[Day 42] Recall with the super signal: How the "here" whistle brings your dog back safely
Basic obedience: Day 42 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.
A strong recall is one of the most important parts of training a dog. But when it comes down to it, a simple "here" is sometimes not enough - especially in emergencies. This is where the "here" whistle comes into play. As a super signal, it is clear, unemotional and consistent, which makes it particularly effective. With the clear tone of the whistle, you can also safely call your dog back from difficult situations. In this article, we will show you how to build up the "here" whistle as a super signal and develop it into a powerful recall tool.
Goal: Your dog learns the recall with whistle as a super signal
Equipment: distraction, Long Leash, Harness, jackpot treat (super signal), whistle
Location: Low-stimulus outdoor environment
Duration: approx. 5 repetitions with breaks in between
Super signal with whistle
Recall training with a whistle is particularly effective because the sound remains constant and does not change due to our human emotions. Compared to a spoken recall, which can vary in situations of stress or frustration, the sound of the whistle always remains the same. This is an important orientation aid for the dog because it can rely on the clear tone, no matter what mood you are in.
Why a whistle as a super signal?
The whistle has several advantages over the classic recall. Firstly, it is particularly easy for dogs to hear due to its sharp, clear sound, even over long distances or in noisy environments. Secondly, the tone of a whistle remains constant - quite unlike our voice, which can quickly sound annoyed or anxious in stressful situations. This makes the whistle a particularly reliable signal that your dog can understand and obey more easily.
Choosing the right pipe
It is important to use a single-tone plastic whistle for recall training. This remains the same in all weather conditions and always produces the same sound. In contrast, wooden whistles can change their sound when it rains or is damp, which can lead to confusion for your dog. You should also avoid high-frequency whistles, as you often cannot control whether they work properly or can be heard by your dog.
The super signal: what's behind it?
The super signal is a specially conditioned signal that your dog only associates with a particularly strong reward, the so-called jackpot. This can be an extremely desirable treat or a special game, for example. The trick: This super signal should be used as rarely as possible in order to retain its effectiveness. Your dog learns that he can expect the best and most rewarding experience when he hears the whistle - regardless of what is going on around him.
Getting used to the pipe
Before you start the actual recall training, you must first get your dog used to the sound of the whistle. The sudden sound of the whistle can cause anxiety, especially in dogs that are sensitive to noise, such as herding dogs or dogs from abroad. Familiarisation takes place gradually and always in conjunction with positive reinforcement so that your dog associates the whistle positively.
Setting up the recall with the whistle
As soon as your dog has got used to the whistle, the actual build-up of the super signal begins. Here you use the principle of positive reinforcement: you whistle and reward your dog when he comes with the particularly coveted jackpot treat. It is important that you do not use any other signals - the whistle alone should be the signal to which your dog responds.
Using a Long Leash in the initial phase ensures that you can control your dog if he does not react immediately. At the same time, it gives you the opportunity to intervene gently if necessary.
Increase distance and distraction
Gradually build up the distance between you and your dog. The whistle is gradually practised at greater distances. As soon as your dog responds reliably, you can also practise in more distracting environments. However, it is important to remember that the jackpot treat is only reserved for the whistle and should not otherwise be used to keep the super signal particularly rewarding.
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Summary
Recall training with the "here" whistle as a super signal is an effective method for calling your dog to you safely and reliably in emergency situations. The clear, constant tone and the special reward teach your dog that coming to you is always the best decision. Patience and consistency in training make the super signal a powerful tool that works reliably in any situation.
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 with the adoption of the American Pitbull Amalia, who had been relinquished several times due to severe behavioural problems, her passion developed into a true vocation. 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.