Understanding Your Dog's Response to Recall

Canine recall is a behavior that's not just useful, but a key part of keeping them safe.

A good recall often overrides your dog's natural instincts. When a squirrel darts across their path, your dog's predatory sequence may kick in - orient, eye, stalk, chase. It's hardwired behaviour dating back through time. We're essentially teaching our dogs that responding to us is more rewarding than following their prey drive. 

Dogs are naturally inclined to roam and explore - their senses are AMAZING! For example, did you know that your dog can smell for about a 3 mile radius? Imagine that distance from where you are now reading this and all the information that your dog is taking in. Teaching a good recall allows dogs the freedom to satisfy their exploratory urges while reinforcing their connection to you. This balance is crucial for their wellbeing, reducing stress, allowing them to use their natural instinct but also promoting confidence.

Recall training should be made fun and build on the bond you have with the dog. Training can be built in to day to day life as well as having dedicated training sessions that are kept really short and sweet. Start in a safe environment like your home and build up to the garden, drive way and beyond setting the dog up for success always. The repeated positive association builds trust and can even help with other behavioural challenges.

Always use the same cue so that there is no confusion about what is expected from them, but consider having a high value back up e.g. a squeaky toy as a back up.

Dogs have evolved to read human social cues better than any other species. A well developed recall taps into this unique ability. When you call your dog, you're not just giving a cue; you're engaging in a complex social interaction that your dog is uniquely equipped to understand and respond to.

Recall is more than just a convenience in your busy life as you try to tick a million things off your to-do list; it's a fundamental part of the relationship you have with your dog. It combines instinct, learning, social cognition and emotional control. By understanding and nurturing this behaviour, we not only keep our dogs safe but also deepen our understanding of canine psychology.

So next time you call your dog and they come bounding back, take a moment to appreciate the beautiful complexity of what's really happening. It's not just them doing as they're told - it's a testament to the incredible bond between you and the dog, shaped by thousands of years of coevolution.