Are They Stubborn—or Just Misunderstood?
Dog owners in Boise often say, “My dog is just stubborn.” But as trainers at Positive Pets Dog Training, we like to pause and ask: Is that really what’s happening? What if your dog isn’t ignoring you, but is overwhelmed, confused, unmotivated—or has learned that trying doesn’t matter? “Stubborn” can be a misleading label that prevents progress. Let’s take a closer look at what might actually be going on beneath the surface.
It’s Not Defiance, It’s Communication
When a dog doesn’t comply, it’s not necessarily rebellion. Sometimes it’s fear, anxiety, or even past experiences shaping behavior. A dog that was previously punished for trying might choose to disengage instead of “disobey.” That’s not stubbornness—it’s self-protection. The behavior may look the same, but the underlying emotions couldn’t be more different.
Understanding the difference is crucial. When we label dogs unfairly, we risk missing the root cause. Our goal as dog trainers in Boise is to listen to what the behavior is telling us—not just correct it. Once we understand the “why,” the “how” becomes much more achievable.
Motivation Matters
All animals work for something—comfort, food, toys, attention. If your dog isn’t responding, it might be because the reward you’re offering doesn’t outweigh the distraction in front of them. That’s not stubborn—it’s basic motivation science. Our team helps owners discover what truly motivates their individual dog. With the right incentive, most so-called “stubborn” dogs turn out to be eager learners. Motivation isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some dogs are food-driven, others are toy-driven, and some need a deeper emotional connection to stay engaged. Learning what drives your dog can flip the switch from resistance to reliability.
The Learned Helplessness Factor
Some dogs shut down because they’ve learned their actions don’t change outcomes. This is called learned helplessness. You say “sit,” they don’t move. Not because they’re ignoring you—but because they’ve been conditioned to believe their behavior won’t earn success. At Positive Pets Dog Training, we teach dogs to try again and to trust that trying leads to something good. Rebuilding confidence takes time, consistency, and patience. We guide dogs through small, achievable tasks that reignite their willingness to engage. As they begin to feel safe and successful, the old “stubborn” label starts to fall away.
