Sometimes we inadvertently build mistakes into our training program. One of the most common ways we do this is by allowing the dog to associate a chain of events with a certain activity.
for example, when you take the dog for a walk, you put on your coat, get the leash down off the hook, grab your keys, and off you go. The dog associates these events as a sequence leading up to a walk. Before long, when you take the leash down, he knows he's going out. Soon, all it takes is for you to put on your coat and he's ready to go.
Patterns in your training routines are interpreted by the dog in the same way. Leaving the dog on a sit, walking out fifteen paces in front of him, turning around and immediately calling him, is a chain of events that he will associate with the recall.
Using the same pattern over a period of time will lead to the dog anticipating the recall and attempting to come to you as soon as you turn to face him.
We now find ourselves in the unfortunate position of having to correct him for breaking the sit before the recall command was given but he has actually been conditioned into the mistake by our constant use of the pattern.
Patterns are extremely useful in training, especially in the introduction of new exercises, but watch for the first signs of anticipation and then begin varying the routine so that the dog cannot anticipate when the next command will come.
Good luck with your training!
Neil