If your dog looks away or walks away, then they are not engaged in the training and you should end it.  There are a few reasons that this may happen.

  1. The treats used are not that exciting for your dog – try using treats of higher value – the wetter and smellier the better. Think hot dog pieces or cheese.
  2. Your training sessions are too long – remember to keep them short and positive – 2-5 minutes max.
  3. The dog doesn’t understand what you are asking them to do?  It’s your job as the trainer to communicate with your dog so remember to break up your training exercises into very small pieces and start with something small and build on it. For example, you wouldn’t ask them to go across the room and lie on their bed if they haven’t been taught.  However you could reward them for just looking at their bed or taking one step toward their bed as a start.
  4. Start training in a low-distraction environment.  It’s best to start teaching a new behavior in a familiar, quiet room with no distractions where you can be sure the dog is paying attention to only you.  There will be time later to take it outside, or with other people or pets present, but best to start in a quiet, familiar place.