I hear it and see it all the time: my dog doesn’t seem to retain training, or they’re stubborn, or they’re just lost. It’s not that your dog doesn’t get it; it’s that you are babying them along the way. So why should they need to put in the work? Allowing your dog to make choices is the only true way to experience change that lasts and training that sticks.

When training a fearful dog with aggression or reactivity, it’s crucial to avoid exerting control, as this can heighten the dog's stress and worsen their emotional state. Instead, I recommend providing a managed freedom that allows the dog to explore independently, fostering confidence and trust.