Teaching your dog to come when called—also known as a recall—is one of the most important skills any dog guardian can master with their pup. A reliable recall makes is a crucial safety measure in potentially dangerous situations. However, many well-meaning dog families inadvertently make mistakes that hinder their dog’s progress or create confusion during recall training.

If you’ve been struggling to get your dog to come back reliably, you might be falling victim to some common missteps. Here are three big mistakes people make when teaching a recall—and information on how you can avoid them to help your dog excel!

1. Using Punishment

One of the most common mistakes is inadvertently associating recall with negative experiences. It might seem obvious not to shout or punish your dog, but many people unintentionally send mixed signals that discourage their dog from reliably returning.

For instance, imagine you’re at the park and your dog ignores you the first few times you call them (note: this is a clear indication that your dog is not yet ready for off leash recall practice). Once they finally come, you angrily scold them for taking too long or grab them roughly to leash them up. While this might relieve your immediate frustration, it’s counterproductive in the long run. Dogs associate your reaction with their last action; in this case, coming back to you. If returning to you feels punitive, they’ll be less likely to do it next time. The other danger here is that it risks deteriorating your relationship with your dog.

How to Avoid This: Always make coming to you a positive experience, even if it wasn’t instantaneous. Reinforce your dog with praise, treats, or play every time they respond to your call. As you improve you’ll want to change your criteria to set your dog up to come quickly and to reinforce only these fast, fluent responses. By ensuring that recall is tied to good things, your dog will be more enthusiastic about responding to your cue.

2. Calling Your Dog Only When Something ‘Bad’ Happens

Another frequent mistake is calling your dog exclusively in situations they perceive as undesirable. For example, many owners call their dogs only to end playtime, put on a leash, give medication, or leave a fun environment. Over time, your dog learns to associate the recall cue (example: “come!” or their name) with the end of enjoyment—and naturally, they start avoiding it or ignoring your call.

Imagine being at a party and someone repeatedly approaches to interrupt your fun and drag you home. That’s how it feels for your dog if the recall cue always signals the end of play or freedom.

How to Avoid This: Call your dog to you often during positive, low-pressure situations. During playtime, call them periodically, reinforce them generously when they come, and then let them go back to playing. This teaches your dog that responding to you doesn’t always mean the fun is over. Mix recall into their daily routine in neutral or happy circumstances, so they don’t begin associating it solely with unwelcome results.

3. Moving Too Quickly in Training

Training a solid recall doesn’t happen overnight. Unfortunately, many pet owners expect their dog to become proficient at the skill too quickly, progressing to challenging environments before the behavior is fully fluent. Recall requires consistency, repetition, and gradual exposure to distance and (separately) distractions.

For example, if you’ve only practiced recall at home, it’s unrealistic to expect your dog to come back reliably at a busy off-leash park filled with other dogs, squirrels, and unfamiliar smells. Skipping steps in the training process leads to confusion or failure, which can hurt your dog’s confidence and make the behavior less reliable.

How to Avoid This: Break recall training into manageable stages and gradually increase difficulty and (separately) distance. Start in a quiet, distraction-free environment like your living room or fenced backyard. Once your dog responds reliably there, begin practicing in settings with mild distractions, such as a quiet park on a leash or long line. Slowly work up to more challenging scenarios, like areas with other dogs or off-leash situations, but only when you’re confident your dog is ready. Remember also to only raise one criteria at a time. Focus either on distance (how far you are from your dog when you call) or distractions (competition with environmental reinforcers–aka the great outdoors, and/or anything distracting inside like food, other pets, company, novel sounds or smells)/ Be patient—it’s better to take your time and build a strong foundation than rush the process and risk setbacks.

Tips for Teaching a Reliable Recall

Now that you know some of the most common mistakes, here are a few general tips to help you succeed in teaching recall:

1. Use High-Value Rewards: For recall training, use treats or reinforcers that your dog absolutely loves—something special that they’ll only get for coming when called.
2. Make It a Game: Dogs love having fun. Turn recall into an exciting game by calling your dog in an enthusiastic tone, running away to encourage them to chase you, or mixing in a playful gesture. This helps build a positive association with the cue. Alternatively you toss a treat away and as your dog starts coming back to you give your recall cue. This way you begin to associate the cue with the recall behavior.
3. Be Consistent: Always use the same cue  (e.g., “here!”), and avoid calling your dog when you’re uncertain if they’ll respond. Calling them repeatedly without reinforcement only serves to weaken the cue.
4. Set Them Up for Success: Avoid practicing recall in situations where you know your dog is likely to fail, like a crowded park. Build their skills incrementally, just like any other training behavior. Start working indoors, then graduate to outside on a long leash (biothane is recommend and avoid retractable leashes!). Practice in sets of 3-5 and always (always!) reinforce your dog coming to you!

Conclusion

Teaching your dog to come when called is a vital skill that requires patience, consistency, and understanding of how dogs learn. By avoiding common mistakes—such as using punishment, turning recall into a negative experience, or rushing the training process—you’ll set your dog up for success and create a stronger bond in the process. Remember, recall isn’t just about “blind obedience”; it’s about trust and communication and enhancing your relationship with your dog!

With the right approach, your dog will eagerly come running every time you call—tail wagging and ready for whatever comes next. After all, who wouldn’t want that? Happy training!

 

As much as we love spending time with our furry companions, there are times when we need to leave them at home alone. For some dogs, this can be an overwhelming and stressful experience that leads to separation anxiety. Dog separation anxiety is a common issue that can affect dogs of all breeds and ages, causing them to exhibit behaviors such as excessive barking, chewing, or even destructive actions. To help your beloved pet feel more secure and at ease, it’s important to understand the root causes of separation anxiety and take actionable steps to address it. In this blog post, we’ll explore dog separation anxiety in detail and share **four practical tips to ease your dog’s stress** when you’re away.

What Is Separation Anxiety?

Canine separation anxiety occurs when a dog experiences extreme distress or panic due to being left alone. This condition is more than just ‘missing their owner’—it’s a serious emotional response that can lead to unwanted behaviors and negatively impact your dog’s quality of life. Common symptoms include:

– Excessive barking, whining, or howling when left alone

– Chewing on furniture, shoes, or other objects

– Scratching or digging at doors and windows

– Pacing or restlessness

– Accidents inside the house, even if the dog is house-trained

While this behavior can be frustrating for pet parents, it’s important to realize that your dog isn’t acting out on purpose. These behaviors stem from their stress and inability to cope with being separated from you.

What Causes Separation Anxiety?

There isn’t always a clear reason why some dogs develop separation anxiety, but a few potential causes include:

1. Change in Routine: Dogs are creatures of habit, and a sudden change in their daily schedule (such as a new job causing you to be away more often) can trigger separation anxiety.
2. Past Trauma or Rehoming: Dogs rescued from shelters or those with previous abandonment experiences may be more prone to anxiety.
3. Over-Attachment: Dogs who are excessively dependent on their owners may struggle to self-soothe when alone.
4. Changes in Family Dynamics: New family members, a move, or the loss of someone in the household can contribute to stress.

4 Tips to Ease Dog Separation Anxiety

If your dog struggles with separation anxiety, don’t worry—there are ways to help them feel more comfortable and secure. Here are four expert tips to ease your dog’s stress and prevent unwanted behaviors.

 1. Gradually Train for Alone Time

One of the best ways to reduce separation anxiety is by training your dog to be comfortable alone. Start by leaving your dog alone for very short periods and gradually increase the time as they get more accustomed to your absence.

For example, start by just stepping into the next room. Remember not to block their access to you as this may increase anxiety. Slowly and gradually build time varying between shorter and longer periods so that the next step isn’t always more difficult. Be patient during this process—it may take weeks or months for some dogs to adjust.

2. Create a Safe and Calm Environment

Providing a secure and relaxing space can help your dog feel less anxious when you’re away. Consider setting up a designated area with:

– A cozy dog bed

– Favorite toys or puzzle feeders to keep them occupied

– Calming scents like lavender or pheromone diffusers designed for dogs

Additionally, leave the TV or soft music playing to create ambient noise and reduce the feeling of loneliness.

Note, for dogs diagnosed with SA or ID (isolation distress) the best option is to suspend absences as continued exposure to absences will only increase anxiety.

 3. Practice a Consistent Routine

Dogs thrive on routine—a predictable schedule can make them feel safe and reduce anxiety. Establish regular times for feeding, walks, and playtime, so your dog knows what to expect each day.

Before leaving the house, take your dog for a walk or engage them in a high-energy play session. Expelling excess energy can make them more likely to rest and relax while you’re gone.

Note: exercise is not synonymous with relaxation. While a good exercise routine is an important component of a well rounded care plan, exercise alone will not resolve diagnosed SA/ID.

 4. Use Interactive Toys and Treats

Interactive toys and treats can act as great distractions for your dog when you’re not around. Puzzle toys filled with peanut butter, kibble, or dog treats can keep your dog engaged for hours and provide mental stimulation and enrichment.

Encouraging your pet to focus on a fun or tasty activity helps shift their attention away from your absence and reduces potential stress. You can even rotate toys to prevent boredom and keep things exciting.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your dog truly suffers from separation anxiety which persists or worsens despite your best efforts, it may be time to consult with a professional dog trainer/behavior consultant and your veterinarian. In many cases, dogs who suffer from separation anxiety disorders require medication plus specialized behavior modification training in order to manage thier stress effectively.

Separation anxiety can be tough—for both you and your furry friend. However, with patience, training, and the right strategies, you can help your dog feel more secure and at ease when you’re away. By gradually increasing alone time, creating a safe environment, maintaining a routine, and using interactive toys, you’re setting your pup up for success and peace of mind.

Remember, overcoming separation anxiety is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate small victories, and always approach your pet with love and understanding. You’ve got this!

 

When it comes to training, whether we’re talking about pets, employees, children, or even ourselves, positive reinforcement stands as one of the most effective tools for learning and behavior modification.

But here’s the secret trick that makes positive reinforcement truly powerful: the difference between a ‘cue’ and a ‘command.’ It’s a distinction that not only improves results but also fosters better communication and a stronger relationship in whatever context you’re applying it.

In this blog post, we’ll break down the essence of positive reinforcement, uncover the fundamental differences between cues and commands, and explain how this secret trick can take your training efforts to a whole new level.

What is Positive Reinforcement?

Before diving into the specifics of cues and commands, let’s quickly define positive reinforcement. At its core, positive reinforcement is the process of encouraging a desired behavior by adding something in order to increase behavior. In essence, the behavior you want is ‘reinforced’ with something positive, making it more likely to happen again in the future.

For example:

– Praising a child for tidying their room.

– Offering a treat to your dog for sitting on cue.

– Giving employees recognition for meeting a deadline.

It’s not about forcing compliance; rather, it’s about building a positive association with desired actions. This distinction becomes critical when we talk about cues and commands.

What Is the Difference Between a ‘Cue’ and a ‘Command’?

The terms ‘cue’ and ‘command’ are often used interchangeably in everyday life, but they represent two very different communication methods, especially when applying positive reinforcement.

1. What is a Cue?

A cue is an invitation, signal, or trigger that gently prompts an action or behavior. It’s a way of communicating with someone in a calm and neutral manner, leaving them the freedom to engage in the behavior willingly. A cue feels non-threatening and cooperative. A cue is a “green light” to indicate that reinforcement is available!

For instance, when you say ‘sit’ to your dog, you’re offering a cue. You’re not demanding that your dog sit; rather, you’re signaling the desired action, and the dog chooses to comply, knowing there may be a reinforcer available.

2. What is a Command?

A command, on the other hand, is a directive given with the expectation of obedience. It implies a power dynamic where the individual or animal must comply, sometimes under pressure or threat of consequences. Commands are often delivered forcefully, leaving little room for learning or reinforcement through positive means.

For instance, shouting “Sit!” at your dog is a command. If the dog doesn’t respond, you may feel frustrated or resort to punitive measures. Commands are typically associated with control, and they can weaken the relationship between the trainer and the learner.

Why a Cue is Better Than a Command in Positive Reinforcement

The secret trick to making positive reinforcement work well lies in replacing the traditional ‘command-and-conquer’ approach with the more collaborative ‘cue-and-reinforce’ approach.

Here’s why cues make a difference:

1. Cues Create a Positive Learning Environment

Using cues feels inviting and builds trust. When training with cues, both the teacher and learner work together toward a shared goal. The learner knows they’re not under pressure, allowing them to focus better and respond enthusiastically. It turns training into a game rather than a chore.

2. Foster Choice, Not Fear

Cues give the learner a choice, which strengthens their confidence and autonomy. On the other hand, commands can breed fear or resentment, especially if they’re paired with punishment when compliance doesn’t happen immediately.

For example, saying ‘Please put away your toys to a child (a soft cue) inspires intrinsic motivation compared to ‘Clean up now, or no TV!’ (an ultimatum-style command).

3. Cues Work Well with Long-Term Behavior Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement relies on consistency and patience. When paired with cues rather than commands, the behavior is more likely to stick because the learner associates the action with positive outcomes rather than stress or tension.

4. Strengthen Relationships

Whether you’re working with a pet, a colleague, or your own child, cues build a foundation of mutual respect. Commands risk turning relationships into power struggles, eroding trust over time, while cues invite cooperation and understanding.

How to Use Cues for Effective Positive Reinforcement

Ready to apply the secret trick in your training or teaching efforts? Follow these tips:

1. Be Clear and Consistent

Make sure your cue is simple, consistent, and easily understood. For instance, saying “sit” in the same tone every time ensures your dog doesn’t get confused. Similarly, a clear direction like “Please start by reviewing the report” works much better for employees than a generalized or vague command.

2. Pair the Cue with Positive Reinforcement

Always follow your cue with positive reinforcement when the desired behavior occurs. This may include praise, treats, other reinforcers, or even a simple “thank you.” By associating the cue with something reinforcing, the learner is more motivated to respond positively.

3. Avoid Repeating

It’s easy to fall into the “broken record” trap—repeating the cue over and over (e.g., “Sit, sit, sit!”). This can dilute its meaning and lead to frustration. Instead, give the cue once, remain calm, and reinforce when the behavior happens. If there’s no response, figure out if the learner needs more practice or clarification–aka go back to the drawing board and make it easier to be successful.

4. Practice Patience

Remember, cues don’t produce instant obedience—nor should they. Be patient and allow the learner time to process and act. Over time, with consistent reinforcement, the desired response will become more automatic.

The Bottom Line: Choose Cues Over Commands

The ultimate secret to positive reinforcement is to shift your mindset: think cues, not commands. Remember, a cue is an empowering invitation to cooperate, while a command demands obedience. By focusing on cues, you’ll create a more positive, productive, and enjoyable learning environment for everyone involved.

Whether you’re teaching your dog a new trick, guiding your team through a project, or encouraging your child to develop good habits, this subtle yet profound shift can make all the difference. Cues create opportunities for learning with trust and goodwill, while commands risk instilling fear or resistance.

So the next time you’re working on positive reinforcement, ask yourself: Am I issuing commands, or am I offering cues? It’s a simple but powerful question that can transform how you train, teach, and communicate every single day.

Ready to transform your training with positive reinforcement? Start incorporating cues into your approach today, and watch as behaviors improve, relationships grow stronger, and your results soar. Let us know how this secret trick works for you in the comments!**