Why won't my teenage puppy listen to commands without repeating?

It's normal for puppies to become more independent and less focused on you as they reach adolescence. The best way to handle this is by simply "going back to basics" and reminding Bear of what you want him to do. Make sure to reward generously when he does what you ask. I agree that getting some hands-on help from a trainer would also be a good idea, so I would get started with this as soon as you can. You can search for a qualified trainer or obedience class instructor in your area here: www.ccpdt.org

I would recommend increasing physical and mental stimulation for Bear. Aim for working up to an hour of walking and 3-6 ten minute sessions of training/mind work during the day. By mind work, I mean finding hidden treats in the house, working on eating a frozen kong, or working on another food toy. You can actually feed him all his meals in a food toy if he's highly food motivated. Secondly, I would encourage you to think very specifically about what a well mannered dog means to you and work on actively encouraging those behaviors and ignoring/redirecting bad behaviors. If a he's not listening, he either doesn't understand what you want, can't (due to fear or physical pain), or isn't sufficiently motivated (ie you want him to "come" and then give him a piece of lettuce as a reward - he's going to be less likely to do it in the future, unless he's a dog who is super motivated by praise from you. But many dogs need the food motivation for a long time as well). I hope that helps! I know it's a difficult time.

Unfortunately this is never going to change unless every single person in the household is "training" Bear in the same way. That is just the reality of the situation. In this way, dogs are like children; they will go to the people who let them get away with the most stuff.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Usually these behaviors can be corrected but this usually requires in person training by a qualified dog trainer. I recommend you consider hiring a qualified dog trainer to work with you in person. Good luck and have a good night!

Consistency is key. I would also use treats and/or a clicker to elk with training. You could also get a training to come in just a couple of times to help pin point what is keeping him from listening. It sounds like he is young and probably has a lot of energy therefore, doesn’t want to listen and sit still. You can also try a calmin chew like composure or composure pro. Keep working on training everyday. I would try to take 10-20 minutes everyday to work on commands without any distractions. Use small chewy training treats so he doesn’t get distracted by the process it takes to chew up a large crunchy treat. I hope this helps.

Hi there! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Yes, there are things that you can do. I recommend treats. It all comes down to positive reinforcement. Puppies love treats so you just need to make sure you associate these commands with positive things such as treats to distract him. It will require persistence and consistency so stay there, you are doing well. Puppies just require some time while they learn but he will get there. Good luck and have a good evening!

Hi there. If you have access to a good puppy kindergarten class in your area, I would definitely recommend signing up - the instructor can show you how to start working with your pup to help her understand what you want and develop a good relationship with her. This normally involves using treats or other rewards your pup enjoys, and teaching her that good things happen for her when she pays attention to you. I also highly recommend the book "Perfect Puppy in 7 Days," by Dr. Sophia Yin. It's a great resource for more detailed information on raising a puppy.