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Hello hello, Pet Parents! Carlos here. Let’s talk about a common frustration many of you have shared with me: Why does my pup seem to follow a cue perfectly one day but totally ignore it the next?
You’re not alone, and—good news!—this doesn’t mean your dog isn’t smart or that you’re doing something wrong. It’s all part of the learning process. Let’s unpack the reasons behind inconsistent behavior and explore how to help your pup (and yourself!) move forward with confidence.
1. Why is my dog inconsistent?
Dogs Are Affected by Their Environment
Think about how hard it is to focus in a noisy coffee shop versus a quiet library. Dogs are just as sensitive to distractions. A car horn, a neighbor’s dog barking, or even a new smell can pull their attention away from you.
Emotions Play a Big Role
Dogs, like humans, have good days and bad days. Stress, fear, or excitement can make it harder for them to process and respond to your cues. According to research from the Journal of Veterinary Behavior, stress significantly impacts a dog’s ability to learn and respond to commands. (Source: ScienceDirect)
Training Inconsistencies Confuse Them
If pet parents use different cues or tones—or forget to reward desired behavior—dogs may struggle to understand what’s expected of them. For example, “Sit,” “Sit down,” and “Please sit” might sound similar to you, but to a dog, they’re entirely different.
Physical Factors Are Key
Is your pup tired, hungry, or not feeling well? These factors might be at play, making even simple tasks feel overwhelming for them.
2. How to Help Your Dog Stay Consistent
1. Keep Training Predictable
Use the same cues, gestures, and rewards every time. Consistency helps your dog build clear associations.
2. Control the Training Environment
Start in quiet, low-distraction settings. Gradually increase difficulty by introducing new environments or challenges, but only when your dog is ready.
3. Practice Patience
Learning isn’t linear. If your dog struggles with a cue today, it doesn’t mean they’ve “forgotten” it. It’s just a sign to adjust your approach or take a break.
4. Celebrate Small Wins
Every step toward consistency—no matter how small—is progress. Reward your pup for trying, even if the outcome isn’t perfect.
3. Dealing with Your Frustration
It’s natural to feel exasperated when your pup isn’t listening, especially after they’ve done it before. Here’s the mindset shift that can help:
Instead of asking, “Why Is My Dog So Inconsistent?" or "Why won’t my dog listen?” ask, “What might be affecting my pup today?”
This change in perspective helps you approach the situation with empathy and strengthens your bond with your dog. Remember, training is about teamwork, not perfection.
4. When to Seek Professional Help
If inconsistent behavior persists despite your best efforts, it might be time to consult a professional. A force-free trainer can help identify and address any underlying challenges your pup might be facing.
Final Thoughts
Remember, pet parents, dogs aren’t robots—they’re living, feeling beings who need understanding and patience. By focusing on clear communication, consistent training, and empathy, you’re not just teaching them skills; you’re building a lifelong relationship of trust and love.
Have questions or need extra guidance? Drop a comment or reach out—I’m here to help!
Carlos F. Morales - CDBC | CPDT-KA
Carlos is head trainer at Canine High School in Long Beach CA, a force-free Puppy School and Dog School. He is responsible for creating the School's Dog Training System, Curriculum and Philosophy. In addition to educating his canine students and their human parents, he runs a teaching school that offers apprenticeship and internship programs for aspiring professional dog trainers. He is a Certified Mentor Trainer for several dog training schools and holds certifications with the IAABC and the CCPDT. He lives in Long Beach CA in a little house by the beach with his human, his three dogs GoGo, Kiba, Choji and a sassy cat, Habibti.
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