SPORTING ANSWERS
Recall training for puppies
GUNDOG TRAINING
Q I have started training my young labrador recall, along with the other basics. I have read about various methods, many of which recommend allowing a puppy to ‘be a puppy’ and only play, but there are many situations where this simply isn’t safe. I feel I need to be able to recall. What is the most effective training method for recall?
A The best way to train recall is to begin when your puppy is very young. They will rely on you for security and safety, so rarely range too far.
Handlers mistakenly think that this means the puppy is trained, but as the dog becomes more confident, it will range further. It is not always safe for a puppy to range. A common misconception is that the dog is being naughty and ignoring recall, but it has never learned it around distractions.
When the puppy is small, start them in an environment with no distractions. Make yourself the most fun thing and recall them to play with you. Before they
