One of my dogs has bad recall, mostly when we are on familiar territory but take her to the woods and she is an angel. I do allow her total freedom unless a horse is nearby then I will put her on her lead until its passed by. I don't think she would chase but I wont take that chance and the horsey people are all so lovely that they will stop for a quick chat. I did panic at first as she goes charging off but then if she cant see me she keeps coming back to check in for which I praise her. I like her to have her freedom and I don't keep calling her, this is something I used to do all the time and she used to just ignore me, now I find if she has her freedom and I just call her when I need to we have a better walk and if she does not come back I go and fetch her, Nicola advised me of this and it does work she as she does lose focus sometimes. I don't really like her out of sight though as I do worry she is black and hard to see where as my blue roan has a white tail its like a little waving flag in the undergrowth.
I love to see them charging around having fun, the last time we went out we met a lovely black american cocker and they had so much fun running around together. From what I have read you are doing so well with the training you just have to not panic so much (which I know is easier said than done!!!)
My other dog has perfect recall and will not go far from my side, they are a complete contrast. You are doing well stop worrying
