Does your dog struggle to come back when called? Maybe they’re great in the garden but ignore you at the park? If recall is hit-and-miss, especially around distractions like other dogs, wildlife, or busy environments, then long-line training is the solution.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to use a long line correctly to build a rock-solid recall, troubleshoot common mistakes, and choose the best long line for your dog. With positive reinforcement and the right approach, you can teach your dog to come back every time, no matter what’s happening around them.
Watch it on YouTube https://youtu.be/9xgQg-LG0f4
Why Use a Long Line for Recall Training?
A long line is more than just a safety tool—it’s an essential training aid. It allows your dog to practice recall in real-life settings while still giving you control. Unlike a standard leash, a long line gives your dog the freedom to explore while ensuring they don’t run off.
✅ Prevents reinforcement of bad habits – If your dog ignores your recall cue and runs off, they’re learning that ignoring you works! A long line prevents this.
✅ Builds reliability step by step – You control how much freedom they get, ensuring they succeed at every stage.
✅ Encourages off-leash-like behavior safely – Dogs love freedom, and long-line training gives them that feeling while keeping them secure.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Long Line
Not all long lines are the same! Here’s a breakdown of the options:
Nylon Long Lines – Lightweight but can cause hand burns if a dog pulls. Best for small dogs.
Fabric Lunge Lines (Horse Lunge Lines) – Comfortable to hold but absorb water and mud, making them heavy.
Biothane Long Lines – Waterproof, easy to clean, and durable. A great all-weather option.
Rubber-Grip Webbing Long Lines – Strong yet lightweight with excellent grip, even in the rain. (We recommend Houndagrip).
💡 Pro Tip: Always attach the long line to a well-fitted harness, not a collar, to prevent injury if your dog runs to the end of the line.
Step 2: Setting Up for Success
📍 Start in a low-distraction environment – Your garden or a quiet field is ideal.
🐶 Get your dog used to the long line – Before training, let them wear it for a few minutes while you stand still.
🎾 Use high-value treats – Choose something irresistible (chicken, cheese, or liver treats).
Step 3: The Long Line Recall Training Game
1️⃣ Begin with a short length – Gather the long line into big loops, keeping it just a few meters long.
2️⃣ Call your dog – Use a happy tone and say their recall cue once.
3️⃣ Drop a treat by your feet – If they’re close, success is guaranteed!
4️⃣ Gradually increase distance – Each time they succeed, let out a little more of the line.
5️⃣ Make recall exciting – Scatter treats, run backward to encourage chasing, and reward big!
What if they don’t come back?
Avoid repeating the cue. Instead, make yourself more exciting – clap, crouch down, or move away.
If needed, walk down the long line and lure them back with a treat.
Reduce the distance or distractions and set them up for success.
Step 4: Progressing to Off-Leash Recall
Once your dog reliably comes back every time on a long line, test them in more distracting environments. Take your training to busier parks, near other dogs (at a distance first), and eventually drop the long line for short periods in safe areas.
🐕 Trouble with recalling away from other dogs?
Start with a toy dog at a distance and reward recall.
Progress to real dogs but keep distance manageable.
Over time, close the gap while reinforcing success.
Common Problems & How to Fix Them
❌ The long line keeps tangling.
➡️ Keep the line in large loops and let it out gradually. If your dog gets tangled, drop the line, call them out, and reset.
❌ My dog bites the long line.
➡️ Stop moving, wait for them to let go, and reward calm behaviour. Never turn it into a tug game.
❌ They ignore me when distracted.
➡️ Reduce the distraction level and make recall more exciting than whatever they’re focused on.
Ready to Transform Your Dog’s Recall?
With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, your dog’s recall can go from unreliable to rock-solid. A long line is the bridge between on-leash and off-leash freedom, and with the right training, you’ll have a dog who comes running every time.
Want more training tips? Watch the full tutorial on our YouTube channel RL Dog Training and subscribe for weekly training videos!
Recommended Training Gear
🐶 Best Long Lines: Houndagrip Long Lines
🍖 Healthy Dog Food: Butternut Box – 50% Off First Two Boxes
🎾 Engaging Tug Toys: Tug-e-Nuff – 10% Off with Code RLDOGTRAINING
🧩 Enrichment Puzzles: K9 Connectables – 10% Off with Code rldogtraining10
Final Thoughts
Long-line training is a game-changer for recall. By setting your dog up for success, making recall fun, and using positive reinforcement, you’ll build a recall response that’s reliable no matter the environment.
Have questions or success stories? Drop a comment below! Happy training! 🐾
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