At San Diego Goldens, one of our top priorities is setting puppies up for success — not just in the home, but out in the world. And if there’s one skill we believe every dog should be taught early and consistently, it’s recall — coming when called.
Reliable recall training can literally save your dog’s life. Whether you’re at the park, on a hike, or in your backyard, having your dog come back to you — the first time you call — is essential for safety, control, and peace of mind.
In this post, we’ll share why recall is so important, how we begin shaping this behavior from the time our puppies are small, and how you can continue reinforcing it at home.
🚨 Why Recall Matters
Recall isn’t just about obedience — it’s about safety.
A strong recall can prevent a dog from:
- Running into the road
- Approaching another dog or stranger uninvited
- Getting lost on a trail
- Chasing wildlife or livestock
- Eating something dangerous on the ground
We tell our puppy families: Recall is one of the most important life skills you can teach your dog. It gives you the ability to call your dog back to you, no matter what’s going on around them.
🐶 How We Start Recall Training Early
In our program, we begin recall foundations from the moment puppies are mobile. Using positive reinforcement, we pair a cheerful voice with treats, praise, and a lot of repetition.
Here’s how we build early recall:
- We use the puppy’s name in a happy tone and reward any attention they give us.
- As they grow, we add phrases like “Come!” or “Here!” with food, toys, or affection as a reward.
- We practice in short, fun sessions so the puppies associate recall with excitement and connection — never punishment.
- We keep it playful. Games like “puppy ping-pong” (where two people take turns calling the puppy across a room or yard) are fantastic.
Our goal is to create a dog who wants to come to you — every time — because they know something good always follows.
🏡 Continuing Recall at Home: Tips for Success
Once your puppy comes home, it’s important to continue what we’ve started. Consistency, patience, and positivity are key.
✅ Use a Happy, Consistent Cue
Choose a single word or phrase (like “Come!”, “Here!”, or “Let’s go!”) and use it consistently. Always say it in an upbeat, inviting tone.
✅ Reward Every Time (At First)
When your dog comes to you — reward! Use treats, toys, praise, or a quick play session. Make coming back to you the best part of their day.
✅ Practice in Low-Distraction Environments First
Start indoors or in a fenced yard before trying recall at the dog park or on a trail. Build success before adding distractions.
✅ Never Call to Punish
If your dog knows that coming to you sometimes means the fun ends or they get scolded, they’ll hesitate next time. Always make recall positive — even if they were being naughty before.
✅ Use Long Lines for Safety
When training outside, especially in open areas, we recommend a long training leash (15–30 feet). It gives your pup freedom while keeping them safe during the learning process.
🐕🦺 Making Recall a Lifelong Habit
Even once your dog “gets it,” recall isn’t a one-and-done skill. It’s something to practice regularly, in different environments, and at various distances and distractions.
Play recall games. Call your dog randomly during the day and surprise them with a treat or toy. Make it fun, and make it count.
In Closing
As breeders, we see firsthand how crucial recall is — not only for your dog’s safety, but for the bond you build together. A dog that comes when called is a dog who trusts, listens, and can confidently enjoy more freedom in life.
If you’re a new puppy family, we encourage you to start early, keep it fun, and never hesitate to reach out if you need support. We’re always here to guide you — because your puppy’s success is our success too.
Wishing you many happy (and safe) adventures!