Developing the Follower Mindset in Dogs Through Tone Recall
Training a dog to adopt a follower mindset is an essential part of fostering a strong and healthy relationship between pet and owner. In this educational article, we will explore how tone recall and e-collar stimulation can establish this mindset effectively. Rosie, a dog undergoing a three-week board-and-train program, serves as an example of these techniques in action.
Introduction to Tone Recall
Tone recall is a method that combines a sound cue (tone) and light e-collar stimulation to teach dogs to respond consistently to their handler. The goal is to develop a reliable recall behavior where the dog comes back to the handler whenever called, regardless of distractions. This technique is especially effective for fostering calmness, improving focus, and reinforcing obedience.
Why Tone Recall?
Safety: Prevents dogs from running into dangerous situations, such as oncoming traffic or unfamiliar environments.
Communication: Builds a structured way for dogs to understand commands using auditory cues.
Trust: Enhances the relationship between dog and owner by establishing clear expectations and reducing confusion.
Step-by-Step Approach to Training
1. Introducing the E-Collar
The trainer begins by allowing the dog to experience mild e-collar stimulation paired with a leash. This method ensures that the sensation is introduced in a controlled and safe manner.
Stimulation is paired with a tone and the verbal command "come," creating an association between the three elements.
For example, during the initial training session, Rosie is given a chance to come out of her crate while being leashed. I ensure safety by keeping her attached and calmly guiding her back when she reaches the end of the leash.
2. Teaching Calmness
Calmness is prioritized from the very beginning. Rosie is encouraged to exit the crate without excitement, helping her focus on the handler rather than external stimuli.
I try to avoid vocal excitement, as heightened energy can lead to heightened anxiety or impulsive behavior. Instead, calm commands and physical guidance are employed.
3. Repetition and Consistency
Multiple repetitions are conducted to reinforce learning. In Rosie's case, over 15 recall exercises were performed within a single session.
These exercises begin in quiet, controlled environments, such as a driveway, and gradually progress to areas with mild distractions, such as an alleyway or near barking dogs.
Train your dog to come when called. Building the Follower Mindset
What is the Follower Mindset?
The follower mindset encourages a dog to rely on its handler for guidance rather than making independent decisions, which can lead to anxiety or unsafe behaviors. One of the highest priority skill to train is your dog to come when called. Dogs with this mindset are more likely to stay close to their handlers and respond to commands reliably.
How is it Achieved?
Structured Training: Rosie learns to associate the tone with safety and comfort through repetition and positive reinforcement.
Handler’s Leadership: Clear and consistent cues help Rosie understand that the handler is in control of the environment.
Positive Reinforcement: Success is rewarded with affection or treats, reinforcing the desired behavior and strengthening the bond between Rosie and her handler.
For instance, Rosie is guided to associate the e-collar tone with returning to my side. Over time, she begins to understand that coming back to the handler results in positive outcomes, such as affection and calm praise.
Key Techniques and Observations
Using the E-Collar Effectively
I combine the e-collar with leash guidance to create a layered training experience. This dual approach ensures that Rosie receives clear feedback and learns the desired behavior quickly.
The tone acts as a precursor to the stimulation, guiding Rosie back to the handler before any physical pressure is applied.
Addressing Distractions
The training session introduces mild distractions, such as other dogs, noises, or unfamiliar objects. Rosie is encouraged to focus on me despite these challenges.
For example, when Rosie hesitates due to a barking dog or the presence of trash, I calmly guides her back using the leash and tone, reinforcing her focus.
Gradual Progression
Training begins with simple, low-pressure exercises and progresses to more challenging scenarios. Rosie’s training started in a driveway and later moved to an alley with moderate distractions.
This gradual approach ensures that Rosie is not overwhelmed, allowing her to build confidence and develop trust in her handler.
Real-Life Applications of the Follower Mindset
Dogs trained with tone recall and the follower mindset are better equipped to navigate real-world environments safely and confidently. They learn to trust their handlers and rely on them for guidance, reducing anxiety and impulsive behaviors.
For instance, Rosie’s training prepares her to handle situations such as:
Staying calm around unfamiliar dogs or people.
Ignoring environmental distractions, like barking or moving vehicles.
Returning to her handler reliably in open or unpredictable spaces.
Conclusion
Tone recall, combined with e-collar stimulation, is a transformative training technique that establishes a strong foundation of trust and obedience. Rosie’s journey illustrates the effectiveness of this method in developing the follower mindset. By prioritizing calmness, consistency, and positive reinforcement, trainers and dog owners can foster a safer, more harmonious relationship with their pets. This approach not only improves behavior but also builds a deeper bond between dog and handler, ensuring a lifetime of mutual respect and understanding.
Happy training!
Avery Gibbs,
Ace Dog Academy
Dog training in Roanoke, Virginia