Dog Recall Training: Why Engagement Comes Before Recall
Most people think of recall as “getting my dog to come back.” And yes, that’s an important skill. But here’s the truth: recall is much easier if your dog is already used to engaging with you first.
If we skip that step, we end up calling our dogs back over and over again. Instead, focus on building your dog’s ability to pay attention when you ask for it—then you can release them into the situations you choose.
What Engagement Means
Engagement is simply your dog giving you their attention on purpose.
It’s that moment when they:
Look up when you say their name.
Pause before dashing off.
Wait for your signal before exploring.
Once your dog learns to tune in when you ask, you gain the chance to guide them. Only then does recall become smooth, instead of a struggle.
Why Engagement Comes First
Imagine this: you go to the park, unclip the leash, and your dog bolts. Now you’re stuck calling them back every two minutes. Stressful, right?
But if you’ve built engagement, it looks different:
Your dog checks in with you before running off.
You give the release word, and they happily go explore.
When you need their attention again, it’s already a habit for them to look back.
This way, you don’t spend the whole outing chasing after recall—you’re guiding the outing together.
Everyday Ways to Build Engagement
You don’t need to wait until you’re off-leash. Engagement starts in daily life:
At the door: Before walks, ask your dog to focus on you before stepping outside.
During meals: Wait for eye contact before giving “OK” to eat.
On walks: Practice calling their name and rewarding them for looking at you.
Playtime: Pause the game and ask for attention before tossing the ball again.
These small games shouldn’t be done EVERY time. We want our dogs to enjoy their meals, walks and playtime but can be great ways to teach your dog that checking in with you is part of life.
A Simple Starter Exercise
Here’s a quick game you can try anywhere:
The Name Game
Say your dog’s name in a happy, clear voice.
The moment they look at you, mark it with “yes!” or a clicker.
Reward with a treat or toy.
Repeat a few times a day, in different rooms or spots on your walk.
The goal isn’t recall yet—it’s teaching your dog that looking at you when you ask is rewarding. Once this becomes a habit, recall gets much easier.
How Engagement Helps Recall
When your dog already knows how to focus on you, recall becomes natural:
You don’t have to call them back constantly.
You avoid tug-of-war battles over their attention.
You set up a calmer, safer relationship where your dog sees you as part of the fun, not just the one ending it.
Final Thoughts
Yes, teaching “come” matters. But recall isn’t just about pulling your dog away from the world. It’s about first practicing engagement so that when you do release them, you know they’ll come back willingly.
When your dog learns to check in before charging forward, life is smoother, safer, and far more enjoyable—for both of you.
Need Help Building Your Dog’s Recall?
Every dog is different, and sometimes it helps to have expert guidance. If you’d like support with recall, engagement, or any other part of your dog’s training, you can book a free discovery call with Bondi Behaviourist.
Together, we’ll talk through your goals, your dog’s needs, and create a plan to make life easier and more enjoyable for both of you.
