Category: Recall

How to Teach Recall to a Stubborn Great Dane Dog
At Hello Danes, we are HUGE believers in teaching Great Danes how to come when called. This is an important skill that is necessary for their safety and our sanity! Recall is the ability to command a dog to return promptly upon hearing its name or a specific cue. If you are ready to teach recall to a stubborn Great Dane in your life, this is where it’s at.

Between the two of us, we have 5 Great Danes that regularly get together to play…off-leash. We can ask them to calmly wait while others walk by. They can noodle around and explore the forest or the water, and we know they will come when we ask them to.

Our dogs are not special or smarter or less stubborn than any other Great Dane! But they are well trained, and we are here to help you achieve the same.

Why is Recall Important for Great Danes?

A reliable recall skill not only ensures the safety of the dog and those around it but also fosters a deeper connection between the owner and their Great Dane.

Here are some great reasons to train your dog to come when called, no matter what!
1. Safety: One of the primary reasons for training a dog to come when called is to ensure their safety. Being able to call your dog back in potentially dangerous situations, such as traffic or around other animals, can prevent accidents and injuries.
2. Off-Leash Freedom: A well-trained recall allows dogs to enjoy off-leash activities, providing them with more freedom during walks, playtime, and in secure, designated areas.
3. Emergency Situations: In emergencies, a reliable recall can be a lifesaver. Whether it’s a sudden threat or a need to evacuate, being able to call your dog quickly and reliably is crucial.
4. Social Interaction: A dog that comes when called is generally more socially adaptable. This is important for interactions with other dogs, people, and in various environments where you want your dog to be well-behaved and responsive.
5. Compliance with Regulations: In many places, there are leash laws that mandate dogs to be under control in public spaces. A strong recall allows you to comply with these regulations, avoiding potential fines and ensuring a positive experience for others.
6. Building Trust: Teaching your dog to come when called strengthens the bond between you and your pet. Trust is the foundation of a healthy relationship, and a reliable recall demonstrates your dog’s trust in your guidance.
7. Ease of Veterinary Care: A dog that comes when called makes veterinary visits and routine care much easier. This cooperative behavior reduces stress for both the dog and the owner during medical examinations or treatments.
8. Preventing Unwanted Behavior: A quick recall is an effective tool for preventing or interrupting undesirable behaviors, such as digging, chewing, or chasing after wildlife. It allows you to redirect your dog’s attention and reinforce positive behaviors.
9. Enhanced Training Opportunities: Dogs that respond well to recall open up additional training opportunities. Whether it’s participating in agility courses, advanced obedience training, or simply enjoying more varied activities, a reliable recall is a prerequisite.
10. Peace of Mind: Knowing that you can call your dog back in any situation provides peace of mind for dog owners. It allows for a more enjoyable and stress-free experience when spending time with your furry companion in various environments.
To put it simply, teaching your stubborn Great Dane to come when called is a valuable and necessary process. It’s worth the time you put into it!

5 Things You Need to Teach Coming When Called

We recommend the following items in your toolkit:
- Martingale collar. These are escape-proof, so your pet cannot make a mistake
- Long biothane leash. These give your pet a sense of freedom so you can safely practice coming when called
- A good treat pouch that is easy to wear and keep clean
- High-value treats (small and easy to eat quickly are best)
- A Mini-Educator or EZ Educator E-Collar (more on this below)
Step 1: Build the Recall Foundation with Positive Reinforcement

The first step in teaching a stubborn dog to recall is establishing a solid foundation built on positive reinforcement.

Begin in a controlled environment with minimal distractions. Use your dog’s name or a specific recall cue, followed by a treat or praise when they come to you. Repeat this process!

“Fido, COME!” then offer a small treat. Do this randomly, all day long. Make it fun. Never lure your dog by showing them the treat! Always hide it until they respond to your recall cue.

For some dogs, you may have to start with them being only a foot away from you. That’s ok!

Consistency is key—reward every successful recall promptly. Positive reinforcement creates an association between coming when called and positive outcomes, making it more likely that your dog will repeat the behavior willingly.

Don’t make this mistake when training your stubborn dog to come:

Never, EVER scold your dog when they come to you! If your dog has a habit of blowing you off when you recall them, don’t punish them for it when you finally catch them.

If you find yourself correcting your pet and letting them know how unhappy you are that they weren’t listening, you are teaching the dog that coming back to you sucks. Be better than this.

Ready to get serious? Here are our recommended items for training stubborn dogs to recall!
- Martingale collar. These are escape-proof, so your pet cannot make a mistake
- Long biothane leash. These give your pet a sense of freedom so you can safely practice coming when called
- A good treat pouch that is easy to wear and keep clean
- High-value treats (small and easy to eat quickly are best)
- A Mini-Educator or EZ Educator E-Collar (more on this below)
Step 2: Add Distractions & Fun Recall Games

As your dog becomes more comfortable with basic recall in your home and around your house, gradually introduce distractions to mimic real-life scenarios.

Start with the basics and increase the difficulty over time. Use your long leash and treats to start exploring new environments and bigger distances!

Some examples might include:
- Asking your dog to come to you from 5 feet away in a new location such as your front yard
- Visiting a quiet park and practicing recall there
- Going on a hike and asking your dog to recall to you from a short distance away
Never ask your pet to recall if you aren’t positive they will comply.

If you are unsure that your pet will respond, you’re asking too much for their current education level. It’s not that they are stubborn, it’s that you just haven’t built enough value yet around recalling in higher distraction environments. That’s ok, keep working on it!

Fun Games that Teach Recall

Coming to you must be fun and rewarding! You must be more interesting and more engaging than any distraction in the environment. Here are some fun games that teach recall, to help build drive and enthusiasm in your stubborn dog!

Use Toys and Play

Tug-of-war, fetch, or incorporating favorite toys can make the training process fun for your dog. When your dog comes, instead of a treat immediately chuck a ball or a tug at them and play!

Game #1 – Hide and Seek

Introducing a game of hide and seek into your dog’s training routine can be a playful and effective way to cultivate enthusiastic recall. Tuck yourself behind a wall or door and encourage your pet to find you. When they do, shower them with praise and treats.

As you progress, extend the hiding locations and increase the difficulty, encouraging your dog’s natural instincts to search and find. Hide and seek not only strengthens the recall behavior but also adds an element of joy to the training, fostering a strong connection between you and your canine companion.

Game #2 – Hold Them Back

For this game, you need a friend to hold your dog and prevent them from coming to you.

While they hold your pet back, you RUN away. Use a squeaking toy to make sounds, wave your arms, act silly, and roll on the ground. Have FUN!

Your dog will be ANTSY to get to you. Take advantage of this and say “Fido, COME!”. Your friend can release your dog on this cue, and they will bolt to you. Reward this behavior!

Step 3: Modern E-Collar Training for Teaching Recall

At some point, you’ll be ready to ditch the long leash. But is that truly the safest and most responsible thing to do?

Let’s dig into what I call the replacement for the long leash.

This final recall trick is how we safely and confidently can have 5 Great Danes off leash!

It’s time we talk about modern E-Collar training.

All leashes and collars provide tactile feedback to your pet. This feedback is a communication to them. E-collars work the same way (we’re not talking about cheap shock collars here. Those are different). Gentle, tactile sensations in the form of muscle stimulation can be used to effectively replace the sensation of leash tension from getting to the end of a long leash.

E-Collar training can start once the dog has a solid foundation of recall. This means that you’ve followed the steps above, your dog knows what COME means, and can recall to you from short distances among reasonable distractions.

I will cover purchasing the right E-collar below. Let’s start with how to train with an E-collar first!
- Martingale collar. These are escape-proof, so your pet cannot make a mistake
- Long biothane leash. These give your pet a sense of freedom so you can safely practice coming when called
- A good treat pouch that is easy to wear and keep clean
- High-value treats (small and easy to eat quickly are best)
- A Mini-Educator or EZ Educator E-Collar (more on this below)
How to Condition a Dog to an E-Collar

Larry Krohn is a dog trainer known for his positive reinforcement-based approach, including e-collar training. Keep in mind that using an e-collar requires careful consideration and should be approached with a commitment to ethical and humane training practices. Below is a step-by-step guide based on a positive reinforcement approach inspired by Larry Krohn’s methods:

Step 1: Introduce the E-Collar as a Neutral Object Allow your dog to become familiar with the e-collar as a neutral object. Let them sniff and inspect it while associating this experience with positive reinforcement, such as treats or playtime. This helps create a positive association with seeing and wearing the e-collar.

Step 2: Find your Dog’s Working Level To find the working level, start by placing the e-collar on your dog and selecting the lowest intensity setting. Observe your dog’s reaction, looking for subtle signs like a twitch of the ear or a change in expression. Gradually increase the intensity until you notice a noticeable response, such as a slight head movement or acknowledgment of the collar. The working level is the lowest setting where you see a clear but mild reaction. It’s essential to conduct this process in a calm environment, free from distractions, and always prioritize your dog’s comfort and well-being.

Step 3: Gradual Introduction of Low-Level Stimulation Once your dog is comfortable with the collar’s sensation at the lowest level they notice, start pairing the sensation with treats. Most dogs learn very quickly that the sensation = treats. This sensation can ultimately replace the word “COME”!

Step 4: Practice Recall in Controlled Environments Initiate recall training in controlled environments with minimal distractions. Use the collar’s stimulation feature when giving the recall command, rewarding your dog for a prompt and positive response. Apply stimulation, say COME, and immediately remove the stimulation when your dog turns to run towards you. Gradually increase the level of distraction as your dog becomes more proficient.

Step 5: Gradual Exposure to Different Environments Expand recall training to different environments, exposing your dog to varying levels of distractions. This helps generalize the recall behavior across diverse settings. Ensure the e-collar is used as a tool to reinforce positive behaviors rather than as a punishment.

Step 6: Monitor and Adjust as Needed Continuously observe your dog’s reactions and adjust the e-collar settings accordingly. If your dog shows signs of stress or discomfort, reassess the training approach, and seek professional guidance if necessary.

Step 7: Utilize Continuous and Escalating Stimulation as Needed to Communicate from Afar Once your dog understands that stimulation = come to you, you can utilize slightly higher levels of stimulation and increasing pressure to reinforce the behavior in high distraction areas. For example, if your dog is chasing a squirrel or about to run into the road, you can quickly implement a higher level of communication from the collar.

Step 8: Seek Professional Guidance if Needed If you’re unsure about any aspect of e-collar training or if you encounter challenges, consider seeking guidance from a professional dog trainer experienced in positive reinforcement methods with e-collar use.

Remember, the goal is to create a positive association between the e-collar and desired behaviors, ensuring a reliable recall without causing stress or fear for your dog.

If you want a more in-depth explanation of the E-Collar conditioning process, check out Larry Krohn’s insanely easy-to-read book!

The Best E-Collars for Stubborn Dogs

When it comes to training stubborn dogs, selecting the right e-collar can make a significant difference in the training experience. We never, ever recommend purchasing cheap shock collars!

The best e-collars for stubborn dogs are those that offer adjustable stimulation levels, ensuring a tailored approach to the individual dog’s sensitivity. Models with a wide range of settings provide flexibility, allowing trainers to find the ideal intensity that effectively communicates without causing distress.

Additionally, e-collars with features like vibration or tone options offer alternatives to stimulation, providing a more versatile training experience.

Reputable brands like SportDOG, Garmin, and E-Collar Technologies are often recommended for their reliability, durability, and commitment to ethical training practices.

Our favorite brands and models are listed below:
- Martingale collar. These are escape-proof, so your pet cannot make a mistake
- Long biothane leash. These give your pet a sense of freedom so you can safely practice coming when called
- A good treat pouch that is easy to wear and keep clean
- High-value treats (small and easy to eat quickly are best)
- A Mini-Educator or EZ Educator E-Collar (more on this below)
November 27, 2023
5 Great Reasons to E-Collar Train your Dog
There are many reasons to e-collar train your dog.

Some people may be hesitant to use this type of training because they think it is cruel or inhumane. However, nothing could be further from the truth!

When used correctly, e-collar training can provide a variety of benefits for both you and your dog. In this blog post, we will discuss five of the top reasons to e-collar train your dog.

1 – Off Leash Enrichment

One of the great benefits of e-collar training is that it allows you to have your dog off-leash in a safe and controlled manner.

This type of training provides your dog with the opportunity to explore and sniff things that they would not be able to if they were on a leash!

Off-leash dogs run, walk, circle, speed up, slow down, zig-zag, climb on things, go under things, play in the water, play chase with other dogs, and bounce through fields.

This kind of enrichment simply does not happen for dogs who are kept on a long leash. As a matter of fact, allowing a dog to move naturally like that, while on a long leash, is dangerous!

Being off-leash allows them to get much-needed freedom of movement, which can greatly benefit their mental and orthopedic health, too.

When working with training your dog to be off-leash, we recommend using a long line (30-50 feet) in addition to the e-collar, but only at first.

The long line is for your dog’s safety and will give you peace of mind while they are exploring and learning how to respond to their collar.

Only take your dog fully off leash when you are confident in their training, and when you are in a safe area where it is legal to allow your dog to be free of restraint.

2 – Reduce Stress & Anxiety

Modern E-Collar training is fun and positive! It should not be associated with punishment or negativity in any way.

You can use the e-collar to help give your dog a positive association with the things they may find scary or overwhelming. Because they are able to move freely in an E-Collar and aren’t trapped by a leash, many dogs who are fearful and reactive naturally become calmer and more confident!

When we reduce stress, anxiety, and reactivity by giving our dogs choice and freedom, we are also helping to improve their immune system and overall health.

Stress is one of the proven factors in bloat risk; so it’s important that we use positive, fun training methods that reduce anxiety! Modern e-collar training is FUN and positive!

E-Collar training should always be conducted in a positive manner, with the goal of helping your dog feel happy, confident, and safe.

If you have a dog who is fearful or anxious, we recommend working with a professional trainer who can help you create a positive training environment.

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3 – No Damaging Physical Restraints

A key reason to E-Collar train your dog is the simple fact that, unlike harnesses, collars, head collars, or leashes, the E-Collar does not put any physical restraints on the dog’s body.

This is important for two reasons: first because it allows the dog to move freely without any risk of injury; and second, because pulling and lunging simply cannot happen in an E-Collar.

The gentle stimulation from a modern remote training device (e collar) replaces leash pressure. It works just like a cell phone; when your cell phone rings, you answer it. Your dog will learn to ‘answer their phone’.

Because there is no physical pressure or restraint, many timid and reactive dogs become more balanced and well-rounded!

Large and giant breed dogs are plagued with a number of orthopedic health conditions that can make traditional training tools such as ‘no-pull harnesses’ and head collars dangerous.

E-Collar training is a great way to provide your dog with the freedom they need and crave, while still keeping them safe and under your control.

Never again will your large or giant breed dog drag you down the street, and hurt themselves (or you) in the process!

There are many different types of e-collars on the market, so it’s important to do your research and find one that is right for you and your dog.

A modern e-collar is not the same thing as a shock collar. We use and recommend only collars by E Collar Technologies.

4 – Safety

One of the most important benefits of E-Collar training is the safety it provides for both you and your dog.

An e-collar can be used as a ‘virtual fence’, preventing your dog from running into traffic, chasing wildlife, or getting lost.

A dog that jumps the fence, runs out of the door, or is running around uncontrollably off-leash with nothing on is a liability to itself and to others.

When you choose to e-collar train your dog, you are choosing safety for your pet!

An e-collar-trained dog is amazing reliable off-leash, which gives you peace of mind knowing that your dog will come back to you when called, no matter what.

The added safety an e-collar provides is one of the main reasons we recommend remote collar training for all dogs!

5 – Responsible Dog Ownership

Being a responsible dog owner means making sure your dog is well-behaved and under control at all times.

An e-collar can help you do just that!

E-Collar training provides you with a positive, gentle, modern way to keep your dog safe and under control in any situation, whether you’re out on a hike, at the beach, or even just in your own yard.

By training your dog to be responsive to you off-leash, you reduce the need for physical restraint and increase the chances that you have a calm, friendly canine citizen who can be with you anywhere you go.

Other Reasons to E-Collar Train

Here are just some additional benefits:
- Simple way to communicate accurately and quickly from a distance
- No more tangled up long leashes
- Gentle & positive training method
- Pulling, lunging and leash reactivity become a thing of the past
- You may never have to worry again about about a door left open, broken fence or your dog running away
- Go hiking, explore the beach, visit a friend or hang out in your front yard with no worries at all
- Incredible solution for deaf dogs that will give them freedom!
Do you have questions about modern e-collar training?

We are happy to answer any questions you have, give you more reasons to e-collar train, and help you get started on the path to responsible dog ownership!

E-Collar Technologies has a wide variety of e-collars and training resources to fit your needs. Visit our shop to see more!

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Here is another great article on reasons to e-collar train your dog, directly from E Collar Technologies!

READ MORE:

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June 22, 2022
Great Dane Recall with an E Collar: The Ultimate Guide
Teaching a Great Dane E collar recall can be difficult, but it’s not impossible. In this dog training guide, we will discuss the best ways to provide recall for dog owners.

Read on to be able to provide your dog off leash freedom.

We’ll also cover how to use clicker training and positive reinforcement training. These skills are useful for the purpose of stopping the behavioral issues and getting reliable recall in your dog’s training. By following these tips, you can teach your giant breed dog recall with an e collar with this highly recommended training method.

Before Teaching Recall with an E Collar You Need Foundational Skills

It is highly recommend that you practice foundational training skills before teaching recall with a training collar. Teaching recall with an e collar is NOT a basic skill. Work on foundational skills first. These skills include: training on a flat collar/gentle leader, loose leash skills, and helping your dog to stop pulling on the leash. Your Great Dane should master basic skills before you begin teaching recall with an e collar.
Again, is crucial to teach basic skills before beginning to teach your Great Dane any type of recall.
It is important that every dog owner teach these basic skills. Foundational learning happens before beginning to teach your Great Dane Recall with an E collar.
You can work with a professional trainer to establish how to use these collars on big dogs. Also ask them to help maintain control over their off leash recall. Teaching recall with an e collar sometimes requires professional help, depending on your comfort level.

See Which E-collars We Love Here

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Different Methods of Teaching Skills Necessary Prior to Training Recall with an E Collar

Remember that it is important that your dog is trained prior to beginning training recall with an e collar. We put together a short list of a few methods in which you can help your dog learn foundational skills.

Clicker Training

Clicker training is a type of positive reinforcement training that uses a clicker tool to mark desired behaviors. The sound of the clicker tells the dog that they have done something right and that they will be rewarded with a treat.

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Clicker training is a very fast and effective way to train dogs, and it can be used for basic obedience commands or more complex behaviors. Clicker training is a great way to build a positive relationship with your dog while teaching them new things!

One of the great things about clicker training is that it is very easy to get started. All you need is a clicker tool and some tasty treats that your dog loves. You will also need to find a quiet place to train where there are no distractions. Once you have all of your supplies, you can start training your dog!

To begin, you will want to click the clicker tool and immediately give your dog a treat. Do this several times so that your dog associates the sound of the clicker with getting a treat.

Next, you will want to start teaching your dog some basic obedience commands. For example, you can start with the command “sit”. To teach this command, hold a treat in front of your dog’s nose and slowly move it upwards until they sit down. As soon as they sit down, click the clicker tool and give them the treat. Repeat this process until your dog is consistently sitting on command.

Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement training is a type of operant conditioning. It rewards desired behavior in order to increase the likelihood of that behavior being repeated. Positive reinforcement is a way of “reinforcing” or encouraging a desired behavior. It does so by providing a pleasant consequence after the behavior is displayed. The most common form of this is giving a dog a treat after it has performed a desired behavior. This can be done after they sit or lay.

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One of the main advantages of positive reinforcement training is that it is relatively easy to learn and can be used with both dogs and other animals.

Additionally, positive reinforcement training is often considered to be more humane than other types of training methods, such as punishment or dominance-based training. Finally, positive reinforcement is a very versatile form of training and can be used to teach a wide variety of behaviors.

There are a few things to keep in mind when using positive reinforcement training. Make sure the rewards you use are meaningful to your dog and that you deliver the rewards consistently.

Additionally, remember that positive reinforcement is not a magic bullet and will not work instantly. It may take some time and patience for your dog to learn the desired behavior. However, when done correctly, positive reinforcement training is a safe, humane, and effective tool.

Great Dane Recall with an Electric Collar: What is it?

Recall is an important skill for any Great Dane, or any dog, to learn. Following commands is a basic part of dog training and a vital/essential part of training a Great Dane. Teaching your Great Dane recall with an E collar may be one of the most important things you ever teach them. Why? Because one day, it could protect them from dangers or even save their life!

Shock collars or bark collars are very different than e collars. Many people stumble upon articles about training collars when looking up the best shock collar for training their dog in behavior. Recall, pulling, or other unwanted behaviors are common problems. Many times, owners resort to shock collars or bark collars for these common behaviors.

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There is a difference between a shock collar and an e-collar. We will discuss which training tool is better. Before training your dogs with any shock collar, please be sure to investigate the differences between a shock collar and e collars.

Great Dane Recall with an E-collar: Why does it matter?

Using e-collars in training Great Danes (even a young Great Dane) allows you to train them to come back to you when they are off leash, which can be helpful in many situations. Teaching recall with an e collar provides safety, something that all pet parents value for their pets.

There are certain situations where the behavior of running off can be life threatening for dogs. Any experienced trainer will tell you that you must work on this behavior while your dog is a puppy in order to build focus and control. If you are concerned that your Great Dane might run off, run into the street, or even run away, you should consider teaching them recall with an e collar.

The ability to train your dog (or two dogs) to return when called is, of course, an important skill for any Great Dane to learn because it can help keep them safe. Teaching recall with an e collar allows you to provide your Great Dane with freedom to run and play, while also protecting them.

If your Great Dane ever gets off leash and runs away, being able to call them back to you can mean the difference between life or death. For example, if your dog is getting too close to a busy road, you can call them back to you before they have a chance to run into traffic. For that reason, we believe that teaching a Great Dane recall with an e collar is one of the most valuable lessons you can teach them.

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If your dog is focused on their owner, a command can be given which could save their life.

We believe that recall is one of the most important skills that any owner of dogs can teach, since safety is so important, from puppy to adulthood.

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Many want to jump directly to more flashy ‘quick fixes’ such as training their dog with a shock collar or training their Great Danes with the ‘best shock collars’ for fast training, but rest assured: It is always best to start dog training on a standard collar and providing solid a solid command that your dog will understand throughout life.

Additionally, using a shock collar in training your Great Dane can actually instill fear and intimidation, which could result in them becoming more defiant.

Step 1 to Teaching Recall with an E Collar: The Importance of Dog Training with a Leash

Before you begin teaching recall with an e collar, you must follow step one. Practice basic skills before you start teaching your Great Dane higher level skills with any training collar.

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Working on a flat collar or regular collar will help ensure that your dog is listening to you and following your commands the entire time that you are out on walks together.

The foundation of teaching a Great Dane recall with an e-collar begins with basic, good citizen skills on a basic collar.

Training your Great Dane starts the day you bring them home. Dogs begin learning at birth, when they are born blind and deaf in a world they have to navigate!

When you meet your Great Dane, it becomes your responsibility to help them be the best dogs that they can be.

Steps to training your dogs

There are several steps you can take to build strong foundational skills:
1. Use a lead and collar that is comfortable for both you and your dog. This will help make walks more enjoyable for both of you and prevent any potential injuries, pulling or focus issues.
2. Start with short walks around the block or in your neighborhood with your dog. As your dog gets better at walking on a standard collar, you can gradually increase the length of and, at times, command them to wait next to you in a ‘heel’ position.
3. Make sure to provide plenty of positive reinforcement training during walks. This can include treats, petting, or verbal praise. There is an abundance of videos on how to include positive reinforcement while you train.
1. If your dog starts to pull on walks, stop walking and wait for them to calm down before continuing to give them any further commands. Pulling can be a sign of over-stimulation, and you should train this behavior with small and frequent training sessions to help dogs remain calm and collected.
2. You can utilize other tools during foundational dog training such as a prong collar, regular/flat collar, or a verbal command to help your dog train in a correct way.
3. Work on maintaining eye contact with your dog during walks. This training method will help your dog to focus on you and listen to your commands the correct way.
By following these steps and working with your Great Danes, you can build strong skills help them focus and not pull. Once you have a correct foundation, you can start on the course of working on teaching higher level skills with a training collar.

Please note:

Using a training tool such as a prong collar or e-collar is very different than a shock collar. We do not promote training your Great Danes or other dogs with the use of shock collars.

Using shock collars as a form of training is unethical and can have an impact on the way your dog views life, accepts a command, or represents the breed in regards to temperament and disposition. We do not recommend anybody to shock their Great Danes, and will not be recommending any shock collar or discussing the ‘best shock collar’ to train your dogs.

An honest review comparing the e-collar 300 and the e-collar 900.

Once your Great Dane has basic leash skills, you can begin the process of teaching them recall with a long leash.

Step 2 to Teaching a Great Dane Recall with an E Collar: Using a long leash

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Long leashes are very helpful when teaching recall because they allow your dog to have some freedom while still being under your control.

There are a few things to keep in mind when using a long leash:
- Make sure the long leash is long enough to provide freedom.
- Attach the leash to a comfortable collar and find a space with plenty of room (20 feet or more).
- Start by calling your Great Dane’s name and then giving the command to come. As they start to walk towards you, praise them and give them a treat.
- If your dog does not come when called, do not pull on the leash or drag them towards you. This will only make them scared or resistant to coming when called.
(If you need more information on the important difference between a SHOCK (sharp static correction meant to scare/startle) collar and an E-Collar (gentle muscle stimulation meant to work as a communication), read our blog post here).

It is now time to discuss the different settings on your e-collar. You will need to know these settings in order to teach recall on a long leash. Please note, when discussing these settings, we are referring to e-collar technology 900 series.
- Continual Stim– This is when the e-collar is sending a continuous signal to your dog. During continual stim, hold down the stim button.
- Momentary Stim– This is when the e-collar sends a signal to your dog for a brief moment. This is the most common setting used, but not always the best, depending on the dog’s personality.
- High Performance/Boost– This setting is a mix of both continual and momentary stim. It starts off with momentary stim and automatically switches to continual stim if your dog does not respond.
Now that you understand the different settings on your e-collar, it is time to discuss how to properly use them when teaching recall.

Step 3 to teaching Recall with an E Collar: Timing

E-collar training (even while on a long leash) is all about timing.

When your Great Dane is on the end of the long leash, apply a bit of leash pressure, and direct them to come towards you with the word “come”. At the same time, press and hold your stim button (at their working level) with your e-collar programed to ‘Continual’ stim.

Watch your Great Dane and the MOMENT they turn their body to move towards you, begin dialing the ecollar down slowly with your thumb.

You will also want to use a marker word, such as ‘YES’.

Use the marker word when they turn their bodies to you. Using a marker word allows your Great Dane to understand the exact movement that you expect from them, and feel rewarded for it.

Think of it almost like a game of ‘hot and cold’. If your Great Dane moves closer when hearing the ‘come’ command, you get ‘colder’. If they move further, you get hotter!

Click for an 81 page guide to set up and use your new device

Play this game consistently and daily so that your Great Dane knows what the word “come” means and associates it with returning quickly.

Step 4 to Teaching Recall with an E Collar: Introduce a Safe, Off-Leash Practice Area

Next, we will introduce a safe place for your Great Dane to practice recall without a leash.

Find a large fenced area where they can run around freely. It is important that the fenced area is secure and escape-proof.

When your Great Dane is off the leash, supervise them at all times. Do not leave them unsupervised even in a fenced area for risk of danger.

Additionally, you want to make sure that this ‘practice area’ is very low distraction.

Areas that would make bad practice spots may include dog parks, busy public parks, or areas that may remind them of fun memories they’ve had with friends.

Areas that make great practice spots include large backyards, quiet/empty parks away from streets, or fenced in, dog-friendly areas with no other dogs present.

Once you have found your practice location, begin implementing the same procedure of the ‘hot and cold’ technique, without the long leash this time.

Make sure to heavily reward them when they return by using the marker word, lowering the stim, and using treats (if you want).

The lifestyle of freedom, fun and exploration is waiting for you.

Step 5 to Teaching Recall with an E Collar: Practice Makes Perfect with Your Great Dane

Using any tool in training with your dog/dogs is going to take dedication and time. Great Danes require patience in their training and the use of electric collars is not a quick fix. Be patient with your dog and remember that this training skill is something that is going to take time.

Even though people claim that shock collars are an ‘overnight fix’ in training their dogs, we recommend taking the time to train slowly and patiently with your dog on a reliable training collar such as the devices we highly recommend.

If you’re interested in purchasing one, be sure to check out our favorite collars for training dogs here:

We hope that you and your Great Dane love the process of learning recall as much as we do. The lifestyle of freedom, fun and exploration is waiting for you. Hard work and patience will pay off! Be sure to reach out with any questions you have.

Read more:

Off-Color & Designer Great Danes
March 16, 2022
From Running Away to Off-Leash: Recall for Great Danes Is The #1 Most Important Skill
Recall for Great Danes is the difference between you screaming at your Great Dane while they run off at the terrified mailman and you enjoying a nice, peaceful walk.

Coming when called is arguably the most important skill you can teach your Great Dane.

We believe that off-leash obedience is a MUST for our giant-breed dogs!

Having off-leash freedom means that your dog will be able to move, explore and exercise without the use of frustrating physical restraints such as long leashes, harnesses and collars.

Does your dog:
- Bolt out of doors
- Jump fences
- Run away
- Ignore you when you say ‘COME!’, often blowing you completely off?
- Make you chase them
- Lunge and pull on a leash
- Have to always be on a long leash
This post is for you. We’re going to show you how to take your Great Dane from running away to being completely OFF LEASH!

RECALL FOR GREAT DANES: BUILD A FOUNDATION

Good recall starts with a good foundation.
- Use positive reinforcement to teach your dog that when you say ‘COME’, good things happen!
- Positive reinforcement means treats, praise, play, fun, games, attention, affection and access to things such as freedom, a car ride or a room they want to be in.
- Practice in a low distraction area such as the living room or backyard.
- Don’t let your dog off-leash until you know you can count on them.
- Incorporate food rewards heavily if your dog is learning.
- Never scold your dog for blowing you off; you’ll only teach them to run farther (and faster) away from you next time.
E-COLLARS FOR RECALL

The modern E-Collar is THE most gentle, humane and reliable training tool available. It is not a shock collar and will not hurt your dog. Shock collars are different, and we don’t use those here. Bark collars are also different- more on that here.
E-Collars work by causing a barely perceptible muscle stimulation that feels like a tickle or a twitch, which is much more gentle than the constant pressure and restrictions offered by a harness or leash.

Matter of fact, a harness could actually be HURTING your dog!

E-Collar training is one of the most responsible and humane things you can do as the owner of a giant breed dog! Think of it like a walkie-talkie; with it, you’ll be able to communicate even when you are in a noisy environment (the beach) or your dog is far away (on a hiking trail).

If your dog ignores you when you call them- check out our recall resources.

Even if you think modern E-Collars are ‘abuse’ (they aren’t) and even if you plan to use ‘only’ positive reinforcement (works for some dogs, not all), we encourage you to read and learn!
Read more here

We do not stand behind the practice of using cheap shock collars on ‘beep, vibrate or shock’ as an easy-button training method. If you are waving a remote at your dog as a threat so they stop and run away, you’re doing it wrong. The goal is to make your dog WANT to come to you.

RELIABLE RECALL TOOLS FOR GREAT DANES

10 Things To Know If You Are a Great Dane Owner

10 Tips for Caring for Great Danes

Quality E-Collars are typically $175 or more. They are waterproof, rugged and use modern technology.

Cheap shock collars from Petsmart and Amazon are not the same and cannot be used for this.

We use and recommend E-Collar Technologies. The Mini-Educator is a perfect simple easy-to-use collar, while the Easy Educator is great if you have multiple dogs.

We recommend using a Mini-Educator, high-value treats and a biothane long leash.

The sensation from this collar feels like ants crawling around or a gentle tapping. It does not hurt or punish. This stimulation is so gentle that dogs are enthusiastic and responsive at levels that humans cannot feel.

HOW E-COLLARS WORK FOR RECALL

E-Collars work by giving the dog a tactile cue to return to you.

Instead of shouting COME, your dog will feel the sensation and run to you. It should not make them feel afraid or fearful.
In the introduction phase, the dog is taught through positive reinforcement that the neutral muscle stimulation means treats, praise, play and fun. Because they have a positive association with this new sensation, they are enthusiastic and want to learn!

For dogs that are more interested in the environment than coming when called, the stimulation can be used at a higher level. This higher level will get their attention, exactly how you may have to turn your cell phone up, or how somebody may have to shout to get your attention at a loud concert.

When your cell phone rings, you answer it. The ringing may be mildly annoying but is not painful or punishing.
Answering it makes the sound go away, and you are rewarded by the voice of your friend on the other end of the line.
A modern E-Collar is a cell phone, a long leash is a land line, and a dog wearing nothing at all is a liability.

GETTING STARTED

We are linking some resources below for you to get started with E-Collar and recall training for your Great Dane! Before you get started, we encourage you to watch as much positive E-Collar content (two trainers we recommend are below) as possible, and work with a modern E-Collar trainer who uses positive methods.

Here is a video of a trainer (Tom Davis, Upstate K-9) using an E-Collar on a client so they can see how ‘shocking’ it is.
Fast forward to 2:52 to see that part of the video, especially if you are new to E-Collars or believe they will hurt!

Teaching recall to a dog using an E-Collar with Tom Davis:

Positive-Balanced Great Dane Trainers

Larry Krohn is an expert on modern E-Collar use. All dog owners should watch his content.

Larry Krohn on Youtube, demonstrating the E-Collar on his daughter:

Larry Krohn’s book, ‘Everything You Need to Know About E-Collar Training’

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February 24, 2022
Halo Dog Collar Review (Our Honest take)
Today we are giving you our detailed, unpaid Halo Dog Collar review! The Halo Collar is a dog training collar that in theory, allows your dog to be off-leash anywhere you go. If you’ve found this popular post on our site, awesome! That means you are a dedicated pet owner looking to safely and humanely get your pup off-leash. We love that!

People are interested in the Halo Dog training collar (and now the Halo 3 for dogs) because it offers something no other device has yet: automated boundaries for your dog using a phone app. Allow me to clarify:

The idea is amazing. Put this Halo Collar on your dog, draw a boundary on a map in the phone app, and the collar will keep your dog inside of the boundary (with some training, of course!).

Imagine the possibilities! This is an idea that many people have asked about but no company had done gracefully yet. Many other similar boundary collars and invisible fences for dogs are clunky, huge, and unreliable. Underground boundary fences can be hard to install (not to mention expensive!). Worse, many other off-leash training fences utilize painful shocks that cause dogs to scream and fear being in the yard.

The Halo Dog Collars are marketed as a modern, more humane, and more effective alternative to traditional invisible shock fences.

The difference between a Halo 3 collar and an invisible fence is huge.

We were DEFINITELY intrigued and know that a lot of Great Dane owners are asking about Halo, Halo 2+, and Halo 3 Collar reviews.

This is our review of the HALO dog Collar by Cesar Milan. Is this a Halo Collar buyer beware, or a Halo Collar buyer buy it? Read on, friends…

Does the Halo 3 Dog Collar Shock the Dog?

The Halo Dog Collar uses tone, voice corrections, and stimulation.

Stimulation is an electrical current that causes the muscle to twitch. Think of this like a tactile sensation, no different than leash tension or touch. When used at low levels, muscle stimulation can be used as a positive tactile communication. This sensation is not the same as ‘shock’ and should not cause negative associations or feelings for dogs that are trained properly to understand what it means.

On the other hand, when used at high levels, muscle stimulation is an aversive sensation that can be used as a correction. However, at low levels, it is an incredible tool that replaces leash tension.

Think of it this way:

Shock = sharp poke with a stick
Low level stimulation = gentle leash pressure
High level stimulation = stronger leash pressure + squeeze pressure from a collar

Shock (which is intended to be painful) and stimulation (which is intended to be a gentle tactile sensation) are two different things.

While Halo pet collar did NOT pioneer modern stimulation like what is used in E-Collar technologies e-collars, they are using stimulation (not shock) in the Halo, Halo 2, and Halo 3 collar. Modern stimulation collars are the ONLY kind we recommend, so Halo gets 5 stars from us for this!

Halo Dog Containment Systems Reviews – What is the Halo Dog Collar?

The Halo, Halo 2, and Halo 3 Dog collar is an automated E-Collar. It uses sound, vibration, and electronic stimulation to teach and reinforce invisible boundaries. This can keep your dog safe while off-leash!

Imagine this. You create a virtual fence using the Halo App on your phone. In this example, you might draw a map that is meant to keep your dog on your front lawn.

As your dog approaches the boundary of the edge of the lawn, the collar lets the dog know that they are nearing it. If the dog chooses to disregard the first communication, the collar can use stimulation (a form of pressure) to discourage continued movement towards the boundary. It will then reward them for turning away from the boundary (back onto your lawn, yay!).

From what we understand, the user has a lot of control over how corrections are implemented and used. This is very helpful because every dog is different!

The collar will, with training, keep your dog inside of that invisible fence. This could be very helpful technology! We definitely like the concept.

If your dog gets out of the boundary that you set, despite warnings and corrections, a feature it built in that will allow you to find your dog with the included GPS tracker. This is a nice feature.

The Halo collar retails for nearly $1000 (yes, you read that correctly!) but is occasionally seen offered at around $699.

2023 Update: The Halo 3 has been released with updates to the GPS capabilities and overall build.

Is There a Monthly Fee for the Halo Collar?

Yes, there is a monthly fee associated with the Halo Collar app.

We have noticed that it’s something many buyers are VERY surprised by!

The monthly fees to use the required app are an additional cost. Without a paid monthly subscription, the features of the Halo Dog Collar are very limited.

The Cesar dog collar comes in two colors and three sizes; the largest size Collar expands to 30.5″ and may or may not fit a giant breed dog. Measure your dogs neck before ordering!

Now, if you have spent any time on our site, you know that we support ethical, positive, and humane E-Collar use.

We are not going to have any issue at all with the concept of the Halo Collar as an electric training device. Keeping a dog safe by using tactile electric communication is one of the most gentle, humane, and responsible things dog owners can do.

How Well Does the Halo Collar Work?

The idea behind the Halo Collar is that it automates boundary training. It’s kind of like a modern ‘invisible fence’.

The Halo marketing department focuses heavily on this tool easily giving dogs off-leash freedom anywhere you go. How cool would it be to go camping, and be able to keep your pup on your campsite?

It’s important to note that all training devices require diligent training and conditioning. The Halo, Halo 2, and Halo 3 are no exception. Do not expect to put this collar on your dog and be quickly and easily safely off leash anywhere you go.

Because it works on GPS and a phone APP, your dog’s safety relies on the system not experiencing a technical failure of some kind.

As with ANY training tool, it also relies on your ability to follow the training instructions and work with your dog on a regular basis.

If the Halo 3 collar gps system is functioning and you’ve spent time teaching your dog how to respond to the communications from the Halo Collar, it can absolutely work beautifully!

The Halo Dog Collar by Cesar Milan

People are Talking: Real-Life Halo Dog Collar Reviews

Unfortunately, there have reports from people that their smart off-leash dog collar has broken, stopped functioning, doesn’t work, and is cheaply made.

A lot of people on Youtube cite that the original Halo collar is made primarily of weak plastic parts which may fail and leave your dog unprotected. Halo made improvements to their dog off-leash collar with the Halo 2, and we are optimistic that the Halo 3 is a game changer!

JUNE 2022 UPDATE: We’ve read that Halo has supposedly completely fixed and updated many reported issues.

If you are looking to purchase a Halo Collar for your dog, you should in theory feel much more confident in the newer model. We are giving this some time before updating our review with information about the quality and consistency of the newer version.

GPS Automation Failures on the Halo Wireless Fence

There have been some reports out there that the GPS aspect of the collar, on the original and currently updated version, can at times be unreliable. This is largely related to the nature of technology and GPS.

Unreliable electronics and poor use of corrections are a massive reason that we never advocate for the use of cheap shock collars (remember, a properly used E-Collar is different).

Normally we say to stay away from cheap shock collars….but this device isn’t cheap! We believe that a solid amount of technology and research has gone into this device.

How the Halo Dog Training Collar Works

IF the Halo collar is actually functioning properly with a strong, reliable GPS connection to the ‘fence’ you built in the app, you do still have to work on training.

Don’t be made to believe that this is an ‘easy fix’ to a well-trained dog.

Proper conditioning and training are important with any training tool, including harnesses, so this is to be expected. However, this training should be fun and easy!

The Cesar dog collar functions by using a tone or audible voice and then static (muscle stimulation) to remind dogs to turn away from a boundary.

The company does say you have to train your dog how to respond to the collar, and the app walks you through the process. It’s automated, but not automatic.

Once your dog understands how to respond to the communication from the collar, you should be able to draw a boundary and have your dog understand it, almost anywhere that you go.

The collar will issue sounds, verbal communications, and static stimulation as needed to direct your dog into the boundary.

Is the Halo Collar Worth It?

The price of the Halo Dog Collar is premium, there is no question about that. For some dog owners, this is cost prohibitive. A simple long leash can accomplish a similar thing for much, much less.

As before, we are hopeful that recent updates to their device will give millions of dogs a valuable opportunity to be off-leash! The Halo Collar may be the ideal solution for you if:
- You don’t have a fence
- You regularly visit people where there is no fence
- You like to go camping and want your dog to stay within a boundary of the tent site
- You want a simple, user-friendly training tool
- You don’t mind automating parts of your off-leash training
- You have a dog that likes to learn, likes to be near you and already has a least a basic recall
- Your pet is not reactive or aggressive, or has reactivity that is well managed
SUMMARY

Now that you’ve read our Halo Dog Collar review, would you buy one?

Do we think you should buy a Halo dog collar?

Do we believe that the Halo 3 for Dogs is a solid update to what was previously a somewhat unreliable product?

I am optimistic in my belief that the Halo Dog Collar is a great choice for many pet owners. We LOVE that they no longer focus so much on their relationship with Cesar Milan (a very controversial dog trainer), and that they are continually improving their products.

The main reason we’d recommend a HALO collar is for people who cannot build a physical fence around their property and want something slightly more flexible than a traditional invisible fence.

Halo Dog Treats Reviews

Are Halo dog treats legit? Some people confuse the Halo Collar with the Halo dog food and dog treats company.

We do not recommend Halo Dog food, but the treats may be ok!
August 23, 2021
Should I Take My Great Dane to the Dog Park?
Dogs parks look like so much fun. The idea of a large fenced area for off-leash fun is very appealing!

There are times when it’s appropriate to take your Great Dane to a dog park and times when it is not.

Read on for more information about dog parks, Great Danes, and when and if your dog is ready to participate.

AGE

No dog under the age of 4 or 5 months should be visiting a dog park.

Dog parks can harbor parasites and disease that may be harmful to your puppy, especially considering that your dog is not likely to be fully vaccinated yet.

Additionally, dog parks are not good places for socializing young puppies. As a matter of fact, one bad experience can ruin a puppy for life.

Do you want your puppy to grow up to be a ‘dog park’ dog, or to like other dogs?

Don’t ruin this opportunity with forced exposure.

Taking your puppy to a dog park and keeping him on a leash for ‘safety’ so he ‘learns’ is how you may actually cause leash reactivity, fear of other dogs and aggression.

Focus your young puppy time on positive experiences, calm engagement with you, and basic obedience.

SOCIAL SKILLS

Good ‘Dog Park Dogs’ are well socialized, confident, calm and have excellent social skills.

They also know LEAVE IT and COME.

Many of those skills can actually be learned in a well-run obedience training and puppy socialization class.

A dog that has good social skills is more likely to walk away from conflict, rather than into it:

They are confident in new situations.

They are not fearful of puppies, dogs or people and have no history of aggression towards any of them.

They know how to respect other dogs signals and body language.

Dog parks are hotbeds for aggression and rude interactions between dogs. Even a docile, well socialized and otherwise calm dog may find himself in a tense, escalating situation and will react accordingly.

Many dog owners are unaware of the difference between healthy play and behaviors that may lead to tension or a fight. This is the reason that dog parks in general get a bad name.

TENSION AT THE DOG PARK

If you see any of these signs or situations from your dog or a dog you meet, say ‘Let’s Go’ and walk your dog away from the situation.
- Stiff tail wags and stiff bodies paired with hackles and possibly bared teeth while greeting.
- One dog standing over the other and baring teeth, growling or snapping at the other.
- One dog with a toy or treat that is stiff, baring teeth and/or growling
- Dogs coming into the gate that are extremely wound up: screaming, barking, howling.
- Dogs on leashes inside of the dog park.
- A dog that corners, chases, rolls, shoves, or pins another dog when not part of mutual play.
- A group of dogs that are ‘ganging up’ on others.
Don’t mistake chasing, rolling, cornering, shoving, humping, or other pushy behaviors as ‘cute’ or ‘friendly’.

If your dog is subjected to this, and especially if your dog is clearly afraid (tail tucked, trying to escape, hiding, snapping) get your dog OUT of that situation.

Move on, no matter what the owner of the other dog says about their dog being ‘friendly’ and ‘just saying hi’.

On the flip side, do not allow your dog to be the rude pushy one either. This kind of behavior is extremely inappropriate and can lead to snapping, fights, injury and poor socialization experiences.

HEALTHY DOG PLAY SIGNALS

These are the signs that your dog, and that other dogs nearby and having fun at the dog park:
- Loose, wiggly bodies (free of tension)
- Indifference (calmly walking away from conflict, not towards it or engaging it)
- Loose waving tail (not stiff or tucked)
- Neutral ears (not pinned back)
- Play bows (bum up)
- Bouncing, exaggerated movements
- Shake off and occasional breaks
- Body to body slamming
- Taking turns (you bite me, I bite you, you chase me, I chase you).
- Self-handicap (gentle with smaller dogs)
SOCIALIZING THE AGGRESSIVE DOG

I was recently at a very large dog park attending a Great Dane meetup.

A person walked by with a huge Great Dane on a gentle leader. This dog was extremely anxious and on edge, ready to hurt somebody or another dog.

He was lunging, snarling and snapping. It was all his owner could do to keep him in control.

I suspect the owner was there attempting to ‘socialize’ his dog, but he was actually making the problem worse.

Doing this is extremely unfair to the polite, well socialized dogs and puppies that should otherwise feel safe in that environment, and extremely unfair to his anxious dog who needed respect, training, guidance, and appropriate behavior modification under the guidance of a professional.

If your dog is aggressive, anxious, unpredictable and hard to control you should NOT be visiting dog parks.

SIGNS YOUR DOG SHOULD LEAVE THE DOG PARK
- Humping (sign of overstimulation).
- Lunging/screaming at the gate to get in or out.
- Harassing others (cornering, chasing).
- Chasing, cornering & pinning others (when not part of a mutual game).
- Barking, lunging, grabbing and pouncing on dogs that have not engaged in play.
- Tail tucked, shaking, scared, running away.
- Running off, ignoring your requests to ‘LEAVE IT’ and ‘COME’.
- Standing over dogs and baring teeth or growling.
- Nipping, lunging, snapping and other similar warnings to others.
- Aggression (biting, intent to harm).
Great Danes are giant breed dogs that can be intimidating to children and other dogs, even when you know that they are as gentle as can be.

Respect the fact that others may not see your Great Dane the same way that you do, and make sure that your Great Dane gives people and dogs space when it’s clear they need it.

One of the best things we can do as Great Dane owners to change the perception others may have about Giant Breed dogs is to train them, socialize them, and make sure that they truly are the calm, benevolent Apollo of dogs.
January 14, 2021