Has your dog been ignoring you? Were they once well-behaved but now refuse to respond to anything you say, even the most basic commands?
If you’re wondering how to get your dog to listen, it’s fairly simple. Don’t take it personally if they’re not listening, though. Chances are there is a form of miscommunication happening, from you not being consistent with your commands to them having too much energy, which makes it difficult to focus.
Here’s how to get your dog to listen to your commands:
Remain consistent with your commands
First and foremost, a common reason a dog won’t listen is because they aren’t receiving consistent commands. For instance, when they attempt to reach for something they shouldn’t grab, you end up yelling out, “Ah,” “Stop,” “No,” and “Drop it!” While you understand all of these commands as being synonyms, your dog doesn’t.
You need to remain consistent with your commands. Pick which one feels most natural to you and run with it. Any time your dog reaches for something they shouldn’t or gets it in their mouth, use that one command. And be sure you use it every single time. That way your dog knows what you’re asking them to do and will react accordingly.
Ease your dog’s anxiety
Your dog may not listen to you because they’re anxious and stressed. Think of yourself: When you’re stressed out, you’re more compelled to zone out. There’s already enough noise going on in your head, so why would you give all of your attention to someone who may stress you out even more?
