RECALL “Come When Called!

“Come When Called! A Recall Adventure with Truffo and Vita”

Truffo and Vita’s Conversation

Vita: (stretching in the sun) Truffo, why do humans always yell our names like we’ve won the lottery?

Truffo: (grinning) Because we are the lottery, Vita. Pure, furry gold.

Vita: True. But seriously, sometimes they call and I’m mid-sniff. That’s like asking a gourmet chef to abandon a soufflé!

Truffo: I know, right? Or mid-dig! You can’t just pause a masterpiece.

(leans closer) But between you and me, the real pros have a little trick.

Vita: (tilting her head) A trick? Do tell, oh wise and wily one.

Truffo: We train them. Every time we come when they call, they throw a party. Treats! Toys! Praise! It’s like pressing a jackpot button. I especially like when Mom throws those cheese balls and truffle butter popcorn. They stay really close to Mom and that makes her really happy.

Vita: (eyes wide) So you’re saying… coming when called is just good business?

Truffo: Exactly. You run back fast, look adorable, and boom — snack rain.

And the faster you come, the better the prizes.

Vita: (laughing) So basically, recall is just… human training?

Truffo: Precisely.

(paws at the air) We think we’re working for them.

They think they’re working with us.

Everybody wins.

Vita: (grinning) I’m putting “Master Recall Negotiator” on my resume.

Teaching a Solid Recall: A Guide for Humans

Training your dog to come when called is one of the most important skills you can teach — and it could even save their life someday. Here’s how to build a happy, reliable recall:

Remember:

In Truffo and Vita’s world, recall isn’t just a command — it’s a party invitation.

The faster they get to you, the sooner the celebration starts!

1. 

Pick a special recall word

• Choose a word that means only “amazing things happen” — something like “Here!” or “Party!” or even “Cookies!”

• Avoid overusing their name alone — we want the recall word to stay magical.

2. 

Start small

• Practice indoors first, with no distractions.

• Call your dog excitedly and reward immediately with treats, praise, or a favorite toy the second they reach you.

• Key: The reward should feel better than anything else they could be doing.

3. 

Make it a game

• Play recall games like Hide and Seek, Chase Me, or Find Me around the house or yard.

• Use a happy voice, run away from them (not toward them!), and let them “catch” you for a reward.

4. 

Use High-Value Rewards

• For recalls, use the good stuff: chicken, cheese, liver treats — not kibble.

• Mix it up so they’re always wondering what fabulous prize is coming next.

5. 

Gradually add distractions

• Move to bigger areas: the backyard, a quiet park, a busy trail.

• Only call once. If they don’t come, go get them calmly (no scolding!), and practice at an easier level next time.

6. 

Never punish your dog for coming

• Even if they took their sweet time or rolled in something unspeakable, ALWAYS reward them when they come.

  
  

  Coming to you must always = good things happen.

7. 

Practice, practice, practice

• Short, fun sessions are best — just a few minutes a day.

• Keep it upbeat and end while your dog is still having fun.

Stop Repeating “Here” — Strengthen Your Dog’s Recall the Right Way

One of the most common mistakes dog owners make during recall training is repeating the recall word — often "here" — over and over, even when the dog isn’t responding. If this sounds familiar, it’s time to pause and rethink the message you're sending.

When you call your dog and they don’t come, every repeated "here" without a response teaches them that they don’t really have to listen the first time — or even the second or third. Overusing the recall cue when it's not being followed weakens its effectiveness and creates confusion. Instead, if you say "here" and your dog ignores you, don’t keep calling. Go get them calmly and leash them back up. This isn’t punishment; it’s a reminder that recall is not optional.

Successful recall starts with consistency and clarity. Only use your recall word when you’re confident your dog is ready to respond — and reinforce it every time they do. If they’re not quite there yet, it’s okay! That just means a bit more practice in a controlled environment is needed.

Remember, one cue should be all it takes. That single word should mean something powerful and positive to your dog — “Come to me now and great things happen.” Keep training sessions short, positive, and rewarding, and resist the urge to repeat the cue.

Build reliability through repetition in training, not in the field. A solid recall can be a lifesaver — literally — so give it the attention and structure it deserves.