10 dog training mistakes to avoid for better results

Dog training is a journey requiring adaptation, patience, and clear communication to improve your dog’s skills and behaviour over time. While many owners succeed with basic research and practice, some face more challenges. Often, persistent issues arise from simple, fixable mistakes without the owner realising.

This article builds on a previous discussion of five big training mistakes and explores five more common pitfalls to avoid for successful handling and training results in 2025.

1. Repeating commands excessively

Repeating commands repeatedly without response typically leads to confusion or disinterest. Instead, say the command once and wait expectantly. If your dog ignores, try a different teaching approach rather than turning the command into background noise. Immediate responses are ideal, with one or two repeats only to ensure clarity.

2. Training only in familiar environments

Your dog may obey perfectly at home but struggle in distractions like the local dog park. Training should begin in quiet, calm settings but progressively include varied environments. This helps your dog generalise commands and respond reliably despite distractions or noise.

3. Over-reliance on treats

Treats are excellent motivators but should be gradually phased out. Dogs that expect treats every time may stop obeying when rewards aren’t present. Use treats paired with praise and vary your rewards, incorporating attention and affection to build consistent motivation.

4. Uniform training without individual adaptation

Training should adapt to your dog's breed, intelligence, energy level, and personality. For example, an Afghan hound puppies will respond differently to training techniques than a Shetland sheepdog puppy. Tailor your methods accordingly for optimum learning.

5. Inconsistent session length and frequency

Balance is key. Sessions that are too long can lead to boredom or overwhelm, while very brief or infrequent sessions risk forgetting commands. Aim for 10-15 minute sessions focused on one skill daily, with informal reinforcement during walks and play.

6. Inconsistent commands and expectations

Using different words or varying expectations confuses your dog. Be consistent with command words, tone, and the behaviours you expect. Clear, steady communication strengthens understanding and cooperation.

7. Sessions too long or too short

Effective training requires just the right session length. Aim for 10-15 minute sessions to maintain your dog’s engagement and allow focused learning without frustration or fatigue.

8. Dependency on treats (overuse or luring)

Excessive reliance on treats can cause your dog to obey only when food is involved. Gradually reduce treat use and switch to praise and other rewards to maintain good behaviour reliably.

9. Yelling or physical corrections

Harsh voices or physical punishments harm trust and may provoke fear or anxiety. Positive, encouraging tones foster cooperation, build bonds and improve learning experiences for your dog.

10. Neglecting socialisation and real-world training

Limiting training to a single environment can cause fear or reactivity in new places or with strangers. Socialisation with people, dogs, and diverse settings builds confidence and ensures your dog’s manners are reliable everywhere.

Avoiding these errors through consistent, patient, positive reinforcement and varied socialisation will enhance your dog’s learning, happiness, and your relationship over time.