How to Get Your Dog to Listen

You and your dog have a unique relationship. Your dog is part of your family, but they don’t speak English. They pick up on your behaviour, and you notice their behaviour too, but it seems you just aren’t on the same page sometimes. Does your dog act like they are in charge and not take you seriously? You are not alone. And this kind of owner-dog relationship is more common than you think. Many people ask themselves, how do we both communicate and behave in order to have a respectful, positive, and understanding relationship?

These days, people really spoil their dogs and give them so much in the version of toys, treats, clothes, snuggles and pets, etc. But they might not realize what their dog really needs or what they really want! It’s the same for your dog, they might not realize the house rules or what you really want! These things are the critical aspects of your relationship with your dog.

Dogs are man’s best friend descended from wolves. We have bred them for certain characteristics, sure, but we cannot delete their instincts from their genes. Dogs need certain things, structure, leadership, boundaries, and consistency. They also want adventures, things to chew, places to dig, jobs to do, and more!

Your relationship with your dog will determine if they are excited to see you, if they are affectionate towards you, and MOST importantly, DO THEY LISTEN to you. So, what do you do?

#1: Get to know your dog! They watch you and respond to you everyday, they learned your daily habits and can predict your behaviour. Now, its your turn. What is their favourite thing to do? Do they like play fetch, do they like new sticks, do they like to swim, do they like to run or learn new tricks. Is their favourite motivator food, scratches, freedom? Get to know what makes your dog feel relaxed, excited, or nervous. Knowing these things about your dog is very important for behaviour modification and relationship building.

Experienced trainers will usually begin by asking these questions about the dog. Owners who learn these aspects of their dog’s personality will have more success with training programs because the dog and the owner develop a better understanding of each other, and that leads to respect. When you learn who your dog is, and their unique characteristics, you will feel even more love for your dog! It’s the first part of the journey and the end result will be a beautiful relationship. Your dog will appreciate how to you respond and how you lead and protect them in scenarios and that will lead to a dog who listens.

#2: Communicate to your dog more clearly and consistently. Hold them accountable! This means, everyone in your home needs to come up with rules and boundaries for your dog. For example: the dog cannot go on furniture, the dog cannot run through doorways, the dog must sit calmly to receive their food. Keep the rules simple and easy for you to follow through on. Your dog needs rules and boundaries and must follow through and be held to your expectations. It is the same in wolf packs who have leaders, jobs, rules, and expectations. They need this and they will love and respect you for it. Remember, start simple then grow and add more rules and structure when you are ready. More rules now means freedom later when they listen to you off leash too!

Learn who your dog is and what they love, and do that with your dog! Also, be clear and consistent with your communication and expectations with your dog. Your relationship will grow each day. Keep it simple to start and you will see the changes in time. Just like all relationships can grow, the love between you and your dog can too! And that’s the best, isn’t it! When you love your dog and your dog loves you. Your dog was MEANT to be part of your FAMILY! If you have questions, or would like to chat about how to best build a relationship with you dog, feel free to contact me! Aly MSc, Animal Behaviour Specialist, 10+ Years in Animal Welfare and Training