How to use a long line for safe recall training.

You will often hear trainers say that recall training should start as early as possible — and I completely agree.

Puppies naturally want to stay close to us. If we move too far away, they’ll often come racing back as fast as their little legs will carry them. This natural instinct gives us the perfect opportunity to begin recall training early. Every time your puppy runs towards you, simply add your chosen recall cue.

That said, letting a puppy off lead can feel a bit daunting. This is why I always recommend using a long line for recall training. It gives you peace of mind while also keeping your puppy, and others, safe.

Most puppies assume everyone is their friend and will happily charge over to say hello. For some people and dogs, that’s lovely… but for others, it can be quite overwhelming or even frightening.

What Is a Long Line?

A long line is exactly what it sounds like — a long lead, usually around 10 metres.

They’re typically made from:

  • Webbing (can get heavy and soggy in wet weather)
  • Biothane (a rubberised material that stays lightweight but is usually more expensive)

What a Long Line Isn’t

A long line isn’t just an extra-long lead for your dog to wander around on.

Instead, think of it as an emergency brake.

Dogs learn through reinforcement:

  • If they come back to you → they get rewarded
  • If they run off to something more exciting → that becomes the reward

If your puppy regularly ignores recall and runs off, they’re learning that ignoring you works out quite well for them.

How to Use a Long Line for Recall Training

The long line allows you to interrupt that decision before it becomes rewarding.

Think of it like a brake on a car.

If your puppy spots something exciting and ignores your recall cue, you can gently stop them reaching it — preventing them from reinforcing the “ignore and run off” behaviour.

The Basic Sequence:

  1. Get your puppy’s attention (word or whistle)
  2. Give your recall cue
  3. Pause
  4. If they continue away from you → gently apply the “brake”

Once you’ve stopped them, give them a moment to think.

  • If they choose to come back → brilliant, reward generously
  • If they don’t → calmly walk up the long line (hand-over-hand or physically walking towards them)

Once you reach them:

  • Ask for a simple behaviour they know (e.g. sit)
  • Reward
  • Then move off again

What NOT to Do

Avoid using the long line to reel your puppy in like a fishing line.

We want them choosing to come back — not being dragged.

A Simple Training Goal

I like to set little challenges when using a long line.

Your goal is to recall your puppy before they reach the end of the line.

If you can do that, it means:

  • They’re responding to your cue
  • Not just being stopped by the line

(That’s definitely a moment for a quiet little celebration 😄)

Phasing Out the Long Line

It’s important to remember that the long line becomes part of your recall picture.

If you suddenly remove it, your puppy may respond differently because the “picture” has changed.

Instead, gradually reduce it:

  • Start shortening the line over time
  • Trim it down bit by bit
  • Eventually remove it completely

(And yes… waiting until after adolescence is usually wise!)

Safety Tips for Using a Long Line

  • Always attach the long line to a harness, not a collar
  • Avoid using it during off-lead play with other dogs (it can get tangled)

If you need to call your puppy away from play, try:

  • A hand touch
  • A “find it” or “hidden treasure” game

When to Use a Long Line

Even if your puppy is doing brilliantly, it’s a good idea to use a long line:

  • In new environments
  • In exciting or high-distraction areas

New smells and surroundings can temporarily “switch off” even a well-trained recall.

Using a long line for recall training gives your puppy freedom while keeping things safe and controlled.

Most importantly — make it fun. Your puppy should enjoy their freedom and love coming back to you.

f you’d like help with your puppy’s recall training, feel free to get in touch — I’d love to help. It is something we can do on a 1-2-1 basis or if you prefer to get the whole picture puppy classes may be the answer.