3 Fun Recall Games to Teach Your Frenchie to Come Every Time

Why Recall Is the Frenchie Superpower You Want

French Bulldogs are adorable little comedians with huge personalities - and sometimes equally huge selective hearing. In recall dog training, your mission is to transform “I’ll come when I feel like it” into “I’m sprinting to you like you’re made of bacon.”

A reliable recall isn’t just a nice party trick - it’s about keeping your Frenchie safe and giving you the freedom to let them explore while knowing they’ll come back, even if there’s a squirrel, a snack, or a suspiciously crunchy leaf calling their name.

🏃‍♀️ Game 1: The Frenchie Chase Me! (with Squeaky-Tug Twist)

Frenchies love a bit of drama - so let’s make coming to you the most exciting event of their day.

How to play:

• Grab some seriously high-value treats (think roasted chicken, cheese, or anything that makes their eyes bug out), or a squeaky toy/tug toy they love.

• Get down low, clap your hands or squeak the toy, then run away in a playful zig-zag.

• When your Frenchie “catches” you, instantly reward with either a jackpot of treats or a short, exciting game of tug.

• Keep it short and end while they’re still excited.

  
  

Why it works: Movement triggers their chase instinct, the food or toy keeps motivation sky-high, and your enthusiasm makes you the best thing in the environment. Perfect for teaching reliable recall in distracting environments.

🔄 Game 2: Middle Magic

"Middle" is when your Frenchie runs to you and stands or sits between your legs, facing the same way you are. It’s adorable, safe, and ridiculously useful.

How to play:

• Stand with your legs slightly apart.

• Lure your dog between them with a treat or toy.

• Mark (“Yes!” or click) and reward when they’re in position.

• Add the cue “Middle” and start calling them into the position from short distances - then further away.

Why it works: It gives your Frenchie a clear, easy-to-understand target and puts them in a safe spot near you in busy places. It’s also a great alternative recall cue to “come” for teaching a dog to come when called without overusing one word.

👥 Game 3: Round Robin Recall

This one is a social, fast-paced way to get in loads of recall practice without your Frenchie even realising they’re “training.”

How to play:

• Gather two or more people (family, friends, or friendly neighbours).

• Stand several metres apart in a safe space.

• Take turns calling your Frenchie enthusiastically, rewarding with treats or play when they arrive.

• Gradually increase the distance and add mild distractions.

Why it works: The multiple repetitions teach your Frenchie to respond to different people, voices, and positions. It also builds speed and keeps recall fun - because from their point of view, running away from you doesn’t mean the game ends…it means the game begins.

💡 Bonus Tips for Frenchie Recall Success

• Keep it short and sweet. End sessions while your Frenchie is still eager.

• Always reward recall. Coming to you should always pay off.

• Use a recall word you don’t overuse. “Here!” or “Come!” is fine, but “Pineapple!” works too if it keeps them guessing.

  
  

🏆From Selective Hearing to Superstar Recall

With these three games, recall dog training becomes less of a drill and more like playtime with purpose. Over time, you’ll see your Frenchie bounding towards you with that signature wiggle, no matter what’s happening around them. Because when you’re the centre of their fun, food, and love - you’re impossible to ignore.