Why Your Dog Isn’t Listening: The Secret to Finding the Best Training Rewards (And Saving Money!) by Anna Hope
Ever stood in a muddy Rugby field, frantically waving a premium, organic liver biscuit at your cockapoo while they completely ignore you in favour of a very interesting blade of grass?
We have all been there. It is embarrassing, it is frustrating, and frankly, it makes you feel like training just isn’t working.
As a dog coach, I often see owners making training so much harder than it needs to be simply because they are offering rewards their dog doesn't actually care about.
We buy all the things. We buy the puzzle toys, the expensive chews, the highly-rated dental sticks. But if your dog’s version of "absolute jackpot" is chasing a tattered old sock rather than a freeze-dried treat, you are fighting a losing battle. We get frustrated, the dog gets bored, and nobody wins.
The best thing you can do right now to streamline your training (and stop wasting money on stuff they don't want)? Do a ruthless audit of the toy box and the pantry.
Stop guessing what they should want and have a look at what they naturally gravitate towards when you are not actively engaged with them. Is it that giant colourful caterpillar toy (like the magnificent one in the photo!)? Is it the corner of the rug? Is it a piece of dried pasta you dropped three days ago?
Bringing that information to your reward selection is your absolute ticket to an easy, manageable, sociable life with your dog. You do not necessarily need to buy more stuff; you just need to streamline what you already have to find their ultimate jackpot. When you match the reward to the desire, training stops being a chore and starts being a success.
Looking for some personalised help finding your dog's specific jackpot?
If you are struggling to move past the frustration and want a clear, streamlined 1-to-1 training plan that works, please drop me an email and let's have a chat.
We will get those walks back on track together. 🐾