The Recall
Australian Cobberdogs are clever, relational, and full of joyful mischief. Many owners know the moment: the lead comes off, the Cobberdog darts away, looks back with sparkling eyes, and invites a game of “catch me if you can.”
This isn’t disobedience — it’s a social game. The solution isn’t chasing, shouting, or frustration, or calling their name. It’s understanding their psychology and using it to your advantage.
This guide gives you a complete recall program tailored to Cobberdogs, including a technique that has solved every runaway case I’ve ever encountered: I call it the Disappearing Handler Technique.
This isn’t disobedience — it’s a social game. The solution isn’t chasing, shouting, or frustration, or calling their name. It’s understanding their psychology and using it to your advantage.
This guide gives you a complete recall program tailored to Cobberdogs, including a technique that has solved every runaway case I’ve ever encountered: I call it the Disappearing Handler Technique.
UNDERSTANDING THE COBBERDOG MINDSET
Cobberdogs are emotionally attuned, highly bonded to their humans, play‑driven, quick thinkers, and sensitive to tone and energy.
When they run away and look back, they’re inviting you into a game. If you chase them, you’ve accepted the invitation. To change the behaviour, you must change the game.
Cobberdogs are emotionally attuned, highly bonded to their humans, play‑driven, quick thinkers, and sensitive to tone and energy.
When they run away and look back, they’re inviting you into a game. If you chase them, you’ve accepted the invitation. To change the behaviour, you must change the game.
Why Recall Matters
A reliable recall isn’t just a party trick — it’s a safety net. It protects dogs from hazards, gives them more freedom, and strengthens the bond between dog and handler. At its core, recall is about trust: the dog trusts that coming back is always safe, rewarding, and worthwhile.
The Behavioural Foundation
A strong recall is built on:
1. Start in a Low-Distraction Environment
Begin indoors or in a quiet yard. Say the dog’s name once, then your recall cue (e.g., “Come!” or “Here!”). When they turn toward you, celebrate and reward generously.
Key principle: Reward the decision to come, not just the arrival.
A reliable recall isn’t just a party trick — it’s a safety net. It protects dogs from hazards, gives them more freedom, and strengthens the bond between dog and handler. At its core, recall is about trust: the dog trusts that coming back is always safe, rewarding, and worthwhile.
The Behavioural Foundation
A strong recall is built on:
- Positive associations — the dog learns that returning to you predicts good things.
- Clarity and consistency — the cue always means the same behaviour.
- Emotional safety — no dog will run toward someone they fear.
- Reinforcement history — the more often the dog is rewarded for coming, the stronger the behaviour becomes.
1. Start in a Low-Distraction Environment
Begin indoors or in a quiet yard. Say the dog’s name once, then your recall cue (e.g., “Come!” or “Here!”). When they turn toward you, celebrate and reward generously.
Key principle: Reward the decision to come, not just the arrival.
THE COBBERDOG RECALL TRAINING PROGRAM
PHASE 1 — FOUNDATION
The Name Game Teach your Cobberdog to orient to you instantly when they hear their name. Say their name once, and once only and when they glance at you, reward generously. They don't need to come to you in the early stages, just glancing to you is enough to show you that you have caught their attention.
Micro‑Recalls Indoors Practice short recalls over 1–3 metres inside the house. Call once, reward every success, and keep sessions brief and fun.
Reward Variety Cobberdogs thrive on novelty. Rotate tiny soft treats, toys, short games, and affection.
PHASE 1 — FOUNDATION
The Name Game Teach your Cobberdog to orient to you instantly when they hear their name. Say their name once, and once only and when they glance at you, reward generously. They don't need to come to you in the early stages, just glancing to you is enough to show you that you have caught their attention.
Micro‑Recalls Indoors Practice short recalls over 1–3 metres inside the house. Call once, reward every success, and keep sessions brief and fun.
Reward Variety Cobberdogs thrive on novelty. Rotate tiny soft treats, toys, short games, and affection.
The following techniques presuppose that you've already taught your Cobberdog to walk on a slack leash. This demonstrates to your dog at the very least, that you are their pack leader.
PHASE 2 — CONTROLLED FREEDOM
Long‑Line Training Use a 10–20 metre long line in safe, open areas. This gives your Cobberdog freedom while preventing runaway rehearsals.
Follow Me, Don’t Chase Me Walk in gentle zig‑zags or change direction often. Reward your Cobberdog whenever they choose to follow you.
Recall → Reward → Release Call your Cobberdog, reward them when they arrive, then release them to play again. Coming back should create more freedom, not end it.
Long‑Line Training Use a 10–20 metre long line in safe, open areas. This gives your Cobberdog freedom while preventing runaway rehearsals.
Follow Me, Don’t Chase Me Walk in gentle zig‑zags or change direction often. Reward your Cobberdog whenever they choose to follow you.
Recall → Reward → Release Call your Cobberdog, reward them when they arrive, then release them to play again. Coming back should create more freedom, not end it.
PHASE 3 — REAL‑WORLD DISTRACTIONS
Controlled Setups Introduce mild distractions such as a person walking by, a toy on the ground, or another dog at a distance.
The “Chase Me!” Replacement Game. Call your Cobberdog, and when they arrive, run backwards a few steps and let them chase you.
Jackpot Moments When your Cobberdog recalls away from something very tempting, give a “jackpot” — several small treats in a row, plus warm praise.
Controlled Setups Introduce mild distractions such as a person walking by, a toy on the ground, or another dog at a distance.
The “Chase Me!” Replacement Game. Call your Cobberdog, and when they arrive, run backwards a few steps and let them chase you.
Jackpot Moments When your Cobberdog recalls away from something very tempting, give a “jackpot” — several small treats in a row, plus warm praise.
PHASE 4 — EMERGENCY RECALL
Choose a unique cue (a special word or whistle) that means “drop everything and come now.” Pair it only with the highest‑value rewards.
PHASE 5 — PREVENTING RELAPSE
• Never chase your Cobberdog • Never call when you’re angry • Reinforce even slow recalls • Protect your recall cue • Practice in new environments
Choose a unique cue (a special word or whistle) that means “drop everything and come now.” Pair it only with the highest‑value rewards.
PHASE 5 — PREVENTING RELAPSE
• Never chase your Cobberdog • Never call when you’re angry • Reinforce even slow recalls • Protect your recall cue • Practice in new environments
THE DISAPPEARING HANDLER TECHNIQUE
This simple, elegant method has worked in every Cobberdog “catch me if you can” case I’ve encountered. It uses the dog’s natural instincts instead of fighting them.
When to Use It • Your Cobberdog runs away and looks back • They refuse to come but stay within sight • They clearly want you to chase them. DON'T. Do this instead.
This simple, elegant method has worked in every Cobberdog “catch me if you can” case I’ve encountered. It uses the dog’s natural instincts instead of fighting them.
When to Use It • Your Cobberdog runs away and looks back • They refuse to come but stay within sight • They clearly want you to chase them. DON'T. Do this instead.
How to Do It
- Stop the Game Do not chase. Do not call repeatedly. Do not show frustration.
- Turn Away. Turn your back to your Cobberdog and walk calmly in the opposite direction. RESIST the temptation to look back over your shoulder to see if your Cobberdog is coming after you. It WILL BE.
- When your Cobberdog catches up with you, RESIST the temptation to touch it or to clip the leash back on on This is vital.
- Change direction frequently.
IF your Cobberdog takes its attention off you and runs off again, do not react, do not call. Instead, walk briskly in the opposite direction. Find a tree or other object to hide behind, or if there is none, this is what you do. Lie face down on the ground and lie motionless.
- Disappear. Step behind a tree, shed, car, or building. Alternatively, lie flat on the ground and stay still. This sudden “disappearance” shifts your Cobberdog’s emotional state from playful to concerned.
- Let Them Come Find You. Within moments, your Cobberdog will stop the game and come looking for you.
- Praise Calmly and Continue. Simply reconnect and carry on. Over time, the runaway game loses its appeal.
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CASE STUDY — MILO THE ESCAPE ARTIST
Milo, a two‑year‑old Cobberdog, adored the chase game. The moment his lead came off, he would bolt away, spin around, and freeze in a playful stance. If his owner moved toward him, he exploded into joyful zoomies.
Nothing worked — not treats, toys, or calling — because the game itself was more rewarding.
During a training session, Milo’s owner tried the Disappearing Handler Technique. Instead of chasing, she quietly turned away and stepped behind a tree. Milo stopped mid‑zoomie. His eyes shifted from playful to searching. Within seconds, he galloped back to find her. The runaway game lost its power that day.
Milo, a two‑year‑old Cobberdog, adored the chase game. The moment his lead came off, he would bolt away, spin around, and freeze in a playful stance. If his owner moved toward him, he exploded into joyful zoomies.
Nothing worked — not treats, toys, or calling — because the game itself was more rewarding.
During a training session, Milo’s owner tried the Disappearing Handler Technique. Instead of chasing, she quietly turned away and stepped behind a tree. Milo stopped mid‑zoomie. His eyes shifted from playful to searching. Within seconds, he galloped back to find her. The runaway game lost its power that day.
BEHAVIOURAL SCIENCE — WHY IT WORKS
- Cobberdogs Are Bond‑Driven Losing sight of their person triggers an instinctive need to reconnect.
- You Remove the Reinforcement Running away is only fun if the human reacts.
- You Trigger Natural Check‑In Behaviour Dogs naturally monitor their group members.
- Emotional Shift Playfulness becomes mild concern, which makes recall far more likely.
- You Regain Control of the Game. Running away makes you disappear. Staying close keeps you available.
TROUBLESHOOTING
If Your Cobberdog Doesn’t Return Immediately Stay hidden and calm. They will come!
If They Escalate the Game Use a long line temporarily.
If They Panic Step out, reassure them, and shorten the distance next time.
If They Return but Run Off Again Use recall → reward → release.
If It Only Happens in Certain Places Practice in multiple environments.
If Your Cobberdog Is a puppy or an Adolescent Regression is normal. Stay consistent.
CONCLUSION
Cobberdogs are joyful, clever, and deeply bonded companions. Their recall becomes exceptional when training aligns with their psychology.
The Disappearing Handler Technique is gentle, powerful, and life‑changing — transforming the runaway game into a lifelong habit of checking that you are okay which is the whole point of having an Australian Cobberdog!
If Your Cobberdog Doesn’t Return Immediately Stay hidden and calm. They will come!
If They Escalate the Game Use a long line temporarily.
If They Panic Step out, reassure them, and shorten the distance next time.
If They Return but Run Off Again Use recall → reward → release.
If It Only Happens in Certain Places Practice in multiple environments.
If Your Cobberdog Is a puppy or an Adolescent Regression is normal. Stay consistent.
CONCLUSION
Cobberdogs are joyful, clever, and deeply bonded companions. Their recall becomes exceptional when training aligns with their psychology.
The Disappearing Handler Technique is gentle, powerful, and life‑changing — transforming the runaway game into a lifelong habit of checking that you are okay which is the whole point of having an Australian Cobberdog!
2. Use High-Value Reinforcers
Recall must compete with the world — scents, wildlife, other dogs, and the thrill of exploration. Use rewards that matter:
Dogs learn best when training feels like play. End every recall with something positive, never with punishment or the end of fun.
4. Add Distance and Mild Distractions
Gradually increase difficulty:
A long line (10–20 metres) allows freedom while keeping the dog safe. Practice recalls in parks, fields, and other real-world environments.
Tip: Avoid yanking the line. Let it be a safety measure, not a steering wheel.
6. Reinforce Every Single Recall — Especially Early On
Even if the dog comes slowly or after a moment of hesitation, reward them. You’re reinforcing the choice to return.
7. Never Call the Dog for Something Unpleasant
This is one of the biggest recall killers. Avoid using the recall cue for:
8. Build a Habit of Surprise Rewards
Once the recall is reliable, keep it strong by occasionally offering:
Common Mistakes Owners Make
Dog ignores the cue
Go back to basics. The cue may have lost meaning. Re-teach it in a quiet environment.
Dog comes only when they feel like it
Increase reward value and reduce distractions temporarily.
Dog runs away instead of toward you
This often indicates:
Making Recall a Lifelong Habit
Recall isn’t a one-time lesson — it’s a behaviour that must be maintained. Regular practice, ongoing rewards, and a positive relationship keep it strong for life.
Recall must compete with the world — scents, wildlife, other dogs, and the thrill of exploration. Use rewards that matter:
- Tiny soft treats
- A favourite toy
- A quick game of tug
- Praise and affection (for dogs who value it)
Dogs learn best when training feels like play. End every recall with something positive, never with punishment or the end of fun.
4. Add Distance and Mild Distractions
Gradually increase difficulty:
- Move farther away
- Practice in different rooms
- Add gentle distractions (a family member walking by, a toy on the ground)
A long line (10–20 metres) allows freedom while keeping the dog safe. Practice recalls in parks, fields, and other real-world environments.
Tip: Avoid yanking the line. Let it be a safety measure, not a steering wheel.
6. Reinforce Every Single Recall — Especially Early On
Even if the dog comes slowly or after a moment of hesitation, reward them. You’re reinforcing the choice to return.
7. Never Call the Dog for Something Unpleasant
This is one of the biggest recall killers. Avoid using the recall cue for:
- Nail trims
- Baths
- Ending playtime
- Going inside when they want to stay out
8. Build a Habit of Surprise Rewards
Once the recall is reliable, keep it strong by occasionally offering:
- A jackpot of treats
- A favourite toy
- A chance to run again after returning
Common Mistakes Owners Make
- Repeating the cue over and over
- Calling the dog when angry or frustrated
- Punishing the dog for coming slowly
- Expecting reliability too soon
- Competing with distractions instead of training through them
Dog ignores the cue
Go back to basics. The cue may have lost meaning. Re-teach it in a quiet environment.
Dog comes only when they feel like it
Increase reward value and reduce distractions temporarily.
Dog runs away instead of toward you
This often indicates:
- Fear or uncertainty
- A history of being punished after returning
- A stronger reinforcement history with the environment than with the handler.
Making Recall a Lifelong Habit
Recall isn’t a one-time lesson — it’s a behaviour that must be maintained. Regular practice, ongoing rewards, and a positive relationship keep it strong for life.
COBBERDOG RECALL TRAINING PROGRAM
Transforming the Runaway Game into a Come-Back Game
Why Cobberdogs Play the Runaway Game
Cobberdogs often:
Transforming the Runaway Game into a Come-Back Game
Why Cobberdogs Play the Runaway Game
Cobberdogs often:
- Love being chased
- Enjoy initiating social play
- Are highly attuned to human reactions
- Learn quickly what gets a big response
PHASE 1 — FOUNDATION: BUILDING THE “MAGNET RESPONSE”
Goal:
Teach the dog that moving toward you is always rewarding, safe, and fun.
Exercises:
1. The Name Game
2. Micro-Recalls Indoors
Cobberdogs thrive on novelty. Rotate:
PHASE 2 — CONTROLLED FREEDOM: LONG-LINE TRAINING
Goal:
Give the dog freedom while preventing runaway rehearsals.
Equipment:
A 10–20 metre long line (never a retractable lead).
Exercises:
1. Follow Me, Don’t Chase Me
2. Recall → Release
Cobberdogs love freedom. Use it as a reward:
3. The Turn-and-Go Technique
If the dog tries to initiate the runaway game:
Goal:
Teach the dog that moving toward you is always rewarding, safe, and fun.
Exercises:
1. The Name Game
- Say the dog’s name once.
- When they glance at you, mark (“Yes!”) and reward.
- Repeat until the head-turn becomes automatic.
2. Micro-Recalls Indoors
- Stand 1–2 metres away.
- Say your recall cue (“Here!” or “Come!”).
- When they take even one step toward you, reward generously.
- Keep sessions under 2 minutes.
Cobberdogs thrive on novelty. Rotate:
- Tiny soft treats
- A quick tug
- A squeaky toy burst
- A cuddle
- A chance to run again
PHASE 2 — CONTROLLED FREEDOM: LONG-LINE TRAINING
Goal:
Give the dog freedom while preventing runaway rehearsals.
Equipment:
A 10–20 metre long line (never a retractable lead).
Exercises:
1. Follow Me, Don’t Chase Me
- Walk in a zig-zag pattern.
- When the dog chooses to follow, praise and reward.
- If they drift away, you change direction — no chasing.
2. Recall → Release
Cobberdogs love freedom. Use it as a reward:
- Call the dog.
- Reward when they arrive.
- Then say “Go play!” and let them run again.
3. The Turn-and-Go Technique
If the dog tries to initiate the runaway game:
- Say nothing.
- Turn your back.
- Walk briskly in the opposite direction.
- When they follow, reward warmly.
PHASE 3 — REAL-WORLD DISTRACTIONS
Goal:
Teach the dog to recall even when the world is exciting.
Exercises:
1. Controlled Distraction Setups
Start with mild distractions:
2. The “Chase Me!” Replacement Game
Cobberdogs love movement. Use it on your terms:
3. Jackpot Moments
When they recall away from something highly tempting:
Goal:
Teach the dog to recall even when the world is exciting.
Exercises:
1. Controlled Distraction Setups
Start with mild distractions:
- A friend walking nearby
- A toy on the ground
- Another dog at a distance
2. The “Chase Me!” Replacement Game
Cobberdogs love movement. Use it on your terms:
- Call the dog.
- When they arrive, run backwards a few steps.
- Let them chase you.
- Reward.
3. Jackpot Moments
When they recall away from something highly tempting:
- Give a “jackpot” (5–10 tiny treats one after another).
- Celebrate like they’ve won the Melbourne Cup.
PHASE 4 — THE EMERGENCY RECALL
Goal:
Create a cue that means “drop everything and come immediately.”
Steps:
Goal:
Create a cue that means “drop everything and come immediately.”
Steps:
- Choose a unique cue (e.g., “Quick!” or a whistle).
- Use it only in training until it is perfect.
- Pair it with the highest-value reward the dog ever gets.
- Never use it casually.
- Never use it for anything unpleasant.
PHASE 5 — PREVENTING RELAPSE
1. Never Chase a Cobberdog
Chasing reinforces the runaway game instantly.
2. Avoid Calling When Angry
They will avoid returning if they sense tension.
3. Maintain the Behaviour
If the dog is unlikely to come (e.g., mid-play with another dog), go get them instead of calling.
1. Never Chase a Cobberdog
Chasing reinforces the runaway game instantly.
2. Avoid Calling When Angry
They will avoid returning if they sense tension.
3. Maintain the Behaviour
- Practice 3–5 recalls daily
- Use surprise rewards
- Reinforce even “slow” recalls
- Keep recall fun, not formal
If the dog is unlikely to come (e.g., mid-play with another dog), go get them instead of calling.
THE “DISAPPEARING HANDLER” TECHNIQUE To Recap.
A Proven Solution for Cobberdogs Who Play ‘Catch Me If You Can’
Cobberdogs are clever, relational, and playful. When they dash away and look back over their shoulder, they’re not being defiant — they’re inviting you into a game. If you chase them, you’ve accepted the invitation. The behaviour is instantly reinforced.
But there’s a simple, powerful way to flip the game on its head.
The Method
When a Cobberdog runs away hoping you’ll follow:
Why It Works
This technique taps into three natural instincts:
1. Social Connection
Cobberdogs are bred to be deeply bonded companions. Losing sight of their person triggers an immediate desire to reconnect.
2. Curiosity and Concern
When you suddenly “disappear,” the dog’s playful mindset shifts to “Where did my human go?” This overrides the runaway game instantly.
3. The Power of Silence
By removing all reaction — no shouting, no chasing, no drama — you remove the reward for running away. The only rewarding behaviour left is coming back.
How to Use It Safely
A Proven Solution for Cobberdogs Who Play ‘Catch Me If You Can’
Cobberdogs are clever, relational, and playful. When they dash away and look back over their shoulder, they’re not being defiant — they’re inviting you into a game. If you chase them, you’ve accepted the invitation. The behaviour is instantly reinforced.
But there’s a simple, powerful way to flip the game on its head.
The Method
When a Cobberdog runs away hoping you’ll follow:
- Do not chase.
- Turn your back and walk in the opposite direction.
- Hide behind a tree, a shed, a car — anything that breaks their visual contact.
- Or lie flat on the ground (this is surprisingly effective).
Why It Works
This technique taps into three natural instincts:
1. Social Connection
Cobberdogs are bred to be deeply bonded companions. Losing sight of their person triggers an immediate desire to reconnect.
2. Curiosity and Concern
When you suddenly “disappear,” the dog’s playful mindset shifts to “Where did my human go?” This overrides the runaway game instantly.
3. The Power of Silence
By removing all reaction — no shouting, no chasing, no drama — you remove the reward for running away. The only rewarding behaviour left is coming back.
How to Use It Safely
- Only use this technique in secure areas (fenced properties, safe parks, long-line training).
- Avoid using it near roads or hazards.
- Keep your body language calm and neutral.
- When the dog returns, praise warmly but don’t overexcite them.
- Resume your walk or activity as if nothing happened.
- It removes the fun from running away.
- It adds value to staying close.
- It teaches the dog that you control the game, not them.