Proper recall training is essential to prevent dogs from wandering onto a road or getting lost.

Melissa Millett, head dog-training instructor at In Dogs We Trust in London, Ont., shares recall training tips for pups (or any dog who needs a summer refresher). 

The first step, she says, is teaching Buddy to focus. Reward him each time he makes eye contact without prompting while on a leashed walk.

Next, practise restrained recall in a fenced area. Have someone hold the dog while you move a few metres away. Call him by name and say, “Come,” as your helper releases the lead. Always reward him for coming—even if it takes a while.

Still don’t trust your pup’s recall skills? Don’t force it. Of Millett’s nine professionally trained dogs, she only allows six off leash.