Dogs, can provide wonderful company for their owners. Once you form a bond with your dog, you’ll find that it’s one of the best relationships you’ll ever have. However, instant obedience might not always be the case. Sometimes dogs can be disobedient which can make things stressful for you and your pet.
If your dog refuses to obey your commands, it might not necessarily mean that it has chosen to ignore you on purpose; it might just that it does not understand what you require of it.
But no worries! This article will provide you with insight on how to get your furry companion acquainted with all of your “cues” and “instructions” in no time.
Keep reading to learn what to do when your dog won’t listen.
Offer Rewards When Your Dog Does Obey You
To make your dog listen, you will have to make yourself more interesting and engage in activities it considers “fun”. You can effectively achieve this by rewarding your dogs with enough doses of “play” and fun treats as well as enough hugs and cuddles.
Once dogs knows that the direct result of listening to you will result in treats and attention; they’ll be more likely to listen.
Be Patient
Everything in life requires patience and time. Sometimes, your dog might not listen because it is incapable of fully performing the tasks you require of it; when this happens, don’t give up—rather try to engage it in a simpler task. With time, it will be able to understand more complicated commands.
Practice Commands
Communication difficulties are another reason why your dog might not listen to you. Dogs can gradually learn what words and gestures are supposed to mean, but it will not happen overnight.
When communication between dogs and humans fails, people often resort to the use of body language to help the dogs understand what is expected, so that they can respond appropriately.
You can try pairing hand gestures with each of your verbal cues and commands. This way your dog will understand what you want to express.
Also, you can ensure that the commands are given in a thick and clear voice for adequate results. In fact, something as simple as just changing your tone can help your dog understand what you’re trying to say.
Pay Attention to Your Dog’s Mood
Refusal on the part of your dog might be a form of emotional response. You should try to examine the situation when your dog won’t listen. Ask yourself questions like, could it be that my dog is uncomfortable, or scared, or even unhappy?
Once you figure this out and solve the underlying problem, you will notice some positive responses from your dog.
Enroll Your Dog in Training Classes
If you feel you’ve done everything you can and your dog still won’t listen, it might be time to enlist the help of a professional. Research local dog trainers and training classes to find someone who you can work with to improve your dog’s listening skills.
A professional will be able to teach you new techniques you can use to get and keep your dog engaged.
Don’t Feel Discouraged if Your Dog Won’t Listen
Your dog is not a bad doggie. Just because your don’t won’t listen now doesn’t mean they can’t be trained.
Take a look at some of our other posts for more tips on training your dog.
