What Makes 'Come' the Hardest Dog Command to Teach?
Training a dog successfully involves a foundation of trust, consistency, and patience. While many basic commands such as 'sit,' 'stay,' and 'down' are relatively simple to instill, the command that tends to pose the greatest challenge is 'come,' also known as recall. It demands that a dog respond immediately, regardless of distractions in its environment.
Why Is 'Come' So Difficult to Train?
- High-Level Distraction Control: Dogs are often highly stimulated by sights, scents, and other animals. Teaching recall means overcoming their instinct to explore these distractions.
- Reliance on Trust and Reinforcement: The command requires dogs to trust that returning will lead to a positive outcome, not punishment.
- Contextual Variability: Unlike commands given in a controlled setting, 'come' must be obeyed across various environments—parks, streets, or around other dogs.
- Delayed Reinforcement: The reward doesn’t always happen immediately, especially if the dog must travel a distance to return.
Strategies to Successfully Train Recall
Owners and trainers use a series of proven techniques to improve recall training. These methods include:
- Starting Indoors: Begin in a quiet room to limit distractions.
- Positive Reinforcement: Use treats, praise, or toys every time the dog responds correctly.
- Gradual Distraction Increase: Slowly add complexity by moving outdoors or introducing noises and other stimuli.
- High-Value Rewards: Use rewards the dog absolutely loves—like chicken or favorite toys—for the best response.
- Practice on Long Leashes: These allow freedom and safety to train recall in open spaces.
Factors That Influence Recall Training Success
- Breed Traits: Some breeds (like hounds or terriers) are more independent and may need more intensive training for recall.
- Trainer Expertise: Skilled trainers with experience in behavior modification often achieve better results.
- Consistency and Patience: Regular practice reinforces learning and builds stronger habits.
Types of Training Programs for Recall
The recall command is often a major component of multiple dog training formats including:
- Private Lessons: Provide personalized attention and work on specific issues like recall.
- Group Classes: Help with social distractions and offer structured repetition practice.
- Boot Camps: Immersive programs that prioritize obedience foundations including recall under difficult scenarios.
- Online Courses: Offer flexible and scalable instruction to reinforce recall at home.
Recall-Specific Courses and Tools
Several online programs dedicate portions of their curriculum to building strong recall. These include:
- SpiritDog Training: Focuses on distraction-proof recall with positive methods ($49–$99).
- Brain Training for Dogs: This course includes modules to address advanced obedience like recall ($67).
- Clicker Training: Helps reinforce instant responses through sound-based feedback.
Common Mistakes During Recall Training
- Calling the Dog to Punish: If a dog receives punishment after returning, it learns not to come back.
- Repeating the Command: Saying 'come' multiple times weakens the command’s urgency and clarity.
- Inconsistent Rewards: Variable reinforcement makes the behavior less dependable.
Long-Term Benefits of Mastering Recall
- Safety: A reliable recall can prevent accidents in traffic or other dangerous situations.
- Freedom: Dogs can enjoy off-leash activities safely when dependable recall is in place.
- Stronger Bond: Building trust through recall fosters a closer relationship between dog and owner.
In conclusion, teaching your dog to come on command is challenging but essential for safety, social engagement, and freedom. With structured, consistent practice and the proper reinforcements, even the most stubborn dogs can learn this vital skill.
