In NPCA recall phase, once the dog crosses the 15 yard line, may the handler command sit, down, or stand?

• A. Any of the above
• B. Sit only
• C. Down only
• D. Stand only

Answer: (B)

During the recall phase the dog returns to the handler and finishes in a clear, controlled pose that shows focused attention and self-control at distance. The point after the 15-yard mark is designed so the handler can cue a precise finish, and the standard finish is a sit. A seated finish is stable, easy to judge, and demonstrates that the dog can stop promptly and hold a calm position in front of the handler. Asking for a down or a stand would change the end position, add unnecessary difficulty, and blur the clear cue that the judge needs to see at the distance. So the finish is sit only.