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How to train my dog to obey commands around distractions?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Alsatian | Male | unneutered | 2 years and 4 months old

My dog is 2 years old, I've been training him on and off, he knows basic commands, sit, paw, down and wait. He will do this outside however, if there is another dog or person, I'm invisible. Would training him around a dog I know work and would he apply that behaviour when he sees other dogs. And it's the same for people? I know it's trial and error with dogs, I just wanna make it more enjoyable for myself and Zeus.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

Published on November 3rd, 2017

What a great question and thought process! The key with training any behavior is that the dog has to be able to generalize the behavior in any situation. That's why some dogs will be wonderfully behaved in a training class, but then may not behave in any other situation. Training Zeus around another dog is a great start, but you will have to continue that trend with multiple other dogs (including ones that he doesn't know) and multiple people. The easiest way to do this will likely be to do your training while you are a distance away from other people or dogs, then slowly decrease that distance as Zeus becomes reliable with his training under those circumstances. Again, the key is to have him generalize his training so he responds under any circumstances. This is not as easy as it sounds and will require some time. If you find yourself getting frustrated, certainly consult with a trainer for additional suggestions.
Good luck! I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
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