This Black Lab's Recall Is Perfect-Until Treats Are Involved, Obviously

It's every pet parent's dream to have a dog with a perfect recall. I know for my nephew, a Boston terrier, no amount of yelling or training can convince him to pay attention, despite the ironically large ears. Because he doesn't have great recall, we always make sure he's on his leash and harness, with a tight grip. After all, we know him very well.

Unfortunately, even these pet parents' best recall training wasn't enough to subdue their black Labrador retriever, Poppy. Highly motivated by food, Poppy's recall training went out the window the minute she spotted her favorite neighbor and their treats. After all, there's no way to get between a dog and their treats.

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"Definitely Food Motivated"

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/yTfuD5Rp_2Q

Despite being trained to stay close to her humans on walks and having great recall, Poppy didn't hesitate to ditch her parents in search of treats. While on their stroll, Poppy spotted treats left by their favorite neighbor in their front yard.

While it's always recommended to have your dog on a leash in public (it's the law in certain areas), it's clear that Poppy knows the area well enough to find the treats. Even her human had to admit in the caption that the black Lab is "definitely food motivated."

"Now that's a neighbor you don't want moving away!" commented one viewer.

Another viewer also added, "The dichotomy of food-motivated dogs." A sentiment most pet parents know too well, it's a double-edged sword, knowing that food can get your dogs to do anything.

"If she ends up on their porch, gotta just adopt each other," suggested another viewer. At this point, Poppy's parents should probably expect an escape to the neighbor's house any day now.

Related: Black Lab's Adorable Reaction to Dad Coming Home Is Too Cute to Handle

Should Dogs Always Be on a Leash?

Although state laws may vary, it's typically always expected that dogs be on a leash in public spaces. Sites like dog parks and beaches with designated areas might be exempt, though it's recommended to research before any visit. In addition to being on a leash, certain states prohibit pet parents from letting their furry friends loose on unfenced private property.

Despite our dog's best training, keeping them on a leash is for their safety and the safety of others. In an emergency, having them on a leash means you can swiftly pick them up and out of harm's way.

Related: Black Lab Is Accused of Various Crimes, and We Find Him Not Guilty

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This story was originally published May 20, 2026 at 5:20 AM.