Why Does Dog Follow Commands in Class but Ignore Home Training?

Ever had the experience where your dog responds to all your commands in training class, but as soon as you head back home, your dog forgets all about those commands? You are certainly not the only one. However, there is no need to be worried since this does not happen because your dog is trying to be difficult on purpose. There are several other factors at work here.

Dog Training at Home vs. Training Class: What’s the Difference?

The classes are intended to facilitate learning. The dogs will learn that there is always something expected from them, that there will be fewer distractions, and that they will receive many rewards during training classes.

Training classes offer your dog several important benefits:

• A well-structured environment with minimal distractions
• Professional assistance and command
• Highly valued treats and reinforcements
• Practice of the same behaviors again and again

Because everything feels predictable, your dog stays focused and eager to learn.

Why Does Dog Training at Home Feel More Difficult?

The home environment provides lots of fun and interesting distractions that distract your dog’s focus. Your family, toys, scents, visitors, and outside sounds may distract your dog’s concentration.

Reasons could be:

• Different commands from different family members
• Reduced reward for good behaviors
• Lack of practice every day
• Interesting distractions in your home
• Your assumption that your dog already knows the command

Dogs do not realize on their own that the same command works anywhere else.

Your Dog Isn’t Being Stubborn They’re Still Learning

Learning for dogs occurs according to context. What is learned within the confines of the training facility does not necessarily generalize to your living room or backyard. Generalization takes time.

To increase obedience in the home environment:

• Practice commands in various rooms.
• Gradually add distractions.
• Training should be kept brief – about 5-10 minutes.
• Praise good performance right away.
• Stay patient and avoid punishment.

Small Changes That Make a Big Difference

Consistency is one of the most important elements of dog training. When the whole family uses the same commands and reinforces the same actions, then your dog will learn very quickly.

You can follow these simple tips:

• Use the same command each time.
• Be consistent when rewarding.
• Train at regular times during the day.
• End training with a positive action.
• Do not repeat commands more than once.

When Should You Seek Professional Help?

If your pet stops obeying commands after obeying them all the time, or even displays any sign of fear, aggression, or anxiety, you may want to take him or her to an expert dog trainer or veterinarian.

Conclusion

Just because your dog is completely obedient during training class but becomes very difficult at home does not necessarily indicate that your dog does not listen to you. Every dog reacts according to its environment, surroundings, distractions, and even its routine. If you have some patience and are consistent, then soon enough your dog will react in the same way at home as they react in class.

Need professional assistance to train your dog for better conduct in the domestic environment? Our team at Petsfolio Dog Training is committed to offering unique training programs that will assist your dog in acquiring obedience, confidence, and good manners. No matter whether you have simple command training or any other challenge, we will utilize positive reinforcement training techniques in order to create a better relationship between you and your four-legged friend.