The One Training Mistake Every Dog Owner Makes (and How to Fix It)

We’ve all been there. You ask your dog to sit. Nothing happens. So you repeat:
“Sit… sit… SIT!”
Still nothing.

Sound familiar?

This is hands down the most common training mistake I see across the board — repeating commands without getting a result. And while it might feel harmless (or even necessary in the moment), it actually teaches your dog that listening is optional. Let’s dig into why this happens — and more importantly, how to fix it.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• Why might your dog not be listening.

• How to escape the “repeated command syndrome”.

• An invitation to the June Social Walk! 👀👀😉😉

Before we label our dogs as “stubborn,” let’s reframe the situation. When your dog doesn’t respond to a command, it’s not personal. It’s information. There’s a reason for the non-response, and if we can identify it, we can fix it.

Here are the most common reasons your dog might not obey the first time:

👉 They Don’t Understand the Command Yet

We sometimes assume that because a dog did something once, they now know it. But knowing a command can take hundreds of repetitions, often broken down into small steps, with clear feedback.

💡 Ask yourself:

• Have I taught this clearly enough?

• Has my dog had success with this command without help (no lures, no leash pressure, no prompting)?

👉 They’ve Only Learned It in One Context

This is what we call lack of generalisation.

Dogs don’t automatically understand that “sit” in the kitchen also means “sit” at the park, or during a walk, or when the courier arrives.

🛠️ The fix: Practice in lots of different environments.
Keep it short, simple, and high-reward until your dog builds fluency.

👉 We’re Not Consistent

If sometimes we say “sit” and give a reward when they hover halfway… and other times we insist on a proper bum-on-ground sit… we’re sending mixed signals.

🎯 Dogs thrive on clear criteria. Decide what counts as “correct” and reward only that.

👉 We’re Bribing, Not Training

If your dog only listens when they see a treat in your hand, they’re not really listening — they’re bargain hunting.

💸 Don’t fall into the “show and tell” trap.
Instead, teach first, reward second.

Use a treat after your dog completes the behaviour, not as a lure every time.

👉 We Expect Too Much, Too Soon

Just because your dog sat five times yesterday doesn’t mean it’s locked in today — especially when distractions are higher.

🚧 Training isn’t linear. Some days are slower.
That’s normal. Keep your expectations fair and your sessions short and sweet.

So, What Should I Do Instead of Repeating Myself?

Here’s what to try next time your dog doesn’t respond:

• Say the command once, then pause.

• If they don’t respond, help them (use leash guidance, hand signals, or a reset).

• Mark and reward the correct action.

• Practice more reps at an easier level to build confidence.

Think of it like this: Every repeated command without a follow-up is a missed opportunity to teach.

The Takeaway

Your dog’s response (or lack of it) is feedback.
Repeating commands muddies the waters. Instead, be clear, consistent, and supportive.

✔️ Say it once
✔️ Help if needed
✔️ Reward the right response
✔️ Stay patient — and keep the learning going

Time for some safe dog/dog socialisation! 🐕🐕

You’re invited to the next social walk around Hamilton Lake on Sunday, 15 June, at 9 am. Dogs will be around other dogs, all on-lead and in a controlled manner. We meet on the grass opposite the Hamilton Yacht Club.

Cancellation due to weather will be notified on my Facebook Page.

Rules of the Walk

• Dogs must stay on the lead at all times

• No dog-to-dog greetings without the owner’s consent, please. Not all the dogs will welcome random dogs in their space.

• Pick up all poop (goes without saying, but there, now it’s said).

• Respect pedestrians and other dog walkers on the path. Make way for people as appropriate, so we’re not road-hogs.

• Remember to act as good ambassadors of the dog-owning community at all times (not everyone likes dogs - weird huh?)

If you're feeling stuck, you're not alone. Most of us benefit from a fresh set of eyes and a solid plan.

Book a free discovery call with me here: Free Call

Let’s make your training less frustrating and more effective — for both of you.

Tony the Dog Trainer
Helping people and their dogs live better lives together.