Dog Not Coming Back? Let’s Make You More Exciting
“My dog just doesn’t come back.”
It’s one of the most common recall concerns I hear from owners — and it’s far more normal than you might think.
Most of the time, it isn’t about stubbornness or your dog “ignoring” you. It’s simply this: something else is more interesting.
Why Dogs Don’t Come Back When Called
Picture this.
You’re in a field. Sharon is waving a £50 note. Tracy is waving 50p.
Who are you walking towards?
That’s recall training in real life.
If your dog is chasing a squirrel, sniffing something fascinating, or playing with another dog, that environment can easily feel like the £50. If coming back to you has historically paid out in something a bit “meh”, your dog is just making a sensible choice.
The Most Common Recall Gap
Many dogs hear their recall cue and think:
“Oh… that word that usually gets me something boring.”
If “come” has been repeatedly paired with low-value rewards, the cue slowly loses its power. Over time, your dog learns that responding immediately just isn’t worth disengaging from the environment.
Reliable recall comes from pairing the cue with something that genuinely matters to your dog. (If you like seeing this explained by a mainstream welfare organisation too, the Kennel Club’s recall guidance offers a helpful overview that aligns with reward-based training.)
Training Treats vs Recall Treats
This distinction is where recall starts to improve.
- Training treats
Everyday, low-level rewards for simple behaviours.
- Recall treats
Rare, special rewards that make coming back feel like a great decision.
When dogs expect the recall cue to pay well, response speed and reliability improve naturally.
Every dog is different. Some will work for cheese, some for meat, some for toys — and some would rather walk away than touch carrot. Choose what genuinely motivates your dog.
Here are some suggestions of recall treats, as approved by Bear:
It’s really important to have that difference. Read: Using The Right Treat For The Right Job.
And if you want more recall context, these are well worth a read:
Why Your Dog Stops Coming Back
Why Recall When You Don’t Need To?
Avoid Dogs Running Up
Why Longer-Lasting Recall Rewards Help
I often use recall rewards that take a little longer to finish (Bear is a fan of anything that keeps him busy).
- They keep your dog close for longer
- Arousal levels have time to drop naturally
- You can calmly clip the lead on if needed
Next time you’re out and about, just think to yourself: are you Sharon… or are you Tracy?
For the best tips on recall training, check out our
Rapid Recall Online Course
FAQ
Why does my dog ignore me when I call them?
Dogs repeat behaviours that have paid off before. If recall hasn’t consistently been rewarding, the environment often wins.
Should I keep calling if my dog doesn’t respond?
No. Repeating the cue teaches your dog they don’t need to respond straight away. Say it once, then manage the situation instead.
Is using food for recall a bad habit?
No. Reinforcement builds behaviour. Once recall is strong, rewards can be varied and faded gradually.
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