I almost lost Koko this morning.

[cassiesmom]

I'm so glad she's okay. Koko-please don't ever do that again!!! It is scaring the daylights out of me. I can imagine how Dad felt. Yikes!!

Me, too! Koko, I'm so happy that your dad is willing to practice with you! I can only imagine how scared he must have been! My heart is pounding for you. Now that the time-out is over, Kokopup, please give Koko a huge hug from me.

[bckrazy]

You... scolded her as harshly as you could? For obeying your order? That just doesn't make sense.

Personally, I don't allow my dogs to wander near any roads. Even country roads. Dogs are animals and just like humans, they aren't perfect and are never 100% reliable. Take Koko out on a long line so that you can practice her recall safely. Set her up for success, by adding the command to the behavior only when you're positive she's coming, and reward her with super-duper yummy food EVERY time she comes. Say "come" in a pleasant, exciting voice! Her recall will be rock solid with daily practice, in different environments. No more punishments - you want a dog who spins around and bounds back to you at top speed when you say "come", not a dog who tucks their tail and slinks over because they know they're getting punished.