Teaching a dog to respond reliably to commands is an essential aspect of pet ownership. Canine training expert Sam Hoke has recently shared effective strategies for improving dog recall, emphasizing the importance of positive reinforcement. Through a viral video on TikTok, Hoke demonstrated how to ensure that dogs respond promptly when called, a skill vital for their safety and well-being.
Hoke highlighted that many pet owners face challenges in getting their dogs to come when called. He stated, “Have you ever called your dog and they completely ignored you or ran away? There’s a cure for that.” This revelation sets the stage for his practical tips on fostering a strong recall response in pets.
Transforming Recall into a Rewarding Experience
Central to Hoke’s approach is the idea of making recall a positive experience for the dog. He explained, “Step one – stop calling your dog when you have nothing to offer.” This strategy aims to ensure that every time a dog is called, it is accompanied by something enjoyable, whether that be treats, affection, or playtime. Hoke uses an analogy to illustrate his point: “If your friends text you every day and nine times out of ten it’s to complain, how long until you stop responding?”
To cultivate a strong recall habit, he suggests calling the dog to offer rewards rather than just for compliance. Hoke frequently calls his Labrador, Mo, simply to praise him or give him a treat. This method builds a positive association with the command to come when called. Hoke stated, “I’m building up the habit in places that matter, like the park.”
Despite the simplicity of this technique, Hoke acknowledges that consistency in training is crucial. Dogs can easily become distracted, especially in stimulating environments. To tackle this, he and his partner, Lia, employ a tactic where they call Mo without moving towards him. Instead, they step back, which triggers Mo’s natural instinct to chase. When he comes to them, they reward him immediately.
Hoke also shared an additional tip: when rewarding Mo, they make sure to touch his collar first. This reinforces the idea that grabbing his collar does not mean the end of playtime, which can alleviate anxiety around the recall command. He concluded, “So be the friend your dog wants to come to, the one who calls them over for treats and fun. Not the one who’s always dragging them out of the park and complaining.”
Building Stronger Connections Through Training
Hoke’s insights emphasize the significance of the bond between pet and owner, suggesting that training should be a positive and enjoyable experience for both. By focusing on creating a rewarding atmosphere, pet owners can foster better communication with their dogs.
As many dog owners know, proper recall can significantly enhance the overall experience of pet ownership. By implementing Hoke’s techniques, owners may find that their dogs not only respond better to commands but also enjoy spending time with them more. The joy of having a well-trained dog that reliably comes when called brings a sense of accomplishment and strengthens the relationship between pet and owner.
In conclusion, the journey of training a dog is filled with challenges but also rewarding moments. With expert advice from figures like Sam Hoke, pet owners can enhance their training methods, leading to happier, more responsive pets.
