Countryside recall training tips

Summer is a busy time for countryside walks, but it is also when livestock and wildlife can be particularly vulnerable, says Ben McFarlane, dog training expert at ACME Kennels.

Even well-behaved dogs can instinctively chase animals if something catches their attention, so owners must ensure their dogs are always under control, especially when exploring unfamiliar areas on holiday where they may not know about livestock nearby.

The new livestock protection laws are a reminder that failing to do so can have serious consequences, including fines and penalties for owners. If your dog doesn’t have a reliable recall, it shouldn’t be off lead around livestock – ultimately, before letting a dog off the lead this summer, owners should be confident they will return when called.

Good recall takes patience and practice, but it is one of the most important skills you can teach to keep dogs, livestock and other countryside users safe because it isn’t just a trick, it’s a safety skill.

Most dogs can develop a dependable recall within three to six months, depending on their age and previous training, with regular positive practice.

Six ways to improve your dog’s recall:

1. Start training early: Puppies often learn recall more quickly, but older dogs can also develop reliable recall through consistent practice.
2. Keep dogs on a lead until recall is reliable: A long training lead allows dogs to explore while owners remain in control, reducing the risk of them approaching livestock.
3. Practise in different environments: Gradually introducing more distractions helps dogs learn to respond reliably before they are trusted off lead in the countryside.
4. Reward every successful recall: Using treats, praise or toys helps dogs associate returning to their owner with positive outcomes, making them more likely to respond in the future.
5. Use a consistent command or whistle: Using the same cue every time helps avoid confusion. A whistle can be particularly effective because it carries further than a voice and sounds the same every time.
6. Never punish your dog for returning too slowly: Even if a dog is slow to come back, owners should avoid punishment, as this can create negative associations with recall and make future responses less reliable.