Putting a leash on a dog immediately after a successful recall command during training can have some unintended negative consequences. So you have had some success practising and you and your dog are totally engaged with each other and the recall cue you are using for example "Come" is working well. Your dog comes back to you successfully and then you put his or her leash on the minute they come back, as we understand, to secure your dog. But is this the right response from you? Let us explore that.
Here are a few reasons why it might not be a good idea:
Negative Association: If a dog learns that coming to you when called always results in being put on a leash and the end of fun or freedom, they may start to associate the recall command with a negative outcome. This can make the dog less likely to respond to the recall command in the future.
End of Play: Often, putting the leash on signals to a dog that playtime or their current activity is over. If a dog enjoys being off-leash and playing, they might become reluctant to come when called if they anticipate that it will always end their fun.
Reduced Motivation: Dogs are more likely to respond to your cues (commands) if they perceive a positive outcome. If recall always leads to something a dog doesn’t like, their motivation to obey the recall cue will reduce.
So how can you Improve Recall Training?
To avoid these issues and improve your dog’s recall, consider the following tips:
Vary the Outcome: Sometimes, after your dog comes to you, give them a treat or praise, then let them go back to playing. This way, they don't always associate recall with the end of fun.
Positive Rewarding: Reward your dog with high-value treats, toys, some playtime for example tugging on a toy or ball. Praise them every time they successfully come when called. Make the recall cue a positive and rewarding experience.
Practice Short Recalls: During training sessions, call your dog to you, reward them, and then release them to continue what they were doing. This reinforces the idea that coming to you doesn’t always mean the end of their freedom.
Gradual Leash Introduction: Occasionally, put the leash on your dog, give them a treat, and then immediately take the leash off and let them continue playing. This helps reduce any negative association with the leash. Lots of practice here.
End on a Positive Note: Make sure the last recall of any practice session is followed by something your dog enjoys, such as a favourite game or some extra playtime, even if you put the leash on afterwards.
By including these practices, you can help ensure that your dog views the recall cue positively and remains responsive to it, even when a leash is involved.
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