How to Build Reliable Recall—Even With Squirrels and Distractions

The Real Test of Training

It’s one thing for your dog to “come” when you’re holding a treat.It’s another thing for them to come when a squirrel rockets across the yard.T hat’s the difference between surface-level obedience and real-world trust.

At A Peaceful Pack, we build recall that works when it matters most—when instincts kick in, when distractions explode, and when there’s every reason for your dog to ignore you.

Because if your dog only listens in a sterile training room, they’re not trained. They’re rehearsed.

Why It Matters

Reliable recall isn’t a trick—it’s a lifeline. It gives your dog freedom and you peace of mind.

But here’s the problem: Most recall training stops at “cookie-based compliance.” The dog comes… when they feel like it. What we build is impulse-proof recall—where the dog listens even when it doesn’t feel natural.

The Science Behind Solid Recall

Impulse control is a neurological skill. Dr. Stephen Porges' Polyvagal Theory highlights how the nervous system shifts between safety and survival states. When a dog is in high-arousal (think: squirrels, other dogs, moving cars), their brain is in survival mode. The only way to get through to them in those moments is with a signal that cuts through that fog of instinct.

That’s why we pair the e-collar with recall—at the dog’s working level—right from the start.

It’s not about pressure. It’s about pattern. We tap the collar gently and backpedal, turning it into a fun chase-me game. The dog learns: When I feel this, I look to you. When I come to you, I win.

Step-by-Step: Building Bulletproof Recall

1. Teach the Word "Come" in Calm States First

Before we ever train around squirrels, we train around stillness. We condition the word come to mean: move to me, now, with enthusiasm.

We use leash pressure, food, and light e-collar taps at Level 1 to start the pattern. No distractions. No pressure. Just reps. Reps build rhythm.

2. Layer in Distance—Then Distraction

Once the dog gets the pattern, we add freedom.

• 15–20 foot long line.

• Let the dog wander.

• Say “Come!”

• Simultaneously tap the e-collar and backpedal excitedly.

The second your dog commits—release the button and praise like crazy. If the dog ignores you, you keep pressure on until they engage, then immediately release and reward.

That pressure/release loop builds a habit: I feel pressure, I find my human. I come back, it disappears.

3. Make It a Game—Every Single Time

When a dog comes to you, it’s a celebration. You’re the jackpot. You’re better than the squirrel.

But here’s the trick: you have to mean it. Clap, cheer, toss a treat, run with them—whatever it takes to make your recall the most rewarding moment of the day.

And if they hesitate? You match their drive. You turn, move, and call again—clear, exciting, confident.

4. Add Controlled Chaos

Once your dog recalls under low pressure, we add chaos—strategically.

• Throw food on the ground.

• Let another dog bark behind a fence.

• Use a squirrel decoy (yes, really).

Each time the dog sees a distraction and still chooses you, reward hard. If they lock onto the distraction, we tap the e-collar continuously (starting at their working level and gradually scrolling up) until they break focus and look at you. The second they do? Reward like they just saved your life. Because one day, they might.

Cooperation vs Competition

The reason your dog comes to you in the kitchen but not in the backyard is because you’ve only trained for cooperation—not competition. Squirrels, smells, and sounds are competition. That’s why we don’t just reward ‘come’—we condition it. Your dog doesn’t need more cookies. They need clarity. And when we pair the e-collar at a low level with your recall word, we build that clarity under pressure.

Let them see recall not as a command—but as communication. A promise that “when you choose me, you win."

What to Watch For

Signs of Reliable Recall Progress:

• Dog responds instantly even when distracted

• Dog breaks off play to return

• Dog orients to you when called (eye contact, body turn)

• Off-leash behavior looks similar to on-leash behavior

• Dog chooses proximity to you—even without being called

Signs More Work Is Needed:

• Dog ignores call when excited

• Dog “thinks about it” before returning

• Only responds when you have food visible

• Comes halfway, then bolts again

• Reacts stronger to environment than your voice or collar tap

Final Thoughts: Win the Recall, Win Their World

At A Peaceful Pack, we don’t train for “sometimes” results. We train for squirrel-level distractions. We train for real life. That’s why recall is a non-negotiable.

Not just for safety—but for trust. Not just for freedom—but for partnership. Because the moment your dog can choose you over instinct… you’ve unlocked the deepest level of the relationship.

So no, recall isn’t about coming when called. It’s about believing that coming to you is always the best decision.

References

• Stephen Porges – Polyvagal Theory: Neuroception and Emotional Regulation

• Grisha Stewart – BAT (Behavior Adjustment Training) – Calm recall from reactivity