His Recall Has Just Gone!

[megan_]

Hi All,

Fergus (2 year old mini schnauzer cross) usually has a great recall. I can call him away from dead birds, toys, other dogs etc. His recall is usually very enthusiastic. I reward each and every recall. We practice recall often and I make it as fun as I can - tugging, treats, lots of enthusiasm etc. In addition to this, he isn't one to wander. If he is playing with other dogs, he stays in my vacinity. Until yesterday.

On two occasions, he didn't even look at me when I called his name (he could definitely hear me though). He also trotted off (not running from me, but far away from me) to scounge around in the park (he wasn't going to a high value item). When he did acknowledge my call, he didn't respond to "come" at all - he just continued sniffing around. I was able to walk up to him and put on his lead, so he didn't think it was a game.

I'm a bit perplexed as to why this is happening. I was particularly worried when he just trotted off. There haven't been any changes (other than I'm feeding them some Nutro instead of EP Holistic, but I fail to see how that could impact his recall!).

I am going to up our training a bit and have a re-look (is that a word?) and my leadership. Any other ideas?

Thanks,

Megan

[kiesha09]

Are you sure someone didn't swap him for a no recall schnauzer I do know that dogs with a recall are in high demand these days hehe!

Sorry I can't be of more help. Maybe just go back to basics with him for a little while.

[BeagleBoys2]

You could find that he's just hit another level of maturity and he is asserting himself.

I always suggest that handlers do not use the recall command unless they are willing to carry it through. If the dog doesn't come you need to go get it and take it back to the spot where you called it from. Don't look at them and don't talk to them. Then have them front you and re-enforce the recall and praise them for being where you wanted them in the first place.

Edited March 22, 2010 by BeagleBoys2

[megan_]

kiesha09 - he is one of a kind, I'd notice the swap immediately :-).

I feel silly but it feels very personal to me - it is like he is running away from me, rather than a dog just testing the boundaries. I have let go that I know.

BB2 - I guess I've ben taking his recall for granted. It has been rock solid for almost 18 months. I've never worried about him not coming back before. When he did run off, I walked towards him, put on his leash, used our NRM of "too bad"and that was the end of fun for a while.

We went back to the park tonight. I did a bit of walking and training on leash and he was responsive and focused. I let him off ( I was very nervous!), we played some games, did a bit of clicker and formal training. I then did some ball throws and he came back every time. Phew.

I also ordered the Really Reliable Recall DVD to get some additional info.