Why are you ignoring me?”

“Why are you ignoring me?”

I hear this a lot when I’m out and about not just from clients, but from witnessing the general public with their dogs too.

But when we ask this question to our dogs, is it out of annoyance and irritation or are we really looking for the answer?

No one likes to be ignored, and when it comes to our dogs, it can feel especially frustrating.

However, If our dogs aren’t listening, it’s up to us to find out why.

So, why do our dogs ignore us?

Often, it’s about safety. Dogs are incredibly sensitive, intelligent beings. When they go into sensory overload, their autonomic nervous system kicks in, and their “listening ears” shut off.

What can you do if your dog seems to be ignoring you?

Create Space.
When a dog doesn’t feel safe, their autonomic nervous system kicks in, and their “listening ears” shut off there will usually be a trigger nearby. Giving them more space from the trigger (dog, bike, bird) helps expand their window of tolerance, allowing them to re-engage with you. Remember Each dog’s needs are different, including how much space they will need.

Use Food.
If your dog won’t take food, you’re likely too close to the trigger their window of tolerance is shut, and they’re over-aroused ( fight or flight ) so if you offer food and they don't take it, by creating enough space so you get to the point where they’ll accept food can help you understand just how much space they need from their trigger in order to feel safe and be regulated around it.

Stay Calm.
If you’re repeating commands in frustration, your dog won’t think it’s about them they’ll assume something is wrong in the environment. Staying calm helps them feel safer and more connected.

Side Note:
When it comes to assistance dogs, ignoring can be a whole different story.

These dogs are trained to tune into our needs whether they be psychological or physiological. If I they don’t respond to a command, it might be because they sense that the internal or external environment isn't safe / regulated and something needs to shift first before listening to what is being asked of them. They’re not ignoring me out of defiance they’re making a thoughtful decision based on the needs of the human.

Your dog isn’t ignoring you on purpose they’re just doing their best to feel safe or, in the case of assistance dogs, to support you in the way they believe is best. By understanding this, you can strengthen your bond and communication.