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Teach Your Dog to Recall: Step-by-Step Guide

by Sharon Glazzard

Teaching your dog to come when called - known as recall - is one of the most important skills they can learn. A reliable recall keeps your dog safe, builds trust, and makes walks more enjoyable. But recall isn’t automatic - it takes patience, consistency, and the right rewards.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to building a strong recall, plus some recommended products from Be More Bob to help you along the way.

Step 1: Build the Foundation

Before practicing recall outdoors, teach your dog that responding to you is always worthwhile.

Start with the basics:

  • Name → Attention Drill: Say your dog’s name, reward them the moment they look at you.

  • Short Recalls Indoors: Step back a few feet, call “Come!” in a cheerful voice, and reward when they arrive. (Pick your command word and stick with it. 'Come', 'Here', 'Back' - whichever word you choose, consistency is key)

  • High-Value Rewards: Always use something your dog loves. The higher the distraction, the higher the reward should be. Don't over-reward during the day, rewards should be used for reinforcing good behaviour.

💡 Pro Tip: Never punish your dog after a recall. Coming back to you should always feel safe and rewarding. If they get it wrong (and they will, they need time to learn, then go back to basic steps and give them more time).

Step 2: Use the Right Rewards

Recall takes lots of repetition, so you’ll want small, healthy, and tasty rewards.

Here are some top options from Be More Bob:

👉 Explore our full puppy friendly treat collection here. Puppy Food & Treats – Be More Bob

Step 3: Take It Outside (Safely)

When your dog is reliable indoors, move outside with a long training line (10–20 m). This gives freedom while keeping your dog safe.

  • Start in a quiet field or park.

  • Call once, in a happy tone. Reward generously when they come.

  • If they hesitate, gently reel them in with the long line, then reward.

Pair your training with a comfortable harness, ideally with both front and back clips for extra control like the Ruffwear Hi & Light - Ruffwear Hi & Light Lightweight Harness – Be More Bob

Take a look at our long lines - Mikki Recall Training Lead – Be More Bob

Step 4: Proof Against Distractions

Dogs don’t generalize well - just because they come indoors doesn’t mean they’ll recall at the park. Gradually add distractions:

  • Other dogs (at a distance at first)

  • People walking by

  • Wildlife or exciting smells

Always bring your best treats for these scenarios. Sometimes, using a mix of rewards (treats, tug toys, or a quick game) keeps recall exciting.

If you find your dog isn't responding to treats, it could be that their 'best prize' is a toy or just your affection.  Try to work out what motivates your dog.

Some dogs absolutely adore Tug-e-Nuff toys and they can be amazing for recall. If you use a toy as a reward, remember to put it away when you get home - it should only be used for training. If you leave it lying around, it will loose its appeal.

Tug-E-Nuff – Be More Bob

Step 5: Keep It Fun & Consistent

  • Use a release cue (e.g., “OK!”) so your dog isn’t stuck by your side.

  • Turn it into a game: run backwards, play hide & seek, or recall races with family members.

  • Occasionally reward with something extra special (pate, a favourite toy used only for training) so your dog never knows when the jackpot is coming, but they always know that you are THE MOST exciting place to be.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Mistake Why It’s a Problem How to Fix
Using recall to end fun (e.g., calling only to leash up) Dog learns recall = end of play Recall, reward, then release back to play sometimes
Not rewarding enough Recall becomes boring Always reward, especially in training stages - but find out what motivates your dog
Training only in one place Dogs won’t generalize Practice in different locations and with different distractions. Always use a long leash if you are in an unsecured area.

Sample 4-Week Training Plan

Week Focus Practice
1 Foundation indoors Short recalls with treats and praise - LOTS of praise!
2 Garden / low-distraction outdoor Add mild distractions. Different noises, different people 
3 Long line in quiet park Recall from greater distances
4 Higher distractions Other dogs, busy parks, stronger rewards

Don't move on a stage until you are seeing consistent results with the previous stage.

Which Products Do I need to nail my training?

We specialise in natural, healthy, and training-friendly treats that make recall practice rewarding without upsetting your dog’s diet. From puppy-safe nibbles to grain-free options, they’ve got something for every stage of training.

👉 Explore their full treats range and puppy collection. Puppy Food & Treats – Be More Bob

Also grab yourself a long line and a harness. Ideally you don't want your long line attached to a collar, as it will jerk and pull your puppy's neck.

If your pup isn't responding well to treats, experiment to find out what their favourite toy is. For some it's balls, for others tug toys. When you find the right toy, only use it for your training moments - put it away when you get home.

Final Thoughts

A solid recall is built on trust, consistency, and great rewards. With patience - and a pocket full of the best treats, or your dog's favourite training toy, you can create a recall your dog will love responding to.

Don't lose heart if your dog takes steps forward and then regresses. It's a natural stage in puppies, and although it can be frustrating, you know you've built a foundation.

If your puppy suddenly starts ignoring you - which can happen as puberty hits - go back to your basics. Consistency and persistency is key. You know your dog best, and if you feel that your recall isn't on point, or starts to falter, go back to the long-line for safety.

Training doesn't end when your puppy 'grows up'. A dog should be (and will enjoy) training throughout their life.

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