How to Train a Bloodhound to Come When Called
Training a Bloodhound to reliably come when called is a critical safety skill that requires patience and understanding of this breed's unique temperament. Bloodhounds are naturally stubborn and determined dogs with an intense drive to follow scents, which often overrides their desire to obey. With a trainability rating of only 2/5, this breed won't respond simply because you want them to—they need compelling motivation and consistent practice. However, their affectionate nature means they genuinely want to please when properly incentivized. This guide uses positive-reinforcement methods to build a reliable recall, working within the Bloodhound's natural instincts rather than against them. Success requires high-value rewards, patience through frustration, and realistic expectations about how their nose-driven focus will always compete for their attention.
Step-by-step
- 1
Start in a distraction-free environment
Begin training indoors or in a small, enclosed yard where scent distractions are minimal. This allows your Bloodhound to focus on you rather than following nose trails, which is essential given their scent obsession. Practice when your dog is calm and alert, not when they're already locked onto a smell.
- 2
Establish a unique recall cue and ultra-high-value reward
Choose a specific, consistent word or sound (e.g., 'Here!' or a whistle) that means only one thing: come get an amazing reward. Use exclusively high-value treats like chicken, cheese, or meat—regular kibble won't compete with scent drive. Keep rewards novel and unexpected to maintain excitement.
- 3
Build positive association with short, frequent sessions
Call your recall cue, immediately reward with enthusiasm and praise when your dog responds, even if they were already heading toward you. Keep sessions to 5-10 minutes since Bloodhounds have moderate energy and will lose interest quickly. Practice multiple short sessions daily rather than one long session.
- 4
Gradually introduce minor distractions
Once your Bloodhound responds reliably indoors, slowly add distractions like opening a door, hiding treats on the floor, or practicing in a larger space. Never jump to high-distraction environments (outdoor trails) until success is consistent in moderate settings. Patience here prevents backsliding.
- 5
Use a long line for outdoor safety during practice
When training in parks or open spaces, attach a 15-20 foot long line to your Bloodhound so they cannot disappear down a scent trail if they ignore your recall. This teaches the consequence without punishment and keeps your dog safe. Gradually reduce dependency on the line as reliability improves.
- 6
Practice near end-of-exercise, never as a constraint
Always call your Bloodhound to come *toward* fun—playtime, meals, or a favorite activity—not away from it. After your dog's 75 minutes of daily exercise, they're more likely to accept direction. Never use 'come' followed by something the dog dislikes, like nail trimming or leaving the park.
Pro tips
- Never practice recall when your Bloodhound is in an active scent-tracking mode—wait until they're not yet locked in. Once they're obsessively following a trail, your reward can't compete, and they'll learn they can ignore you.
- Bloodhounds drool heavily, so always have treats in a sealed bag or container to keep your hands and clothes clean during training. The deterrent of sticky hands is not worth letting training consistency slip.
- Rotate your high-value rewards frequently to prevent habituation. Chicken this week, cheese next week, hot dog the week after keeps your Bloodhound genuinely excited about recall rather than bored by predictability.
Frequently asked questions
My Bloodhound completely ignores me when they catch a scent. Is recall training even possible?+
Yes, but success requires accepting that scent drive will always be their priority. Focus on making your recall cue more valuable than average distractions through exceptional rewards and consistent practice. In high-distraction environments, always use a long line as a backup. Realistic recall for this breed means 80-90% reliability, not 100%.
How long does it typically take to train a reliable recall on a Bloodhound?+
Given their low trainability (2/5) and stubborn temperament, expect 6-12 weeks of consistent daily practice for solid results in familiar environments. Generalizing to new places with distractions takes longer. Progress will be gradual and sometimes frustrating—consistency matters more than intensity.
Can I use a clicker or whistle to make recall training faster?+
Yes, both tools can help. A clicker marks the exact moment your Bloodhound complies, making the reward connection clearer. A whistle is excellent because it's consistent, carries farther than your voice, and you can practice it indoors without seeming odd. Pair either tool with high-value rewards every time.
Should I ever correct my Bloodhound for not coming?+
No. Positive-reinforcement only is the most effective approach for stubborn breeds like Bloodhounds. Punishment creates fear and makes them avoid returning to you at all. If they don't respond, simply don't reward and try again later in a less distracting environment. Patience and motivation work far better than frustration.