Is Your Dog Stubborn or Confused?

Have you ever found yourself frustrated with your dog because they “just won’t listen”? Maybe you’ve repeated a command multiple times, offered treats, or even raised your voice, yet your dog seems… uncooperative. It’s easy to label them as stubborn, but more often than not, dogs aren’t being deliberately difficult—they’re confused.

Understanding the difference between stubbornness and confusion is one of the most important steps in successful dog training. Let’s break it down.

Stubborn vs. Confused: What’s the Difference?

Stubbornness is rare. When dogs appear stubborn, it often means they understand the expectation but are choosing not to comply. This might happen if:

• They are distracted by something more interesting (like a squirrel outside).
• They have learned that ignoring a command can get them what they want.
• They feel uncomfortable or anxious about a situation.

Confusion, on the other hand, is much more common. Dogs may seem “stubborn” when they are actually struggling to understand what we’re asking. Confusion can occur if:

• Cues are inconsistent (“sit” sometimes means one thing, other times another).
• The environment is too distracting.
• The dog hasn’t mastered the skill yet, or the steps were too big.
• Health, age, or discomfort is affecting their ability to respond.

If your dog is confused, no amount of repetition or frustration will help—they need clarity, guidance, and patience.

How to Tell the Difference

Here are some signs that your dog might be confused rather than stubborn:

• They tilt their head or look at you like they’re trying to figure out what you want.
• They respond inconsistently, even though they have performed the behavior before.
• They seem hesitant or nervous when asked to do something.

Conversely, signs of true stubbornness might include:

• Ignoring the cue entirely while maintaining a relaxed, confident demeanor.
• Engaging in another behavior you know they enjoy instead of obeying.

Most of the time, what looks like stubbornness is actually confusion.

How to Help a Confused Dog

1. Simplify Your Cues – Use one word per cue and be consistent. Avoid multiple cues for the same behavior.
2. Set Up for Success – Reduce distractions, especially when teaching something new.
3. Break It Down – Teach behaviors in small steps. Celebrate incremental progress rather than expecting perfection.
4. Use Positive Reinforcement – Reward the behaviors you want immediately. Confused dogs need clear, positive feedback.
5. Check Health and Comfort – Pain, discomfort, or age-related changes can make your dog seem “stubborn” when they’re really just struggling physically.

Remember: Patience Wins

Dogs are eager learners, but only if we give them the tools to succeed. Frustration or punishment doesn’t teach understanding—it teaches fear, avoidance, or learned helplessness.

The next time your dog seems “stubborn,” pause and ask yourself: Could they be confused? By adjusting your approach, you’ll see more cooperation, less frustration, and a happier, more confident dog.

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