[Day 40] Distraction triangle "Pro": How to train the perfect recall
Basic obedience: Day 40 of 56
This video and training is part of the Grunge Obedience Concept, a structured programme to promote obedience and the bond between humans and dogs. The concept is carefully didactic and methodical to ensure that each exercise builds on the previous one for maximum effectiveness. It is crucial that you carry out the training in the intended order to achieve the best possible results for your dog.
If you have already practised recall training with your dog, you will know that distractions can be one of the biggest challenges. Whether it's another dog, a person walking past or the smell of a treat on the floor - there are many situations in which the recall is put to the test. With the "Pro" distraction triangle method, you will learn to specifically train these distractions and your dog will understand that he must come to you on your signal even under extreme stimuli. Not only will you build up a safe recall, but you will also strengthen your bond by guiding your dog through such situations in a conscious and structured way.
Goal: Your dog learns to follow your recall instead of the distraction and that this is to be adhered to in any case
Equipment: distraction, Long Leash, Collar, jackpot treats
Location: Low-stimulus outdoor environment
Duration: approx. 5 repetitions with breaks in between, variation with different distractions
Distraction triangle "Pro"
The "Pro" distraction triangle is a method that specifically trains recall under distraction and trains your dog's self-control in the process. The level of difficulty is gradually increased by placing various distractions in the way while your dog learns to keep the focus on you.
Why the distraction triangle works:
The principle of the distraction triangle is based on you and your dog facing each other while a distraction is in the triangle towards you. The distraction is on its way to you, which means that your dog has to decide whether to come to you or go to the distraction. This method allows you to do the training in controlled, safe environments and help your dog to control his impulses. It is important that you teach your dog that obeying the recall signal will ultimately reward him - both with a treat and the opportunity to go to the distraction.
The double reward:
This method uses the Premack principle by rewarding the dog twice for the correct behaviour. Firstly, he receives a jackpot treat when he responds to your recall, and secondly, he is allowed to go to the distraction after you have released him. This teaches your dog that it's worth following you - not just because he gets a treat, but also because he gets to do the thing that excites him so much in the end.
Different distractions:
To make the training effective, you should work with various distractions that come close to real everyday situations. Think of other dogs, people or even toys and food as stimuli that your dog has to overcome. Make sure to make the distractions progressively more difficult and vary the distance between you, the dog and the distraction.
Controlled management:
The Long Leash serves as a safe means of control to prevent your dog from escaping the exercise and running to the distraction. By leading him safely on the Long Leash, you can help him to control his impulses and come to you without allowing self-rewarding behaviour. This is especially important when training with strong distractions.
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Summary
The "Pro" distraction triangle is a great way to reinforce your dog's recall under realistic conditions. By consciously using different distractions and rewarding your dog with the Premack principle, you will teach him that coming to you is not only pleasant, but also fun. Regular practice and slowly increasing the distractions will help your dog to master the recall even in the most difficult situations.
This video and training is part of the Grunge Obedience Concept, a structured programme to promote obedience and the bond between humans and dogs. The concept is carefully didactic and methodical to ensure that each exercise builds on the previous one for maximum effectiveness. It is crucial that you carry out the training in the intended order to achieve the best possible results for your dog.
The authors: Paulina & Lui
Paulina and Lui are the heart and soul behind Vitomalia [Dogstraining & Store]. Her journey in dog training began with the adoption of her first list dog, Vito. This experience sparked her deep interest in teaching other dog owners about dog behaviour and training. Initially this was just a hobby, but her passion developed into a true vocation when she adopted Amalia, an American Pitbull dog who had been relinquished several times due to severe behavioural problems. Amalia's particular behavioural challenges intensified her interest in dog training and behavioural therapy. This turning point led Paulina and Lui to leave their original career paths, undergo intensive further training and dedicate themselves fully to the subject of dog training. Their work with human-dog teams also revealed a gap in the dog market: there was a lack of safe, high-quality dog accessories specifically for medium-sized and large breeds.
From this realisation, Vitomalia [Dogstraining & Store] was born, a combination of their commitment to professional dog training and the need for quality dog accessories. Paulina and Lui bring their personal experience, extensive knowledge and passion for dogs to every product to help human-dog teams live together.