A solid recall could one day save your dog's life, and the good news is you can start building it today with just a few minutes of practice.
Choose a word or phrase — like "come!" or your dog's name — and every single time your dog comes to you, reward them generously with treats, praise, or a game.
The key is to make coming back to you the best thing that ever happens to them, so never call your dog to you for something they find unpleasant, like a bath or the end of playtime.
Start practising in a quiet area of your home with minimal distractions, then gradually move to busier environments as their confidence grows. Consistency and positivity are everything — the more you reward a great recall, the more reliable it becomes!
Tip of the Day: Building Confidence with Calm Greetings
If your dog gets overwhelmed or overly excited when meeting new people, try asking visitors to turn sideways and avoid direct eye contact when they first come in — this takes the pressure off your dog and gives them space to approach in their own time.
Reward any calm behaviour with quiet praise or a treat, keeping the energy low and relaxed. Over time, this simple adjustment teaches your dog that new people mean good things, without the big fuss that can tip them into anxiety or overexcitement. Little moments like this, practised consistently, build real, lasting confidence.
