Building a Dog Who Wants to Return

What makes a dog choose to come back?

Many people think recall starts with teaching the cue "come," but reliable recall is about much more than a single behavior. It begins with understanding the dog in front of us—their genetics, their needs, their motivations, and the relationship we have with them.

In this episode, I explore what recall actually looks like beyond the cue itself, the foundational behaviors that support it, and the common mistakes that often get in the way of success. We discuss the importance of meeting a dog's biological and emotional needs, fostering check-ins and engagement, and creating an environment where returning to their person becomes a meaningful choice rather than a forced response.

Whether you're working with a puppy, an adolescent, or an adult dog, this conversation offers a different perspective on recall—one that focuses less on control and more on connection.

Because the strongest recalls aren't built on obedience alone. They're built on trust, understanding, and a dog who genuinely wants to return.

Mentioned in this episode:

The Dog Beneath the Behavior

What if your dog’s behavior isn’t the problem—but communication? In The Dog Beneath the Behavior, I take you beyond what your dog is doing and help you understand what may be happening underneath it. We’ll explore how chronic stress, fear, anxiety, and trauma can shape behavior—and how safety, connection, and compassion can create real change. If you’re ready to stop asking, “How do I fix this behavior?” and start asking, “What does my dog need?” then The Dog Beneath the Behavior is for you. Now on Amazon.

The Dog Beneath the Behavior

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