Not Listening or Not Understanding?
Many clients list their dog not listening as one of the things they want to change. Most commonly, the dog isn’t coming when called but sometimes it’s a general lack of response. The dog may run away instead of staying still while his leash is attached or his winter coat is put on. She may bark at the front window and not respond to requests to be quiet.
There are several reasons a dog appears to “not listen.” Notice the word “appears.” Dogs hear us but may not truly understand our request or may not have mastered the skill that we ask for.
The request may predict something that dog doesn’t want:
Many people only call their dog to come in the yard when they want to put the dog inside and leave. If every request to come predicts being put away and left alone, why would the dog come when called? The key is to randomly call your dog to come to you—for a treat, for a pet, to play with a beloved toy, etc. and then release him. Work on this inside and outside to build a strong connection between your dog and his name.
The request may be for a skill the dog hasn’t been taught or one that hasn’t been used in a long time:
As the old saying goes, “Use it or lose it.” Your dog’s skills can absolutely erode when not used. And skills should be taught to be used in everyday life. If you don’t use a skill every day, think about whether or not you need it. Sit, for example, should be used in order to get a treat, for leash/collar/harness to be put on and taken off and while waiting to cross a busy street.
The request may be made in different ways at different times:
Requests for a skill should have one cue, such as the word “sit,” which is always used and only said once. “Sit” is different from “Sit Down,” which is different from “Sit Down Now!” If you have to ask multiple times, the dog probably doesn’t know the skill or understand the what you’re asking.
The request may be out of the context in which it was taught:
Years ago, I had a lovely client in a group class. Her miniature poodle would happily sit on his mat in class and at home, but he wouldn’t sit outside at all. He knew the skill, but only inside and only on his mat. When they backed up a bit and worked on sit in novel locations, he quickly caught on and was able to sit whenever and wherever asked.
Not sure if your dog knows or understands the skills you need? A Certified Professional Dog Trainer can help. Find one near you at https://www.ccpdt.org/.