How to Teach Your Dog to Come When Called: Easy Puppy Recall Training Tips

Are you ready to teach your dog to come when called? Great news you're in the perfect stage to start. One of the most important puppy obedience tips you can follow early on is to build a strong recall foundation. It’s not just about listening, it's about safety, trust, and connection.
Why Puppy Recall Training Starts Early
Young puppies naturally want to stay close to their caretaker. If you've ever watched a litter with their mama dog in the yard, you’ve probably noticed how the pups stay nearby and rush back when called. This built-in tendency is gold for training.
However, once your pup hits adolescence, that instinct can fade. That’s why now is the ideal time to reward every return puppy recall training works best when you're consistently reinforcing good behavior from the start. By building a positive history of coming when called, you’ll be ready for the distractions and independence that come later.
Your Step-by-Step Puppy Recall Training Guide
To get started, all you need are some yummy treats and a quiet place to practice. Here's how to begin recall training with your puppy over three simple days:
Day One: Build the Basics Indoors
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Stand a foot or two away from your puppy.
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Show a treat or make an inviting gesture.
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When your pup comes to you, reward them with a treat and praise.
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Repeat about 30 times throughout the day to build a strong association.
Day Two: Practice in a New Space
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Choose a different room in your house.
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Ask your puppy to come using the same gesture or cue.
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Reward them when they come to you.
Day Three: Take It Outside
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Move to the yard for a bit more distraction.
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Call your puppy to come.
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Celebrate their success with a treat and happy energy.
Final Thoughts on Teaching Recall
Mastering recall is one of the top puppy obedience tips you'll ever use. It’s a life skill that can prevent accidents, build trust, and strengthen your bond. By following these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to teaching your dog to come when called no matter where you are.
Start small, reward big, and keep it fun. Happy training!
Author bio:
Written by The Homeschool Dog Expert Team
Our team of certified trainers and behaviorists brings over 50 years of combined experience, and every expert is personally vetted, Fear Free certified, and deeply committed to helping dogs (and their people) thrive at home. Need help with your pup? Talk to a dog expert today
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