But wait!
Dogs aren’t robots!
They’re allowed to have moments of distraction, curiosity, and even uncertainty.
Instead of forcing compliance, think about how you can inspire cooperation.
Pause and let your dog observe or process what’s happening around them.
Instead of instantly “correcting” your dog in moments like this, try letting them have some autonomy when they’re curious about something.
Let them take it in at their pace, and then reward them when they choose to reengage with you on their own.
Giving your dog space to voluntarily choose to refocus on you builds genuine trust and long-term cooperation.
And here’s the best part:
Dogs who learn they can safely “opt out” become dogs who actively CHOOSE to opt in 🤯
Has your dog ever spontaneously stopped listening during a training session?
What did you do next?