Can anyone help, when is it a good idea to let your dog off the lead in public, I have a 7 mth old staffy who probably, when let off the lead could run up to other people or dogs (not let him off yet).  I feel he might not come back if I shout him, he is not agressive would just like to play, do you think taking treats out with me would help?

Sacha
if pup is food orientated then yes treats will be a good idea
try practicing in the garden and rewarding when pup returns :)
We practiced in an enclosed part of the park , in a less frequented area and O/H and I used to call Gus from one to the other and reward upon each return.
Although your pup is friendly, unforunately he may meet others who are not and that is why recall is so important.

Thank you for your reply.
He comes to me at home and in the garden when I shout him, but definetly think he willl run off to other dogs when let off the lead.  Hes not always into treats either as when I take him to puppy classes hes sometimes not bothered about them!  There is know where except my garden thats enclosed.

Try taking a favourite toy if treats dont work - one thats kept for best which pup enjoys
Always praise him lots upon his return and tell him he's a good boy even if he doesnt come back straight away. Never scold him upon his return if he doesnt return at once or else he will associate being put back on the lead with a telling off.
It might take time  but its an important part of training :)
Good luck

PS: gardens are fine to practice in - dont worry about that but when you first let him off try and make sure its in a smaller enclosed area. He is bound to be excited and you dont want him running off without being to control/catch him

Then I would suggest a long line in order that he does not get reinforced for running off and he does not run the risk of a nasty experience should you be unable to recall him and he meets a less than friendly dog and/or owner!

You also need to make sure you're not training him to ignore you by repeatedly calling him - there should be one command, anything more than that means HE is making the decision on when to come back - not you!

wel let leo off on his second walk at 14 weeks, we did practice with an extendable lead calling him back and giving him food. We also played a game where OH ran off with leo on his lead and then they stopped and he told the dog to run back to me, so no whenever he runs off now he comes back to me. He does go and see other dogs but hes a bit scared of them still so he does run back and doesnt chase off too much.