My Dog Doesn’t Listen to my Commands

Mar 8, 2017 | Ruff Tips

Maybe It’s You?

When trying to demand a dog follow your commands, have you considered the dog doesn’t know what you’re asking? Many times we think the dog knows what we are asking, because we are asking them very “dog-like” things such as “Sit!” “Stay!” “Come!”. You may be telling yourself, “my dog should automatically know these things right?!” Absolutely not! We have to be realistic in our expectations of our dog and If we haven’t taught them what these words mean, we can’t expect them to perform them.

Did You Teach The Command?

If someone were to yell at you in a language you did not understand, wouldn’t it frustrate you that they were getting frustrated because you didn’t perform what they were asking? Imagine the dog. The dog wants to perform for you. They get great pleasure from performing for you. Set the dog up for success. Set yourself up for success. Spend the time to adequately teach your dog your expectations and what certain words mean. If you do not, you are setting everyone up for failure.



rufftoready ebbok

Unlock Real Behavior Change – Download Your Free Guide Now

"*" indicates required fields



For more tips on training your dog, visit our Videos page, or head over to our Youtube channel!

Unlock Real Behavior Change – Download Your Free Guide Now

"*" indicates required fields

90 Minute Miracle

Has your dog made your guests uncomfortable? Have they been barked at and jumped on when they came in the door?

We Can Help!

6 Week Obedience Training

So you’ve finally got your pup and are in love with him! One thing you didn’t plan on, is the dog using the bathroom in the house, chewing shoes, nipping with those sharp puppy teeth, and barking. Now what? 

You May Also Like

Why Is My Dog Staring at Me? 8 Reasons Behind That Intense Gaze

Why Is My Dog Staring at Me? 8 Reasons Behind That Intense Gaze

Your canine companion locks eyes with you across the room, maintaining that unwavering stare that seems to pierce right through your soul. Sound familiar? If you've ever wondered why your dog watches your every move with such intensity, you're not alone. This behavior...

Crate Training a Dog: The Complete Guide for Success

Crate Training a Dog: The Complete Guide for Success

Crate training a dog can feel overwhelming for new dog owners, but it's one of the most valuable skills you can teach your furry friend. When done correctly, crate training creates a safe space where your dog feels calm and secure, while also helping with house...

Dog Potty Training: A Complete Guide for New Pet Parents

Dog Potty Training: A Complete Guide for New Pet Parents

Bringing home a new puppy fills your heart with joy—until you discover that adorable fluffball has turned your living room into their personal bathroom. If you're feeling overwhelmed by accidents, chewed-up shoes, and the lingering smell of pet messes, you're not...

Dog Training Methods: Pros, Cons, and Effective Strategies

Dog Training Methods: Pros, Cons, and Effective Strategies

Every dog owner faces the same challenge: how to transform their energetic, sometimes chaotic furry friend into a well-behaved companion. With countless dog training methods available, choosing the right approach can feel overwhelming. Some trainers swear by positive...

Why Does My Dog Lick Me So Much? 8 Reasons Behind This Behavior

Why Does My Dog Lick Me So Much? 8 Reasons Behind This Behavior

You're sitting on the couch after a long day when your furry companion bounds over and begins their daily ritual: licking your face, hands, and any exposed skin they can reach. While these doggy "kisses" can be endearing, you might wonder why your dog seems so...

Professional Dog Training Techniques

Professional Dog Training Techniques

Training your dog doesn’t have to feel like an uphill battle. Modern dog training techniques move beyond outdated concepts like alpha theory and the idea of the pack leader, focusing instead on science-based, humane methods. With the right approach and techniques, you...

How to Get Rid of Dog Pee Smell: Complete Odor Removal Guide

How to Get Rid of Dog Pee Smell: Complete Odor Removal Guide

Do you know how to get rid of dog pee smell in your home? Every pet owner knows the frustration of discovering that unmistakable smell of dog urine in their home. Whether you're dealing with a new puppy going through potty training or an older dog who's had an...