8 reasons your dog doesn't listen

It can be frustrating when your dog doesn't listen to you. Sometimes. it's a command you know the dog knows because he does it perfectly at home, in the backyard, or at dog classes. Here are 8 reasons why it can occur.

Is it a dominance issue?
Not according to the world's top leading canine ethologists (scientists who study dog behavior). These experts agree that dogs are never out to dominate their owners. What's more, trying to dominate our dog can actually scare and confuse them, leading to disobedience.

Why your dog doesn't obey?
When dogs don't listen to us, it's likely due to flaws in your training methods more than anything else. Unmet physical needs can hinder your dog's ability to follow commands effectively. Let's explore the true reasons behind your dog's lack of responsiveness.

• Tired
• Hungry or Thirsty
• Need to Eliminate
• Full of Energy - A need to burn!
• Health Issues
• Anxiety or Nervousness

He does not have your full attention
Your dog may not listen because you're not giving them your undivided attention. If you're distracted by your phone or preoccupied with other thoughts during training, your dog will pick up on it. It's important to be fully present and focused when giving commands or training your dog. Lack of attention from you can be a reason why your dog doesn't listen.

You don't use reward markers
Your dog may not be listening because you are not using reward markers effectively. A reward marker, such as a "Clicker of Verbal Cue," are essential in communicating to your dog what behavior will earn them a reward. By using reward markers consistently at the beginning of a desired behavior, you can make it clear to your dog what you expect from them. Dogs are more likely to perform behaviors that are associated with rewards, making training more effective and enjoyable for them.

Your dog is not motivated
From your dog's perspective, to increase your dog's motivation, here are some tips for successful reinforcing good behavior:

• Keep training sessions short and frequent - around 2 to 5 minutes, 5 to 10 times a day.
• Vary food rewards by making them - tiny and fragrant to keep your dog interested.
• Use verbal cues in a reassuring and friendly tone to encourage compliance.
• Be generous with food rewards when your dog behaves successfully to reinforce good behavior.
• Avoid using aggressive or intimidating verbal cues that may discourage your dog from listening.

Your asking too much, too soon
Your dog may not listen if you introduce distractions to quickly, overwhelming their ability to focus. Here are some ways we ask too much of our dogs:

• Lack of clarity in communication can lead to confusion about expected behaviors.
• If your dog has been consistently rewarded for a behavior you want to change, it may take time and patience to unlearn that habit.

You didn't let him get used to a new behavior before you cued the behavior. Let your dog adapt to a new behavior before cueing the behavior you want.

Your telling him NOT to do something
Dogs are naturally proactive creatures, always eager to engage in activities and behaviors. They may not understand the concept of stopping or refraining from certain actions, as they are driven by their instincts and past reinforcement. Merely saying "No" or "Stop" might momentarily interrupt their behavior, but it doesn't necessarily communicate the desired message to them. Instead of focusing on what not to do, it is more effective to prevent unwanted behaviors from occurring during training sessions. This allows the dog to learn and adopt more desirable behaviors. By redirecting their attention and guiding them toward positive actions, you can enhance their learning process and improve their listening skills!

Remember, it's not about scolding or punishing your furry friend, but about guiding them towards the right behaviors. With positive and proactive training approach, you can establish a strong bond with your dog and enjoy a harmonious relationship based on mutual understanding and respect. Happy Training!

Article written & provided by
Anna,
AMTC Breeder