Teaching a dog to respond reliably when called is vital for their safety and wellbeing. Canine training expert Sam Hoke has shared a straightforward approach to improve recall skills, recently showcased in a popular TikTok video. Demonstrating with his Labrador, Mo, Hoke emphasizes the importance of making the recall experience rewarding for dogs.
In the video, Hoke begins by addressing a common frustration for dog owners: “Have you ever called your dog and they completely ignored you or ran away? There’s a cure for that.” He explains that the key to successful recall lies in how owners interact with their pets when calling them.
Hoke suggests that owners should not call their dogs without something positive to offer. “If your friends text you every day and nine times out of ten it’s to complain, how long until you stop responding?” he asks. His point is clear: dogs need to associate their name being called with something enjoyable.
To implement this strategy, Hoke advises calling Mo periodically to provide rewards or affection, rather than just for compliance. He notes, “This builds a positive association with coming when called. I’m building up the habit in places that matter, like the park.” This method encourages dogs to view their owner as a fun and rewarding presence.
While Hoke’s technique is effective, he acknowledges that consistency is key, especially in distracting environments. He explains that when Mo is not paying attention, either he or his partner, Lia, calls him over without moving towards him. Instead, they step backwards, prompting Mo’s instinct to chase. “And when he comes to us, boom, we reward him,” Hoke adds.
Additionally, when Mo responds correctly, Hoke makes sure to touch his collar before giving a treat. This practice helps reinforce that a collar grab does not signal the end of playtime, but rather a continuation of fun. Hoke concludes with an encouraging message for dog owners: “Be the friend your dog wants to come to, the one who calls them over for treats and fun. Not the one who’s always dragging them out of the park and complaining.”
This approach not only strengthens the bond between dogs and their owners but also enhances safety by ensuring dogs reliably return when called. With Hoke’s insights, many pet enthusiasts can look forward to more successful training sessions and a happier companionship with their furry friends.