And yes, motivation is important. Dogs won’t work if they see no reason to. But what I see too often is this:
Owners trying to out-reward their dog’s bad decisions… instead of teaching better ones.
Motivation without clarity leads to confusion. And confusion leads to chaos
A dog that only listens at home is still untrained in the real world.
Your dog deserves to be part of your life outside the house, on walks, in stores, on trips. But that privilege comes with responsibility: you have to train for the environment you want to enjoy
I wish every dog owner was taught about the place command for their dog.
Not because it’s flashy or complicated, but because it’s practical. It’s one of the few cues that truly teaches dogs how to calm down and stay calm.
And for most households, that’s exactly what they need.
It’s one of the most important behaviors your dog will ever learn. It can give them more freedom, open up off-leash opportunities, and literally save their life.
So why is it the least reliable command in most households?
Here’s what I know after years of hands-on experience with all kinds of dogs, from pushy, powerful working breeds to under-socialized rescues and everything in between:
Tools aren’t the problem. Inconsistent humans are.
When most people bring home a dog, their first instinct is to love on them. Snuggles, toys, treats, affection, most dogs walk into their new home and immediately get the royal treatment.