If you’ve ever described your dog as stubborn, you’re not alone. Many dog owners in Virginia Beach and beyond struggle with behaviors that seem like defiance or willful disobedience. But what if I told you that stubbornness isn’t really the problem? Instead, what we often label as stubbornness is actually a lack of motivation, confusion, or an unmet need.
At Freak on a Leash, we focus on science-based, reinforcement-driven training to help owners and their dogs communicate more effectively. In this blog, we’ll break down common misconceptions about stubbornness in dogs and explore how understanding motivation can make training smoother, more enjoyable, and more effective.
Common Misconceptions About ‘Stubborn’ Dogs
Many owners mistakenly believe their dog is being stubborn when they don’t comply with cues. Here are a few myths we frequently hear:
1. “My Dog Knows What to Do, He’s Just Being Stubborn”
Dogs do not think in terms of right and wrong like humans do. If a dog is not responding to a cue, it’s not because they are intentionally ignoring you—it’s likely because:
• They don’t fully understand the cue in the current situation.
• They aren’t motivated by the reinforcement being offered.
• They are distracted, scared, or overwhelmed.
2. “My Dog is Trying to Show Me Who’s Boss”
The idea that dogs are constantly seeking dominance over humans has been debunked by modern canine behavior science. Dogs are not trying to control their owners—they are simply responding to their environment and what they’ve learned will or won’t be reinforced.
If a dog resists a certain behavior, it’s usually because:
• It doesn’t feel safe.
• It isn’t clear what is expected.
• The behavior hasn’t been reinforced enough.
3. “This Breed is Just Stubborn”
Certain breeds, such as Huskies, Terriers, and Hounds, are often labeled as stubborn due to their independent nature. However, this independence isn’t defiance—it’s genetic. Many of these breeds were developed for tasks requiring decision-making without human input (e.g., tracking, guarding, hunting).
Instead of labeling a breed as stubborn, focus on motivating them appropriately for their natural instincts.
Understanding Motivation in Dog Training
Dogs do what works for them. They repeat behaviors that lead to rewards and avoid behaviors that don’t. If your dog isn’t listening, it’s a motivation issue—not a stubbornness issue.
1. Reinforcement: The Key to Learning
Reinforcement increases the likelihood that a behavior will be repeated. There are different types of reinforcement, including:
• Food Rewards – High-value treats like cheese, chicken, or liver can be powerful motivators.
• Play Rewards – Some dogs prefer a quick tug game or fetch session over food.
• Social Rewards – Praise, petting, and attention can reinforce behaviors if the dog finds them rewarding.
2. What Motivates One Dog Might Not Motivate Another
Each dog is an individual, and their motivation varies. For example:
• Some dogs will work for kibble, while others need real meat.
• Some dogs find petting reinforcing, while others find it annoying.
• Some dogs love training in a busy park, while others need a quiet environment to focus.
If your dog isn’t responding to training, try different reinforcers and make sure you’re rewarding behavior consistently.
3. Timing is Everything
Dogs learn best when reinforcement happens immediately after the desired behavior. A reward given even three seconds too late might reinforce something unintended. Use a marker word like “Yes!” or a clicker to pinpoint the exact moment your dog does the right thing.
Why Punishment Leads to ‘Stubborn’ Behavior
Many dog owners unknowingly create “stubborn” behavior by using punishment-based methods. Corrections like yelling, leash pops, or shock collars do not teach a dog what to do—they only teach them what not to do, often creating fear and avoidance.
Instead of punishment, focus on reinforcing what you want to see:
✅ Reward your dog when they offer polite behavior.
✅ Set up the environment so they can make good choices.
✅ Use management tools (like leashes and baby gates) to prevent unwanted behaviors before they start.
How to Improve Your Dog’s Training Success
If you feel like your dog is being stubborn, try these science-backed strategies to improve training success:
1. Make Sure Your Dog is Physically and Mentally Fulfilled
Many behavioral issues stem from boredom or excess energy. Dogs need both physical exercise and mental stimulation.
• Daily walks are great, but they aren’t enough—try interactive play like fetch, tug, or flirt pole sessions.
• Enrichment activities such as puzzle toys, snuffle mats, and scent work can help tire your dog out mentally.
• Training sessions should be short and fun, keeping your dog engaged and motivated.
2. Train in the Right Environment
If your dog listens at home but not outside, they aren’t being stubborn—they’re struggling with distractions.
• Start in a low-distraction area. Train new behaviors at home before moving to the backyard, then a quiet park, and then a busy street.
• Use higher-value rewards in distracting environments. If kibble works at home, use chicken or cheese when training outside.
3. Break Training Into Small Steps
If your dog struggles with a behavior, it may be too difficult for their current skill level. Break it down into smaller, achievable steps.
Example: Loose Leash Walking
• Reward your dog for checking in with you.
• Reward small steps of walking calmly.
• Gradually increase distance before rewarding.
• Slowly add distractions.
4. Be Patient and Consistent
Dogs don’t generalize behaviors as quickly as humans. Just because they learned sit in the kitchen doesn’t mean they understand it in the park.
• Practice behaviors in multiple environments.
• Be patient—learning takes time, especially in young or rescued dogs.
• Keep training positive and fun to encourage enthusiasm.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re struggling with your dog’s training despite trying different motivators and techniques, professional guidance can make a difference. A certified trainer or behavior consultant (like those at Freak on a Leash) can help pinpoint issues and create a customized training plan.
Common reasons to seek help:
✅ Your dog is showing fear, aggression, or extreme frustration.
✅ Your dog seems overwhelmed or anxious in training.
✅ You feel frustrated or stuck in your progress.
A trainer can assess your dog’s needs, adjust reinforcement strategies, and help you create a training plan that works.
Final Thoughts: Your Dog Isn’t Stubborn – They’re Just Communicating
The next time your dog doesn’t respond to a cue, ask yourself:
✔️ Are they confused or distracted?
✔️ Are they motivated by my reinforcement?
✔️ Am I making the training too difficult too soon?
By focusing on understanding motivation, setting your dog up for success, and reinforcing the behaviors you want to see, you’ll build a stronger, more cooperative relationship with your dog.
If you’re in Virginia Beach and need professional training support, contact Freak on a Leash today! We specialize in positive, science-backed training to help you and your dog communicate better.
Ready to transform your ‘stubborn’ dog into an eager learner? Sign up for a group class or schedule a free phone consult with us!