Many highly skilled dog trainers are receiving poor reviews and negative feedback from clients after their dogs return home from intensive board and train programs or service dog training. At first glance, it may seem like the issue lies with the trainers themselves or the quality of their training methods. However, after careful analysis and observation, I've come to the conclusion that in most cases, the problem actually stems from the owners and handlers themselves.

In this article, I will explore ten key reasons why even the best trained dogs often quickly revert back to undesirable behaviors once they are back in their home environment, leading to frustration for both the owners and the trainers who worked so hard to help them. By understanding these common pitfalls, my hope is that dog owners can be better prepared to maintain their dog's training and create a harmonious household for all.

1. The Handler Doesn't Change Their Behavior

One of the most critical factors in a dog's successful training is the behavior and interactions of their handler. In many cases, the very behaviors and inconsistencies in the handler's own actions and energy that contributed to the dog's unwanted behaviors in the first place are not addressed or modified, setting the stage for a quick relapse once the dog returns from training.

It's crucial to recognize that the interaction between the dog and the handler, specifically the dog's behavior in response to the human's behavior, was not working prior to sending the dog to training. If the handler fails to change their own behavior and energy upon the dog's return, the dog will quickly revert back to their old, unwanted habits.

Dogs are highly attuned to their environment and the people in it. They learn through constant feedback and reinforcement from their handlers, whether that feedback is intentional or not. If a handler is inconsistent with their own behaviors, fails to reward good behavior, or inadvertently reinforces undesirable actions, the dog will become confused and revert back to their previous habits.

For example, let's say a dog has a habit of jumping up on people when they come through the door. The handler sends the dog away for training, and the dog learns to sit calmly and wait to be greeted. However, when the dog returns home, the handler continues to excitedly greet the dog as soon as they walk in, encouraging the jumping behavior once again. In this case, it's not the training that has failed, but rather the handler's inability to change their own behavior and provide consistent reinforcement for the desired actions.

The scientific explanation for this lies in the principles of operant conditioning, which states that behaviors that are reinforced (i.e., rewarded) are more likely to be repeated, while behaviors that are not reinforced or are punished are less likely to occur again in the future. When a dog is consistently rewarded for a particular behavior, whether intentionally or unintentionally, that behavior becomes more ingrained and automatic over time.

In the case of the jumping dog, if the handler continues to provide reinforcement for the jumping behavior (e.g., by giving the dog attention, petting, or treats or even saying no and pushing the dog off of him), the dog will learn that jumping is an effective way to get what they want, attention from you. Remember, negative attention is also attention. Even if the dog has been trained to sit instead of jump, the handler's inconsistent reinforcement can quickly undo that training and revert the dog back to their old habits.

To avoid this pitfall, people must be willing to critically examine their own behavior and make changes where necessary to support their dog's training. This means consistently rewarding desired behaviors, ignoring or redirecting unwanted behaviors, and being mindful of the unintentional signals they may be sending to their dog through their actions, energy, and body language.

One of the first things I address with clients is the need for them to be active participants in their dog's training. This means not only learning the commands and cues used by the trainer but also understanding how their own behavior and energy can influence their dog's actions. It's not enough to simply send a dog away for training and expect them to come back "fixed" - the owner must be willing to put in the work to create a consistent and positive environment for their dog to thrive in. Without the owner's commitment to changing their own behavior, the dog will inevitably revert back to their old, unwanted behaviors, as the dynamic between the dog and human remains unchanged.

2. The Owners and Handlers Don't Invest in Education on How Dogs Learn

Another common issue I see with dog owners is a lack of education on the fundamental principles of how dogs learn and process information. In today's digital age, there is no shortage of opinions and advice on dog training available online and in bookstores. However, much of this information is based on outdated or disproven theories, anecdotal evidence, or simply misguided attempts at anthropomorphizing dogs.

As a result, many people approach their dog's training with unrealistic expectations or methods that are not grounded in science. They may rely on Alpha rolling based techniques, fail to understand the importance of timing and consistency in reinforcement, or attribute human emotions and motivations to their dog's behavior.

It is crucial to seek out science-based knowledge and education on how dogs learn. The field of canine cognition and learning is constantly advancing, and we now have a better understanding of the cognitive and emotional abilities of dogs. By staying informed about the latest scientific findings, we can make more informed decisions about the dog's training and well-being. Dogs learn through a complex interplay of evolutionary instincts, social learning, and the consequences of their actions. They are capable of learning by observing and imitating the behavior of other dogs and humans, and their behavior is heavily influenced by the feedback they receive from their environment.

To set their dog up for success, we must be willing to invest time and energy into educating themselves on these scientific principles of dog learning and behavior. This means seeking out reputable sources of information, such as certified professional dog trainers, animal behaviorists, and scientific journals. It also means being open to changing their own preconceived notions about how dogs think and learn, and adapting their training methods accordingly.

I always begin by providing clients with a foundational understanding of canine cognition and learning theory based on the latest scientific findings. This includes explaining concepts such as the importance of consistency and patience in training, the role of consequences in shaping behavior, and the cognitive and emotional capabilities of dogs. By providing people with this knowledge, they are better equipped to continue their dog's training at home and troubleshoot any issues that may arise.

It's important to note that our understanding of dog cognition and learning is constantly evolving. What we once thought about dogs, such as the idea of dominance-based training or the notion that dogs are purely instinctual creatures, has been challenged by new scientific evidence. As such, people must be willing to stay up-to-date with the latest research and adapt their training methods accordingly.

3. Bringing Your Trained Dog Home to a Multi-Dog Household

One of the most challenging scenarios for maintaining a dog's training is when they are brought back into a household with other untrained dogs. Dogs are highly social creatures, and they learn a great deal from observing and interacting with their canine companions. In fact, studies have shown that dogs are capable of learning complex behaviors simply by watching other dogs perform them, a phenomenon known as social learning or observational learning.

This can work against an owner who has invested time and money into training one dog, only to have that training quickly unravel when the dog is exposed to the bad habits of their untrained housemates.

The explanation for this lies in the concept of social facilitation, which refers to the tendency for individuals to perform better on a task when in the presence of others, whether those others are actively participating or simply observing. In the case of dogs, this means that a trained dog may be more likely to revert back to undesirable behaviors when in the presence of untrained dogs who are engaging in those same behaviors.

For example, let's say a dog has been trained to walk calmly on a leash and not pull or lunge at other dogs. However, when that dog is brought back into a household with untrained dogs who pull and bark on leash, the trained dog may quickly pick up on those behaviors through social facilitation and observational learning. Even if the owner continues to reinforce the trained dog's good behavior, the constant exposure to the bad habits of the other dogs can make it difficult for the trained dog to maintain their training.

To counteract this effect, it's crucial for owners to keep their trained dog separated from any untrained dogs in the household, at least until the untrained dogs have had a chance to learn and adopt the same good habits. This may mean setting up separate living areas, using crates or gates to control access, or simply being vigilant about supervising interactions between the dogs.

It's also important for people to continue reinforcing their trained dog's good behavior, even when in the presence of other dogs. This means consistently rewarding desired actions, redirecting any lapses in behavior, and providing plenty of mental and physical stimulation to keep the dog engaged and focused. I always stress the importance of treating each dog as an individual with their own unique needs and training requirements. By setting clear boundaries, providing consistent training, and being patient and persistent, they can help their trained dog maintain their hard-earned skills even in the face of social challenges.

4. Setting Your Emotional Needs Above Your Dog's

One of the most common mistakes I see dog owners make is prioritizing their own emotional needs above the needs of their dog. This is especially true for handlers of emotional support dogs or service dogs for people with conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

It's understandable that people who rely on their dogs for emotional support would want to keep them close at all times, showering them with affection and attention. However, it's important to remember that dogs are not humans, and they have their own unique needs that must be met in order for them to thrive. Dogs require regular exercise, mental stimulation, and opportunities to engage in natural behaviors like sniffing, chewing, and playing. They also need consistent boundaries and structure in order to feel secure and confident in their environment. When they prioritize their own emotional needs above these basic requirements, it can lead to a host of behavioral issues in their dogs.

The scientific explanation for this lies in the concept of anthropomorphism, which refers to the attribution of human characteristics, emotions, or intentions to non-human entities. When people treat their dogs like children or "fur babies," they are engaging in anthropomorphism and projecting human emotions and motivations onto their dog's behavior.

While it's natural for humans to form strong emotional bonds with their dogs, it's important to remember that dogs do not have the same cognitive or emotional capacities as humans. Dogs do not experience emotions like guilt, shame, or spite, and they do not have the ability to understand complex human concepts like revenge or manipulation.

When they anthropomorphize their dogs and prioritize their own emotional needs above their dog's basic needs, it can lead to a range of behavioral issues. For example, a dog who is constantly coddled and carried around may become anxious and insecure when left alone, leading to separation anxiety and destructive behavior. A dog who is allowed to sleep in the owner's bed and given free reign of the house may become territorial and aggressive, seeing themselves as the pack leader rather than respecting the owner's authority.

To avoid these issues, it's crucial for people to strike a balance between meeting their dog's needs and their own emotional desires. This means setting clear boundaries and rules, providing plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, and allowing the dog to have their own space and independence when needed.

It's also important for people to recognize that their dog's role as an emotional support or service animal does not negate their basic needs as a dog. Even the most highly trained service dog still requires regular breaks, opportunities to play and relax, and a consistent routine in order to perform their job effectively.

5. Failing to Set Up a Successful Environment

Another overlooked factor in a dog's successful training is the environment in which they live and learn. Just like humans, dogs are heavily influenced by their surroundings, and a chaotic or unpredictable environment can quickly undo even the most thorough training.

To set our dog up for success, we must take a proactive approach to creating a living space that supports and reinforces the dog's training. This means not only providing a safe and comfortable physical environment, but also establishing clear rules and boundaries that are consistently enforced. Dogs are highly sensitive to their environment and can quickly learn to associate certain cues or triggers with specific behaviors or emotions. For example, a dog who has been trained to stay off the furniture may quickly revert back to old habits if they are allowed to lounge on the couch when their owner is not around. Similarly, a dog who has learned to walk calmly on a leash may become overstimulated and reactive if they are constantly exposed to chaotic or high-energy environments like dog parks or busy city streets.

To create a successful environment for their dog, owners should start by assessing their living space and identifying any potential triggers or obstacles to training. This may mean rearranging furniture to create clear paths and boundaries, investing in training aids like crates or gates, or simply being more mindful of their own habits and behaviors. People should also be proactive about exposing their dog to a variety of environments and situations in a controlled and positive way. This means gradually introducing them to new people, animals, and experiences, while providing plenty of positive reinforcement and support along the way.

It's also important to be consistent in setting expectations and boundaries, even when faced with distractions or challenges. This means setting clear rules for behavior in different environments, such as not allowing jumping or barking in public spaces, and consistently enforcing those rules with positive reinforcement techniques.

In addition to the physical environment, we must also consider the dog's mental and emotional needs when creating a successful living space. This means providing plenty of opportunities for mental stimulation through training games, puzzle toys, and interactive play sessions. It also means creating a predictable and consistent routine that allows the dog to feel secure and confident in their environment.

6. Not Providing Enough Mental Stimulation

Another common mistake is not providing their dogs with enough mental stimulation. Just like humans, dogs need regular mental exercise to stay sharp, focused, and emotionally balanced. Without adequate mental stimulation, dogs can quickly become bored, anxious, or destructive, leading to a range of behavioral issues.

The scientific explanation for this lies in the concept of enrichment. Enrichment refers to the process of providing animals with stimulating and challenging environments that allow them to engage in natural behaviors and problem-solving activities. In the wild, dogs spend much of their time hunting, scavenging, and exploring their environment, which provides them with plenty of mental and physical stimulation. However, in a domestic setting, dogs often lack these opportunities for enrichment, leading to boredom and frustration.

To prevent these issues, we must be proactive about providing our dogs with regular opportunities for mental stimulation. This can take many forms, such as training sessions, puzzle toys, scent work, and interactive play.

Training sessions are an excellent way to provide mental stimulation for dogs, as they require the dog to focus, problem-solve, and learn new skills. Even basic obedience training, such as sit, stay, and come, can provide a good mental workout for dogs. More advanced training, such as agility, nose work, or search and rescue certification, can provide even more mental stimulation and challenge.

Puzzle toys are another great way to provide mental enrichment for dogs. These toys are designed to challenge the dog's problem-solving skills and keep them engaged for extended periods of time. Some examples of puzzle toys include treat-dispensing balls, snuffle mats, and interactive feeders.

Scent work is another fun and mentally stimulating activity for dogs. This involves teaching the dog to use their nose to locate specific scents, such as essential oils or human scents. Scent work can be done in a variety of settings, from the backyard to a formal competition.

Interactive play is also an important form of mental stimulation for dogs. This can include games like tug-of-war, fetch, and hide-and-seek, as well as more structured activities like agility or flyball. The key is to keep the play sessions fun, positive, and mentally engaging for the dog. It's important for owners to recognize that mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for their dog's overall health and well-being. A tired dog is a well-behaved dog, and mental exercise can be just as tiring as physical exercise.

7. Not Socializing Appropriately

Another common reason that even great dogs can start to display negative behavior is improper socialization. Socialization is a critical aspect of a dog's development and refers to the process of exposing them to a variety of people, animals, and environments in a positive and controlled way. The goal of proper socialization is for your dog to become neutral to everything in their environment, rather than being overly attracted to or shy and reactive towards people or other dogs.

Many handlers mistakenly believe that socialization means taking their dog to a dog park or allowing them to be petted by everyone they meet. However, dog parks are often "disease infested, no rules, dog fight clubs" and should be avoided. These environments can be highly stressful and overwhelming for dogs, exposing them to potential health risks and negative experiences. Overwhelming a dog with too much stimulus or forcing them into interactions they are not comfortable with can actually have the opposite effect of what is intended, leading to fear, anxiety, or aggression.

The scientific explanation for the importance of socialization lies in the concept of the critical imprinting period of development. The critical period refers to a specific window of time in a dog's life (usually between 3 and 16 weeks of age) when they are most receptive to new experiences and learning. During this time, exposure to a wide variety of people, animals, and environments can help shape the dog's behavior and personality for the rest of their life. This period is crucial for creating positive associations and building a foundation of confidence and resilience.

If a dog is not properly socialized during this critical period, they may develop fear, anxiety, or aggression towards unfamiliar people, animals, or situations later in life. These negative experiences can have a lasting impact on a dog's emotional well-being and behavior. On the other hand, a dog who is well-socialized during this time is more likely to be confident, adaptable, and able to cope with new challenges.

To ensure proper socialization, handlers should start exposing their dog to new experiences from a young age, but in a controlled, neutral, and positive way. This means gradually introducing the dog to new people, animals, and environments, while teaching them to remain calm and neutral. The focus should be on creating positive associations and building confidence, rather than forcing interactions or overwhelming the dog.

For example, handlers can start by inviting friends and family members over to "meet" the dog in a calm and controlled setting, such as the home. By not having your friends and family pet the dog or greet them with excitement and high-pitched voices, you can teach the dog neutrality towards people and avoid them getting into a high state of arousal every time they see someone new. Instead, encourage calm and polite greetings, rewarding the dog for remaining relaxed, engaged and focused on you.

It's important for handlers to pay close attention to their dog's body language and comfort level during socialization experiences, and to never force them into a situation that they are not ready for. If a dog shows signs of fear or discomfort, such as cowering, trembling, or growling, it's crucial to remove them from the situation and try again later at a lower intensity. Pushing a dog beyond their comfort zone can lead to negative associations and setbacks in their socialization progress.

In addition to exposing dogs to new experiences, socialization also involves teaching them appropriate social skills and behaviors. This includes learning to calmly observe people and other dogs from a distance, to greet politely when appropriate, and to respond to basic obedience commands in a variety of settings. By teaching dogs to remain calm and focused on their handler, even in the presence of distractions, we can help them navigate the world with confidence and ease.

I work closely with handlers to develop a socialization plan that is tailored to their dog's individual needs and personality. This may involve setting up controlled socialization experiences, such as structured walks or training classes with well-behaved dogs, as well as providing guidance on how to read and respond to their dog's body language and comfort level. By breaking down socialization into manageable steps and focusing on positive experiences, we can help dogs build the skills and confidence they need to thrive in any environment.

Ultimately, the key to successful socialization is creating a strong bond of trust and communication between dog and handler. By providing appropriate socialization experiences and training, handlers can help their dog develop into a confident, well-adjusted, and adaptable companion that is able to calmly and neutrally navigate a variety of settings and situations without becoming overstimulated or reactive. With patience, consistency, and a focus on positive reinforcement, any dog can learn to face the world with grace and ease.

8. Not Managing the Dog's Stress Levels

Another often overlooked factor in a dog's behavior is their stress level. Just like humans, dogs can experience stress and anxiety in response to a variety of environmental and social factors, such as changes in routine, loud noises, or unfamiliar people or animals.

When a dog is stressed, they may display a range of behaviors that can be misinterpreted as disobedience or aggression, such as barking, growling, or even biting. In some cases, chronic stress can lead to more serious behavioral issues, such as separation anxiety, destructive behavior, or fear-based aggression.

The scientific explanation for the impact of stress on dog behavior lies in the physiological changes that occur in the body during times of stress. When a dog perceives a threat or challenge, their body releases a cascade of stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, which prepare them for a "fight or flight" response.

In the short term, this stress response can be adaptive, allowing the dog to quickly respond to a potential threat or danger. However, if the stress response is triggered too frequently or for too long, it can lead to chronic stress and a range of negative health and behavioral outcomes.

To prevent stress-related behavioral issues, owners must be proactive about managing their dog's stress levels and creating a calm and predictable environment. This means identifying potential stressors in the dog's environment, such as loud noises, unfamiliar people or animals, or changes in routine, and taking steps to minimize or eliminate them where possible.

For example, if a dog is sensitive to loud noises, such as thunderstorms or fireworks, owners can create a safe and quiet space for them to retreat to during these events, such as a crate or a room with sound-dampening materials. They can also use calming aids, such as pheromone diffusers or calming chews, to help reduce the dog's anxiety.

If a dog is stressed by unfamiliar people or animals, owners can work on gradually exposing them to these stimuli in a controlled and positive way, using techniques such as counter-conditioning and desensitization. This involves pairing the stressful stimulus with a positive experience, such as treats or praise, in order to help the dog develop a more positive association with it over time.

It's also important for owners to be aware of their own stress levels and how they may be impacting their dog's behavior. Dogs are highly attuned to their owners' emotional states and can pick up on subtle changes in body language, tone of voice, and overall demeanor.

If an owner is feeling stressed or anxious, their dog may pick up on these cues and become stressed or anxious as well. This is why it's important for owners to practice good self-care and stress management techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or exercise, in order to create a calm and positive environment for their dog.

Read more about stress in this article: https://www.canineevolutions.com/news/5ooggqyt3a4rkt752lxihgnssbnhqb

9. Not Providing Consistency in Training

Consistency is key when it comes to dog training, and it's a common mistake for handlers to be inconsistent with their approach. Inconsistency can come in many forms, such as using different commands for the same behavior, rewarding the dog for a behavior one day and punishing them for it the next, or allowing certain behaviors in some contexts but not others.

When handlers are inconsistent with their training, it can be confusing and frustrating for the dog, leading to a breakdown in communication and trust. The dog may become unsure of what is expected of them, and may start to display undesirable behaviors as a result.

The scientific explanation for the importance of consistency in dog training lies in the principles of learning theory. Dogs learn through the consequences of their actions, and the more consistent and predictable those consequences are, the faster and more effectively they will learn.

For example, if a dog is consistently rewarded with treats and praise for keeping all four paws on the ground when greeting people, they will quickly learn that this is a desirable behavior that leads to positive outcomes. However, if the handler sometimes rewards the dog for not jumping and sometimes ignores or encourages the jumping behavior, the dog will become confused and less likely to perform the desired behavior in the future.

Another common example is a dog who jumps on the door or gate to be let out. If the handler sometimes opens the door when the dog jumps and sometimes ignores the behavior, the dog will learn that jumping is an effective way to get what they want, even if it only works some of the time. This intermittent reinforcement can actually make the behavior more resistant to extinction, meaning it will be harder to eliminate in the future.

Inconsistency can also contribute to the development of behavior problems, such as aggression or anxiety. If a dog is punished for growling or showing signs of discomfort in one context, but allowed to do so in another, they may become confused and more likely to display aggressive behavior in the future.

To ensure consistency in training, handlers should develop a clear and well-defined training plan that outlines the specific behaviors they want to teach their dog, as well as the methods and rewards they will use to do so. This plan should be communicated to all members of the household, as well as any other caregivers or trainers who may be working with the dog.

It's also important for handlers to be consistent in their own behavior and body language when interacting with their dog. This means using the same tone of voice, hand signals, and physical cues for each command or behavior, and avoiding sending mixed signals or conflicting messages.

For example, if a handler wants their dog to stop jumping on people, they should consistently ignore the behavior my for example standing completely still or turning away or removing attention every time the dog jumps up, and giving the dog attention when his four paws are on the ground, rather than sometimes allowing the behavior and sometimes punishing it. Similarly, if they want to teach their dog to sit calmly at the door instead of jumping, they should consistently reward the dog for sitting and ignore any jumping behavior, every single time.

Consistency also means being patient and persistent in training, even if progress is slow or setbacks occur. It's important for handlers to remember that training is a long-term process, and that it may take many repetitions and practice sessions before a behavior becomes fully ingrained.

10. Not Continuing Education and Training

Finally, one of the most important things that handlers can do to ensure their dog's continued success and well-being is to embrace dog ownership as a lifestyle rather than a single training session or boot camp. Living with a dog is an ongoing process of interspecies learning and education that requires continuous commitment, patience, and personal growth.

Many handlers make the mistake of thinking that once their dog has completed a basic obedience course or received a certain level of training, their work is done. However, the reality is that dogs are constantly learning and adapting to their environment, and their needs and behaviors may change over time as they age, encounter new situations, or develop new habits

Just like any human relationship, a good and balanced relationship with a dog requires a continuous investment of time, energy, and effort. It's not something that can be achieved through a single training session or boot camp, but rather a lifelong journey of learning, growth, and mutual understanding.

Embracing dog ownership as a lifelong journey means being open to continuously educating oneself about canine behavior, psychology, and training techniques. It means staying curious and humble, and being willing to adapt and adjust one's approach as needed to meet the individual needs of their dog. It also means being willing to invest in the relationship through quality time, shared experiences, and ongoing communication.

This investment can take many forms, from daily walks and playtime, to training sessions and enrichment activities, to simply being present and attentive to the dog's needs and emotions. It means creating a life together that is fulfilling and enriching for both the handler and the dog, and that prioritizes the strengthening of their bond.

Just as in any human relationship, there will be challenges and setbacks along the way. There may be times when the dog's behavior is frustrating or confusing, or when the handler feels overwhelmed or unsure of how to proceed. But by staying committed to the journey and to the relationship, handlers can work through these challenges and emerge stronger and more connected on the other side.

Embracing dog ownership as a lifelong journey also means being willing to make certain sacrifices and lifestyle changes to accommodate the needs of the dog. This may include adjusting one's work schedule, social life, or living arrangements to ensure that the dog receives adequate exercise, socialization, and attention. It may also mean being willing to invest time and resources into ongoing training, healthcare, and enrichment activities.

Ultimately, the rewards of this lifelong journey of learning and growth with a dog are immeasurable. By committing to the relationship and to personal development, handlers can not only help their dog reach their full potential, but also deepen their own understanding of themselves and the world around them. Through the lens of interspecies communication and collaboration, we can learn valuable lessons about empathy, patience, and unconditional love that extend far beyond the realm of dog training.

I encourage all of my clients to embrace this lifelong journey of learning and growth with their dog. By staying open, curious, and committed to the relationship, handlers can create a truly fulfilling and enriching partnership with their canine companion that lasts a lifetime. This is not just about having a well-trained dog, but about cultivating a deeper understanding and appreciation for the incredible beings that dogs are, and the many ways in which they can enrich our lives and teach us about ourselves.

In the end, the key to a successful and rewarding relationship with a dog is not just about training techniques or obedience skills, but about the quality of the bond between handler and dog. By viewing dog ownership as a lifelong journey of learning, growth, and mutual understanding, handlers can create a relationship that is built on trust, respect, and unconditional love - the very same qualities that make our human relationships so meaningful and fulfilling.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while professional dog training can be a valuable investment for owners looking to improve their dog's behavior and quality of life, it's important to recognize that the success of that training ultimately depends on the actions and commitment of the owner themselves.

By understanding the common pitfalls that can undermine even the most thorough training, such as failing to change their own behavior, neglecting to educate themselves on how dogs learn, bringing a trained dog into a chaotic multi-dog household, prioritizing their own emotional needs above their dog's, failing to set up a successful living environment, not providing enough mental stimulation, not socializing appropriately, not managing stress levels, being inconsistent with training, and not continuing education, owners can take proactive steps to ensure their dog's continued success and well-being.

As a cynologist, my role is not simply to train dogs, but to educate and empower owners to be active participants in their dog's learning and growth. By providing a solid foundation of knowledge, practical skills, and ongoing support, I aim to help owners build strong, healthy relationships with their dogs that will last a lifetime.

Ultimately, the key to successful dog training is not just in the methods or techniques used, but in the dedication and commitment of the owner to creating a positive, supportive, and enriching environment for their dog to thrive in. With the right knowledge, tools, and mindset, any owner can help their dog reach their full potential and enjoy a happy, fulfilling life together.