Puppies start their recall training from a very young age. When they are fed, their Puppy Walker asks the pup to sit and then blows a whistle three times to indicate to the pup it can now eat its food. This provides the dog with a positive association between the whistle and food. The pup is also encouraged to make contact on return in the garden or in the home which is then rewarded with vocal praise.  This is all part of teaching the pup the command 'come'. When teaching a guide dog puppy, we use the command 'come' as well as the whistle.  The whistle is used as it is a clear and unemotional aid for training. 

All training of the 'come' command is done in an enclosed and easily controlled area until the command is well established. The pup is then ready to practise out in a busier environment on a long lead or flexi lead. This again allows the training to be positive in a safe environment as the dog is still on lead. The same protocal as before is used: three whistle blasts and the command 'come'. The dog on returning to their Puppy Walker receives a treat and vocal praise.  Once a good response has been achieved, the area practised in can increase in size and distractions. Distractions can include anything from a loose dog to a family having a picnic at the beach.  It's important to get plenty of practice in lots of different types of environments.

There are a few key factors to remember when teaching recall. You should always call a dog back to you several times during a walk.  Do this to for example attach the dog's lead, praise the dog for returning and then letting the dog loose again. This prevents the dog from negatively associating the arrival of the lead and collar with the end of the walk. Secondly, no matter how slow or poor the response of their recall, a dog should never be reprimanded upon returning. The dog should always see returning to their owner as a positive so affirm the dog with lots of praise, encouraging body language and treats - these are all positive training aids.

Guide dogs in training all practice their recall in the grass and sand runs at the centre before they start their Free Run Fridays. This is to make sure the dogs have bonded with their new trainer and that a good level of obediance is achieved before attempting free-running in a busier environment. Free-running is a fantastic way of letting the dogs unwind after a working week and ensuring each dog in training develops a good recall response. 

Pictured here are Uzz and Trent enjoying some free-running in the sand runs here at our National Headquarters and Training Centre in Cork.