Recall Training Exercises - Bounce Back
This Blog May Include Affiliate Links Which Pay A Commission On Eligible Purchases.When it comes to recall training, there are lots of different things you need to teach your dog: how to respond to your cue, getting them to come back with urgency, stopping them from getting distracted on their way back to you, teaching your dog to come away from distractions, and so much more. All of these different aspects require different training exercises to help your dog learn them.
But one of the most important parts to teach your dog is to always orient back to you. Getting your dog to always want to come close to you will make your recall training a lot easier. I like to do this simple exercise to teach my dogs and my clients' dogs to always be coming towards me, and I call it “Bounce Back.”
Let me explain how you can include this in your training.
What is "Bounce Back"?
The "Bounce Back" exercise is designed to teach your dog to always return to you, even when they are distracted or have been sent away. This exercise not only strengthens recall but also keeps your dog engaged and attentive to you during walks and off-lead play.
What You'll Need:
A handful of treats or your dog's regular kibble
A toy if your dog prefers them to treats.
An open space (indoors or outdoors)
Steps to Follow:
Get Your Dog Excited: Start with a few treats in your hand to capture your dog's attention.
Throw a Treat: Toss one treat on the ground for your dog to sniff out and find. If it's their first time, you may need to guide them to the treat.
Walk Away: As your dog is getting that treat, take a few steps away.
Encourage Them Back: Once your dog has the treat, use playful sounds and excitement to entice them back to you. Avoid overusing their name.
Reward: When your dog returns to you, reward them with praise, play, or another treat. Show them the next treat to keep their interest high.
Repeat and Reward: Continue from step 1, throwing treats in different directions. Encourage your dog to chase them and then return to you for another reward.
Adding a Recall Cue: Once you and your dog are in a flow of throwing or dropping a treat for your dog to find, and you walking away and calling your dog to you, start to introduce your recall cue. Say your recall cue (e.g., "Come!") as your dog is running towards you.
Practice Makes Perfect: Practice this for 10 minutes regularly and watch how your dog always wants to bounce back to you.
Tips for Success:
Keep Sessions Positive: Make sure each session is fun and positive for your dog.
Use Playful Sounds: Instead of calling their name excessively, use playful sounds to get their attention.
Safety Tools: Use a long lead on your dog if you are practicing this in an open environment and if you are not 100% confident your dog is ready for off-lead freedom yet.
Gradually Increase Distance: As your dog gets better at the exercise, increase the distance you throw the treats.
Mix It Up: Vary the directions you throw the treats to keep the game exciting and unpredictable.
The "Bounce Back" exercise is a fantastic way to enhance your dog's recall training while training them to be engaged with you. By incorporating this exercise into your training routine, you can ensure that your dog always comes back to you, making outdoor activities more enjoyable and safe.
Happy training!
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