In most cases, it is lack of motivation. People like to demand dogs to obey, but they don’t give a dog a reason to do so. Try to look at it from the other side (a dog’s point of view); “why would I go to my handler (where he/she will probably put me on the leash, etc.) if I can have fun here.” You have to convince your dog that YOU are the center of the Universe, the ultimate source of fun. Make sure you establish the relationship, where WHENEVER your dog comes to you, you make it worth it (give him food, play with him, etc.) and don’t EVER yell at him when he comes to you, even though you may be mad at him! Don’t forget, that your dog is in a situation because you create the environment around him.

Hand-feeding! We highly recommend feeding your dog, not by bowl but by hand, especially when you are trying to bond with your new furry family member or reestablish your relationship with your dog. By hand feeding your dog, you are creating an environment where you are his source of life, fun, support, love, and of course food!

An easy way to hand feed your dog is to first fill up his bowl with kibble with a typical amount he eats every day. Put the bowl on the counter (where he cannot get to it), and throughout the day, take handfuls to feed him. Or keep the kibble in your pocket and feed him throughout the day, giving him little rewards for good behavior, or just because! They will not want to leave your side!