Dog Listening is not working for me, help!

If you have done everything you know to do and your dog's behaviour is still not improving, or even getting worse. Maybe it feels like they are becoming more reactive, more vocal, or growling.  You can be very sure that whatever you are doing is not enough for your dog. All our dogs are different and some need clearer communication than others. 

You can be sure that you have the dog you have for a reason!  They will be here to teach you something. The sooner you start to really listen and get some support the quicker you will see your dog relax and stop being reactive. 

I have found over the years that when it comes to Dog Listening, there a few recurring themes that people struggle with that can really prevent them achieving the results they are hoping for. It's one of the reasons that Dog Listening Camp was created.

(If you are unsure what I mean by Dog Listening or what the details of the 4 really are, check out my Free Introduction to Dog Listening workbook here ) 

Here are a few of the more common themes that might be happening for you that you have not noticed you are doing: 

• Eye Contact this is really important for your dog, if you are making eye contact with your dog and they are growling/grumbling at you. This is a sign the pressure is just too much for them in that moment. Step away and look away. Give them space and time to relax.
• Constantly going over to your dog and invading their space can be too much for some dogs. Always ask them to come to you.
• Giving food rewards when you have not asked something of your dog, will give them very mixed signals and raise their position in your family. A dog who believes they are top dog will be unhappy, confused and likely to be more vocal and display very reactive behaviours. If you want to give your dog a treat always ask something of them first, even if it's just come here. Bonus points for recall training right there!

I honestly could go on all day with all the areas that we can take a look at.  However, I can reassure you, since I qualified as a Dog Listener way back in 2006 I have yet to find a dog that Dog Listening does not work for.  It's really important to go back to the basic 4.  I have done this many times myself and I know all my Dog Listening colleagues have done the same. There is no shame or judgement in this. We are all human, often leading busy lives.  It's perfectly normal to feel like "it's not working" to feel embarrassed and be constantly apologising for your dogs behaviour, but once we settle down go back to the basics and get really really honest with ourselves. Very quickly our dogs will respond by relaxing and responding  beautifully. 

That's the most fantastic thing with Dog Listening you can't get it wrong for long as your dog will keep you right. 

If you would like my support to quickly get to the root of the problem for your dog and an action plan tailored to your individual needs then come and join me in Dog Listening Camp. Click here for the details. of e-mail me at [email protected] and we can set up a free call to chat. 

Peaceful paws always, 

Julie x