What to Do When Your Dog Ignores Commands? - 9 Effective Tips

Doggy commands - Getting Through the Selective Hearing

Having a dog that ignores commands can be frustrating and, in some cases, potentially dangerous. Whether your dog has just started ignoring you or if they've never really listened to you, there are several steps you can take to encourage better obedience. For more guidance, see Pet Training 101: Effective Techniques for a Well-Behaved Pet.

1. Training Refresher: Your dog may need to remember what specific commands mean if they weren't firmly established initially. Return to basics and re-teach the commands as if your dog were a puppy. Be patient and consistent.
   
   
2. Positive Reinforcement: Always reward your dog for listening to a command. This could be with treats, praise, or a favorite toy. This makes it more likely they will listen in the future. If you're refining your approach, these training techniques can help.
   
   
3. Avoid Punishment: Don't punish your dog for not listening; it can create fear and confusion. Positive reinforcement is far more effective.
   
   
4. Check Your Tone: Your voice and body language convey a lot to your dog. Use a cheerful, encouraging tone when giving commands, not one of anger or frustration. A WaggleCam Pro pet camera can help you observe how your dog responds when you're not in the room.
   
   
5. Consistent Commands: Everyone in the household should use the same commands for the same behavior. If one person says 'down' when they want the dog off the furniture, and another says 'off,' it can confuse the dog.
   
   
6. Gradual Training: Start training in a quiet, distraction-free environment. Gradually add distractions and practice in different settings as your dog listens better.
   
   
7. Regular Exercise: A dog not getting enough physical and mental exercise may have too much pent-up energy to focus on commands. Regular exercise can help them be more attentive. When heading outside, review 6 Common Dangers to Watch Out For When Walking Your Dog to stay prepared.
   
   
8. Health Check: If your previously obedient dog has suddenly stopped listening, it may be worth a trip to the vet. Pain and certain illnesses can lead to changes in behavior.
   
   
9. Professional Help: If you're still struggling, consider enlisting the help of a professional dog trainer. They can identify issues you might be missing and give you strategies to address them. If you need extra visibility at home, the WaggleCam Pro can help you keep an eye on your dog.

Remember, training a dog takes patience and consistency. Celebrate small successes, and don't expect overnight changes. With time and persistence, you can have a well-behaved dog that listens to your commands. If crate routines are part of your training plan, How Long Can I Leave My Dog in a Crate? may also be helpful. If your dog tends to get distracted outdoors, What to Look for When Buying a Dog Coat? is useful for staying comfortable on walks.