When a dog stops executing a command, it can be called regression or simply a lack of obedience, though specific training concepts may apply depending on the situation. A dog’s behavior is often a response to its environment and emotional state, not an act of defiance.
Terminology
Regression: This term refers to a temporary loss of a previously learned skill. It is common during the adolescent phase (6–18 months) or after a significant change, such as moving to a new home or experiencing stress.
Extinction burst: This is a behavioral term for when a dog temporarily and intensely increases an unwanted behavior after the reward for it has been removed. For example, if a dog is used to getting attention for barking, they may bark more loudly or persistently when you start ignoring the behavior. This is often a sign that your training is working and you must remain consistent for the behavior to fade away.
Poisoned cue: A command or cue becomes “poisoned” when the dog develops a negative association with it. For instance, if you always call your dog to come and then immediately end their playtime, the “come” command will become associated with an unpleasant experience. As a result, the dog may avoid you or refuse the command.
Common reasons for non-compliance
Instead of outright disobedience, a dog’s failure to respond to a command is often caused by one of these factors:
Distractions: Your dog may understand a command in a quiet house but be unable to focus when a squirrel, another dog, or a new person is nearby. Training sessions should begin in a low-distraction environment and gradually introduce more complex scenarios.
Inconsistent reinforcement: If you or other family members are not consistently using the same command words, signals, or rewards, the dog will become confused about what is expected.
Fear or anxiety: A dog experiencing fear, anxiety, or high stress may be too overwhelmed to process and follow a command. Their brain is focused on the perceived threat, not on listening to you.
Lack of motivation: If the reward for performing a command is not exciting enough for the dog, they may choose to do something more rewarding instead, like sniffing an interesting scent on the ground.
Pain or health issues: A sudden reluctance to perform a command that was once well-known could signal an underlying medical issue, such as arthritis, vision loss, or hearing loss. It’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian if you notice a sudden change in behavior.