Make the Call Irresistible

How you call matters as much as what you say. Most owners stand still and call in a flat voice, which gives the dog no reason to hurry. Do the opposite.

Call once, then turn and run away from your dog a few steps. Dogs are wired to chase what moves away, so running backward pulls them toward you fast. Add an excited, high voice, maybe a little clap. You want the dog to feel like they're catching the most fun thing in the yard — and then to be paid like it the moment they reach you.