Why does my dog return slowly during recall?
Written by
David Smith
Reviewed by
Prof. David Walsh, Ph.D.Slow to return signals motivation or training shortfalls on your part. Dogs tend to dawdle when coming home if the reward isn't enticing enough or if the distance is too great. This can put both you and your dog in a compromising situation. If you understand the cause, there's no reason you can't fix it, so your dog will return to you quickly.
Motivation Boosters
- Upgrade to extra-appealing treats like hot dog pieces
- Use novel rewards rotated weekly to maintain excitement
- Incorporate play rewards like tug sessions after fast returns
Distance Management
- Immediately halve current recall distances
- Use visual markers like cones to define boundaries
- Gradually increase only after 90% fast response rates
Equipment Adjustments
- Employ flirt poles for speed-building exercises
- Attach ribbons to harnesses for visual tracking aids
- Use target sticks for precise recall endpoint targeting
Not enough incentive causes most slow returns by kibble dog. Dogs can be easily distracted with ordinary offerings. Always keep certain high-value choices available, such as cheese cubes or liver treats, that are reserved only for when you want your voice back. These high-value things will create enough urgency to cut through the other competing interests.
Excessive distance defeats the dog. If, at thirty feet, your pet is slow to return, immediately decrease to 15 feet. Use traffic cones or cans to emphasize the area. Increase the distance only after three days of consistently fast returns.
Flirt poles develop speed in an organized manner. You will be enticing the pole as you call, creating the motivation to chase. You reward the dog immediately upon reaching you. This equipment will build explosive starts and continued sprinting during recalls.
Consistently reward the fastest returns most generously. For dogs who respond in under 2 seconds, consider giving multiple treats or extending the play session. This reinforcement schedule will teach dogs that speed earns better rewards. Continue to use both variable and negative reinforcement to maintain long-term excitement for the rewards.
Environmental factors have a significant impact on the rate of return. You should train in homogeneous lighting conditions where there are no visual interruptions that may produce hesitation. Look for concealed distractions, such as wildlife scents, that may hinder your dog's progress. Practicing in ideal circumstances is far more beneficial for maintaining momentum.
Read the full article: Dog Recall Training: Essential Guide
