Your dog knows the cue to sit, but seems to ignore it, especially when things get busy outside, there are visitors, and/or something exciting is going on. Does it sound familiar to you? Most families don’t want a long list of tricks, but simply their dog to be able to listen to them at all times. A dog that will "check in" with you, respond to a command the first time, and remain calm in an exciting world.
That's exactly what Bark Busters dog obedience training in Fort Collins is designed to create for you: a dog that will focus on you, complete the requested task, and respond to commands appropriately whether you're at home or in the neighborhood.
Obedience Is Really About Focus
Obedience classes for dogs are not just about discipline. It is about using a language your dog can understand and creating an environment where listening feels like second nature.
When a dog can concentrate on you, things get easier and better.
- Pulling on the leash will be less difficult to stop.
- Barking and jumping will decrease as your dog learns how to regulate itself.
- You will be able to call your dog back safely because the dog is now focused on you.
- Your household will be a much more peaceful place because your dog is not constantly looking for the next excitement.
This is why our dog training program begins by focusing on attention and then builds from there.
Why Dogs Won't Listen To You (Even If They Love You)
You have to understand that even if your dog loves you, they will often choose not to listen to you. This is usually not because of "stubbornness,” but rather it is typically one of the following reasons.
- Distractions are more rewarding than you are at the moment.
- Your dog isn't really certain whether this cue applies everywhere (front yard) or only where you are giving the cue (the kitchen).
- There is an inconsistency in the house as far as rules go, with different people having different rules.
- Your dog is too excited/over-stimulated/anxious to listen to you.
- You have unknowingly created a habit of waiting you out.
That's why so many people enroll their dogs in obedience training classes and continue to struggle at home. While you might get your dog to do what you ask for in a structured environment like a class, real life is messy and unpredictable.
In-Home Coaching
Families frequently look into dog obedience training classes because repetition is a great way to resolve issues. Basic commands are usually covered in class. However, the repetitive format of the classes may not be designed to accommodate your dog's triggers or your daily routine at home.
Bark Busters Home Dog Training Northern Colorado teaches you how to handle situations that happen in real life, such as:
- When the doorbell rings, and your dog goes crazy
- When you tell your dog to come, and they ignore you
- When you want your dog to stop, calm down, focus, etc., immediately
We will demonstrate exactly what you should do in these types of real-life situations, so your dog understands that listening is required anywhere, not just during practice sessions.
Dog Obedience Training at Bark Busters
Focus and listening are best developed in an environment that has true distractions from your front door, your living room, your sidewalk, your yard, and your daily activities.
We will develop the following 3 habits for you and your dog.
- Your dog will learn to pay attention to you and find this a rewarding and safe activity, even when exciting things appear in their view.
- We will train your dog to respond the first time. The commands "sit,” "come,” "leave it,” or "place" will no longer be optional, but understood by your dog.
- A dog who can remain calm will be able to listen. One of the biggest obstacles to obedience is over-arousal.
Whether you're starting from scratch or have attempted to use other dog trainers and still think your dog is "only hearing what he wants," this method will work.
Want a calmer, better-behaved dog?
Get started your local trainer today.
Working with Professional Dog Trainers
When choosing a dog trainer, there is one key area that will determine whether your training will be successful. Does the dog trainer teach you how to get focus first? Attention is essential for commands to work.
Our training staff in Fort Collins has years of experience as certified Bark Busters dog trainers who have specialized in assisting thousands of families in building strong, reliable listening through clear communication and consistent routines.
We make it easy for you. We don't provide you with a lot of "homework" or overly-complicated systems. Instead, we'll give you a plan that you can use on a daily basis, even if your days are busy.
Ready to Get an Obedient Dog?
If you're looking to lower the number of times you have to give your dog a command and to increase eye contact, follow through on what you've said, and to bring calmness to both your dog and you, then we are here for you in Fort Collins.
At Bark Busters, our dog obedience training is based on one thing above all others: focus and listening. From that point forward, everything else becomes much simpler.
To begin in-home dog training and to achieve a greater level of peace and quiet within your home, and to get your dog to be truly focused on you, contact us today!