You tell your dog to âsitâ and he runs in circles. You say âcomeâ and she sprints… the other way. Sound familiar? Youâre not alone. When it comes to dog obedience fails, most new pet parents are winging it (and sometimes the dog is, too). This post breaks down the common dog training mistakes we allmakeâand how to fix them before your pup eats another slipper. Bonus: two top-rated dog training resources to help you level up (without yelling âNo!â like a broken record).
The Real Reasons Your Dog's Not Listening (Yet)
â Mistake #1: Being Inconsistent
Dogs thrive on routine. One day âdownâ means lie down, the next it means get off the couch. Confused dog = untrained dog.
Fix it:
- Pick simple, consistent commands (âSit,â âDown,â âStayâ).
- Make sure everyone in the house uses the same words and rules.
- Practice in short, regular sessionsâdogs love patterns.
â Mistake #2: Using Negative Reinforcement
Yelling, yanking leashes, or scolding doesnât teach what to doâit just makes your dog nervous.
Fix it:
Use positive reinforcementâreward good behavior with treats, toys, or affection. And when mistakes happen, redirect instead of reprimand.
đ Try this insteadâŠ
Brain Training for Dogs âMake Your Dog Smarter, Not Just Obedientâ
Founded by pro trainer Adrienne Farricelli, this online course is a game-changer. With a science-backed, reward-based method, it focuses on boosting your dogâs intelligence while improving obedience.
Whatâs inside:
- Step-by-step video training
- Problem-solving games to engage your dogâs brain
- Access to a private members forum for real-time advice
Best for:
- New puppy parents
- Dogs with behavior issues
- Anyone who wants a smarter, better-behaved pet
đ Why it works: Dogs want to learnâthey just need the right tools. This course makes learning fun for both of you.
Still smiling? Thereâs more where that came from!
Subscribe to the Awwdroble newsletter and get your weekly fix of funny pets, cutest furballs, free goodies & more!
â Mistake #3: Skipping Socialization
If your dog barks at every stroller, scooter, or squirrelâit might be a lack of exposure, not aggression.
Fix it:
- Start small: walks in the neighborhood, meeting new dogs calmly
- Reward calm behavior around distractions
- Donât force interactionsâlet your dog explore at their pace
â Mistake #4: Repeating Commands Too Often
âSIT. Sit. SITTTT!â Eventually, your dog tunes you out like a boring TV ad.
Fix it:
Say the command once, then wait. If they donât respond, guide them gently or redirect. Repeating just teaches them to ignore the first two times.
â Mistake #5: Not Using the Right Tools
You wouldnât fix a leaky pipe with a forkâso donât train your dog without the right tools.
đ Like this one…
Zak Georgeâs Dog Training Revolution
âTraining that actually works (and feels good)â
Zak George is basically the dog dad of YouTubeâand his book is a top pick for modern, compassionate training that actually gets results.
Why itâs great:
- Science-based, humane techniques
- Covers basics and advanced behavior
- Encourages real bondingânot just obedience
Best for:
- First-time dog owners
- Rescue dogs or reactive pups
- Anyone who prefers gentle, smart guidance
â Amazon Rating: 4.4â (9,123 reviews)
â Mistake #6: Training When You're Frustrated
Youâre tired. The dogâs distracted. And suddenly training time feels like a standoff.
Fix it:
If youâre cranky, skip the session. Training should be fun. Dogs pick up on your energyâso keep it light, happy, and brief.
â Mistake #7: Not Practicing in Real-Life Situations
Your dog sits like a champ in the living room, but outside? Forget it.
Fix it:
Practice everywhere. The more distractions, the better the learning. Think: parks, vet offices, elevators, friendâs houses.
Final Thoughts: Progress > Perfection
Dog training isnât about being perfectâitâs about learning together. Every âoopsâ is a chance to build trust. So donât stress the fails. Fix them, laugh about them, and keep showing up.
âš Want a smarter, better-behaved pup? Start with Brain Training for Dogs.
đ Prefer a real book and some Zak wisdom? Grab Zak Georgeâs Dog Training Revolution.
And heyâif your dog still steals socks, at least theyâre clean. (Hopefully.)
Canât Get Enough Cuteness? đ
Join 4,000+ pet lovers (and counting) getting their 3Ă weekly dose of smiles, awws, and pet parenting hacks.
No spam, just paws & awws. Unsubscribe anytime.
