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It isn’t a big deal to have him loose – if he doesn’t run off and if the environment is safe. But if you feel this is not the case it is better to avoid off-leash in an open area. At this stage in the training you should be sure to use a lot of positive motivation when he does come and allow him to go back to what he was doing if it is safe. Be sure to not got angry at him for not coming – because technically you probably have not taught him that there is anything wrong with not coming. Light lines can be useful in open areas, but there are serious safety risks if they get wrapped around an ankle – adult or child when the dog runs. A reliable “come” when called if you can make it through all three phases of training would make a great difference. It takes patience but is worth it.
