Pro Tip: End every recall session on a positive note so your dog is always excited to come back.
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4. Gradually Increase Distractions
Once your dog reliably comes indoors, practice in new places with mild distractions.
- Move to your backyard, a quiet park, or an area with light foot traffic.
- Keep your dog on a long leash for safety.
- Reward them heavily when they succeed, especially in challenging situations.
5. Practice Daily
Short, consistent sessions are key. Spend 5–10 minutes a day practicing recall, and your dog will quickly improve.

Fun Recall Training Games
Training doesn’t have to feel like work! These games make recall fun for both you and your dog:
1. Hide and Seek
- Hide somewhere in your home or yard, then call your dog’s name.
- Reward them with treats and praise when they find you.
- This builds excitement and sharpens their focus on coming to you.
2. Round Robin Recall
- Have family members or friends stand in a circle, each with treats.
- Take turns calling the dog, rewarding them when they come to each person.
- This helps your dog learn to come to anyone when called.
3. Chase Me Game
- Run away from your dog while calling, “come!”
- Dogs love chasing—it taps into their natural prey drive and makes recall exciting.
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4. Treat Toss Recall
- Toss a treat a few feet away and let your dog run to retrieve it.
- The moment they eat the treat, call them back using their recall command.
- Reward them with a second treat for returning.
Interesting Fact: Games in training boost your dog’s recall. They make it a fun activity, not a strict command.
How to Fix a Broken Recall
If your dog already ignores the “come” command, don’t worry—it’s never too late to start fresh.
- Avoid using “come” for now. Choose a new word like “here” or “to me.” This can help your dog forget any negative feelings linked to their old recall cue.
- Rebuild trust. Call your dog at random times throughout the day. Reward them generously every time they come.
- Use a long leash. Practice recall exercises while keeping your dog on a 15- to 30-foot leash. This gives them the freedom to roam while ensuring you can guide them back if needed.
- Make it rewarding. Upgrade your treats or use a favorite toy to show your dog that coming to you is always worth it.
Healthy Recall Treat Recipe: “Irresistible Chicken Bites”
A great recall relies on great rewards! These homemade treats are healthy, affordable, and easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken (unseasoned)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin purée (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup oat flour
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Recipe Variation:
- Swap shredded chicken for lean ground turkey or salmon for a protein-packed alternative.
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the chicken, pumpkin, and oat flour into a dough.
- Roll them into small, bite-sized balls or flatten them into patties.
- Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Let it cool before serving.
Why It’s Perfect: Chicken is high in protein, pumpkin supports digestion, and oat flour is gentle on sensitive stomachs. These treats are a healthy, affordable way to reward your dog!
The Science of Recall: Why Dogs Respond
Did you know that recall taps into your dog’s natural instincts? Here’s why it works so well:
- Dogs are pack animals—they instinctively want to stay close to their “leader.” When you call them, you are recreating that bond.
- Research shows that dogs process commands better when paired with enthusiastic body language. Using your hands and voice together boosts your dog’s understanding.
- Recall isn’t just a learned behavior—it’s a survival skill. In the wild, dogs respond to pack calls to avoid danger or find food.

Interesting Fact: A dog’s hearing is four times more sensitive than ours. So, they can hear your recall command from far away!
Recommended Read: 13 Toxic Foods for Dogs (Avoid #9 Like The Plague!)
Conclusion
A reliable recall can save your dog’s life, give them the freedom to explore, and deepen your bond like never before. With patience, consistency, and rewards, your dog will come when you call, no matter the distractions.
Start practicing today. Your dog is ready to learn, and the results will be worth it for both of you!
What’s your recall success story? Share your experiences or questions in the comments below—we’d love to hear how you’re doing!
⚠️ Quiz: The #1 Dog Food To AVOID (causes weight gain, saps energy & harms your dog’s gut)
A: Chicken
B: Beef
C: Pork
D: Fish
E: Vegetables
Make your selection above or click here to skip straight to the answer.
==> Click Here To Discover #1 Dog Food To Avoid