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Teach a Recall That Sticks: Your Step-by-Step Guide (Week 1 - The Foundation Starts at Home)

  • Chelsie Grieve
  • Apr 10
  • 4 min read

Updated: May 16

Ready to build a recall that actually works? Let’s take it one step at a time—starting right inside your house.


Restart your recall training in your home with a new command.

If you’re here, chances are you’ve experienced the classic “they only come back when they feel like it” moment. Maybe your dog bolts toward another dog, a squirrel, or just… freedom. And no matter how many times you shout “COME HERE!”—they’re off.


Sound familiar?


Before we can even think about recall in the park, the field, or around distractions, we need to build something bulletproof. Something that’s actually trained, not just hoped for.


And it starts here—in your home.

Let’s Get Real: This Isn’t a Quick Fix


We live in a world where everything is instant—next-day delivery, fast food, binge-watching whole seasons in one night. But dog training doesn’t work like that.


Your dog isn’t broken. They’re just untrained.

And recall? That’s a life-saving skill. It takes time, layers, and commitment. But the great news is—you can start today, right in your living room, and have fun doing it.


Start Fresh: Choose a Brand-New Cue


If your current cue (“Come”, “Here”, or yelling their name in desperation) has been used too often without reward—or even used when your dog was in trouble—it’s time for a fresh start.


Choose a cue that feels exciting and different. Try:

  • “Quick!”

  • “This way!”

  • “Zoom!”

  • Or even a whistle (paired with a verbal cue in case you forget it one day)


Tip: I recommend the ACME dog training whistle (211½ it's louder) if you go that route. The pitch is always consistent, so you can replace it and your dog will still recognise the sound.

This is an affiliate link, I will receive commission at no cost to yourself.

Building Meaning: What the Cue Actually Means


At this stage, your new recall cue means nothing to your dog. So let’s teach them that it means something amazing is about to happen.


You’ll want:

  • High-value treats (think roast chicken, cheese, liver paste)

  • Toys your dog goes crazy for

  • Play or praise, if that’s what your dog loves most


You’re about to teach your dog:

“When you hear this sound, get to me FAST and good things happen!”


Week One: In-Home Recall Training Plan


We’re staying in the house this week. No distractions, no long lines, no stress.


Day 1–2: Charging the Cue

  • Stand before your dog.

  • Say your dog’s name to get their attention.

  • The moment they look at you, say your new cue (e.g. “Quick!”)

  • Immediately throw a treat to your feet or reward with fuss/play.


Repeat this multiple times throughout the day. Keep it short and sweet—5 reps here and there is plenty.


REMEMBER: You’re building a positive association. Right now, they’re not coming to you on cue—they’re just learning it predicts a reward.


Day 3–4: Add Movement

  • Say their name.

  • When they look at you, take a few steps back as you say your cue.

  • As they move towards you, mark with “YES!” or a clicker.

  • Reward when they arrive.


Why step back? Movement encourages dogs to follow—it’s more fun than standing still like a statue!


Day 5–6: Increase Distance in the House

By now, your dog understands the cue inside one room. Let’s start stretching that distance, still keeping it distraction-free.


If you have a partner to help:

  • Have them gently hold your dog in a hallway or separate room.

  • Walk away, go out of sight if possible.

  • Call your dog’s name, give the recall cue, and get ready to party when they find you!


Training solo? No problem:

Try one of these easy setups:

  • Toss a treat or toy down a hallway: While your dog chases it, move quickly to a new spot in another room. As soon as they’re done and look around—call them!

  • Use a stay or wait cue if your dog knows it: Ask for a short stay, walk a few steps away, then release them with your recall cue.

  • Hide around the corner: Call their name and cue once—then wait! When they find you, celebrate.


The key is to create distance and a little bit of challenge, without letting things get frustrating.


Day 7: Add Toy & Play Rewards


By now, you’ll have a handful of great reps where your dog runs to you when they hear their cue.


Let’s make it even more exciting:

  • Try rewarding with a game of tug.

  • Use their favourite toy.

  • Play a quick chase game when they arrive.


Why mix it up? Because in the real world, food won’t always cut it. You want your dog thinking: “I wonder what fun thing I’ll get this time!”


Your Week 1 Checklist:


  1. I’ve chosen a new cue that feels fresh

  2. I’ve charged the cue with high-value rewards

  3. I’ve started using it with movement and increased distance

  4. I’ve practiced in multiple rooms

  5. I’ve added toy/play/fuss rewards into the mix

  6. I’ve kept training short, fun, and consistent


Common Mistakes to Avoid in Week One:


🚫 Don’t repeat the cue over and over—one clear “Quick!” is enough

🚫 Don’t use your cue if you’re not ready to reward

🚫 Don’t rush to outdoor practice—your dog isn’t ready yet

🚫 Don’t get frustrated—this is about building trust, not perfection


What’s Next?


Once your dog is flying around the house to get to you, it’s time to take your recall outside.


👉 In the next blog, “Longline Basics: How to Start Outdoor Recall Training the Right Way,” I’ll show you how to:

  • Choose the right long line

  • Train in the garden safely

  • Handle distance and distractions

  • Know when your dog is ready for more freedom







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