Training Recall for Doodles ("Come")

Come!

Training Lesson Plan for Recall (“Come”) for Doodle Dogs

Objective:Teach your Doodle dog (whether it's a Labradoodle, Bernedoodle, Sheepadoodle, or other) to reliably respond to the recall command “Come”. This lesson will provide a solid foundation for your dog to return to you, regardless of distractions, ensuring their safety and strengthening your bond.

Why Recall (“Come”) is Critical for Doodles

Recall is one of the most important commands for any dog, but especially for intelligent and active dogs like Doodles. Doodles are naturally curious, energetic, and social, and their curiosity often leads them to wander or get distracted. A strong “Come” command ensures:

• Safety: If your Doodle gets off-leash in an unsecured area (such as a park or open field), reliable recall can prevent dangerous situations (e.g., running into traffic, chasing after animals, or approaching unknown people or dogs).

• Increased Freedom: With a solid recall, your Doodle can enjoy off-leash activities, like hiking, at dog parks, or in your backyard, knowing that they will return when called.

• Strengthened Bond: Consistently recalling your dog builds trust. It signals that coming back to you results in something good (treats, praise, or playtime), which increases their willingness to engage with you.

• Better Control and Focus: Recall is a foundational command that enhances your dog’s overall obedience and focus on you, making it easier to teach other commands like “sit,” “stay,” or “heel.”

When to Start Training Recall

The best time to start training recall is as early as possible (around 8-10 weeks old), especially for puppies, as they are highly receptive to learning at this age. However, adult Doodles can also be trained in recall with patience and consistency, though it may take a little longer to solidify the behavior.

Training Plan for Recall (“Come”)

Materials Needed:

• High-value treats (something extra tasty, like small pieces of chicken, cheese, or special dog treats)

• A long leash or training lead (for control during outdoor training)

• Clicker (optional but useful for marking behavior)

• A quiet, distraction-free space to start (indoor or in your backyard)

• Patience and consistency

Lesson 1: Introduction to the “Come” Command

Goal: To teach your Doodle to associate the word “Come” with a positive outcome and start practicing recall in a low-distraction environment.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Get Your Dog’s Attention:

   • Start in a calm and familiar environment where your Doodle can focus on you. You can begin indoors or in a fenced backyard. Make sure there are few distractions, especially during the first few sessions.

   • Call your Doodle’s name to get their attention.

2. Introduce the Command:

   • Once your dog is looking at you, say the word “Come” in a cheerful, encouraging tone.

   • Make the sound of the treat bag or have the treat visible to create a positive connection with the word. You can hold the treat in your hand or use a toy to create excitement.

3. Use the Treat to Lure Them:

   • Step backward or squat down to encourage your dog to come toward you. Dogs naturally follow movement, so this will often prompt them to approach you.

   • If they’re hesitant, gently call their name and show them the treat, encouraging them to come closer.

   • As soon as your dog moves toward you, praise them enthusiastically, even if they’re just taking a few steps. Use the clicker (if you’re using one) the moment they start moving toward you.

4. Reward Immediately:

   • When your dog gets close to you, immediately reward them with the treat and offer verbal praise like “Good Come!” Petting and affection are also great reinforcements.

   • Important: Always reward the dog for starting to come toward you, even if they don’t immediately make it to you. Positive reinforcement helps them associate the command with good things.

5. Repeat the Process:

   • Practice this several times in short 5-10 minute sessions. Dogs, especially puppies, can become bored or frustrated if training sessions are too long.

   • Start with very little distance between you and your dog, then gradually increase the distance over time.

Lesson 2: Adding a Leash for Control and Distance

Goal: To practice recall with more distance and some light distractions, still maintaining full control over the dog.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Use a Long Leash:

   • Once your Doodle is responding reliably to the command with short distances, move to a long leash (15-20 feet) to give them more space to move and practice recall in a larger area.

   • This ensures that if they don’t respond right away, you have control and can reel them in gently without punishment.

2. Increase Distance Gradually:

   • Call your Doodle from a few feet away and encourage them with a treat or by moving away from them.

   • Repeat the “Come” command in different areas of your yard or a larger space.

3. Encourage Faster Recall:

   • To increase the speed of your dog’s recall, you can run backward a few steps after giving the “Come” command. Doodles are energetic and often respond well to the excitement of movement.

4. Reward with Enthusiasm:

   • When your Doodle comes to you, shower them with praise and treats. Use excited and enthusiastic language to make the reward feel like a big deal.

   • If you’re using a clicker, mark the behavior at the moment they reach you.

5. Consistent Practice:

   • Continue practicing in different settings with increasing distance. If your Doodle is distracted, call them back gently using the leash, but avoid pulling them too hard. This ensures they learn to respond to the command, not just being dragged to you.

Lesson 3: Practicing with Distractions and Outdoors

Goal: To teach recall in environments with more distractions (like parks or open fields) while maintaining focus on you.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Start with Mild Distractions:

   • Once your Doodle reliably recalls in low-distraction environments, begin to practice in areas with more distractions. This could be a quiet park or somewhere with minimal activity.

   • Start by practicing recall when your dog is sniffing or exploring, but still close enough that they can focus on you.

2. Increase the Challenge:

   • Gradually introduce more distractions, such as other dogs (on leash), moving vehicles, or people walking by. Start at a distance where your dog can still hear and focus on you, and gradually increase the difficulty as they become more reliable.

3. Use a High-Value Reward:

   • In distracting environments, offer extra high-value treats (like small pieces of chicken or something especially exciting). This will help increase motivation for your dog to come back to you, despite the distractions around them.

4. Stay Calm and Confident:

   • If your Doodle doesn’t respond right away, don’t panic. Call them back calmly using the leash, but without pulling hard or raising your voice. The goal is to keep the recall experience positive and encouraging.

   • Once your dog returns to you, reward them generously with praise and treats, reinforcing that coming back to you is always a rewarding experience.

5. Practice Regularly:

   • Recall is a skill that requires ongoing practice, especially with distractions. Continue practicing recall in various environments, gradually increasing the challenge to maintain reliability.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Dog Ignoring the Command:

   • Don’t Chase: Never chase after your dog when they don’t respond to recall. Chasing makes it a game and can reinforce the behavior of ignoring you.

   • Reinforce Consistency: Be patient, especially with younger or more distracted dogs. Keep sessions short and fun, and remember that recall is a behavior that improves with practice.

2. Dog Coming Slowly or Reluctantly:

   • Increase Motivation: Use higher-value treats or increase the excitement level of your reward. You might also incorporate a favorite toy.

   • Shorten the Distance: If your dog is hesitant, practice at shorter distances with a higher level of enthusiasm to build confidence.

3. Dog Gets Distracted in Public Areas:

   • Use a Leash: If your Doodle is easily distracted outside, use a long leash (20 feet or more) to ensure you have control. Gradually reduce reliance on the leash as their recall improves.

   • Practice Often: Frequent training sessions with increasing distractions will help your dog become more reliable in diverse environments.

Conclusion: The Importance of Recall for Doodles

A strong “Come” command is an essential life skill for any dog, but especially for Doodles, who are intelligent, active, and curious by nature. Having a reliable recall gives you control over your dog in potentially dangerous or unpredictable situations, keeps them safe, and enhances your overall relationship with them. Through patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, your Doodle will learn to come to you with enthusiasm, making outdoor adventures and everyday life more enjoyable and manageable for both of you.

With time and practice, your Doodle will begin to associate the “Come” command with positive experiences—ensuring they always return