The 3 Myths That Make Dog Owners Hesitate (And How Our Clients Overcame Them)

Bringing a dog into your life is one of the most rewarding decisions a person can make. Whether you’re adopting a puppy, rescuing a dog in need, or raising a working dog, the journey is filled with loyalty, learning, and love. Yet when it comes to training, many dog owners in Alaska and beyond hesitate to take the next step, often because of deeply held myths or misconceptions.

At Alaska Dog Works, we’ve spent decades helping clients not only train their dogs but build stronger, more reliable partnerships with them. As professional dog trainers based in Anchorage, we understand the unique challenges of raising dogs in the Last Frontier. From harsh winter conditions to high-energy sled dog breeds and everything in between, we’ve seen it all, and we’ve helped hundreds of clients get the results they were once unsure were even possible.

In this article, we’ll unpack the three most common myths that make dog owners hesitate when it comes to professional training. More importantly, we’ll show you how real Alaska Dog Works clients overcame these hurdles, and how you can, too.

Myth #1: “I Should Be Able to Train My Dog on My Own”

Why It’s a Common Belief

Many dog owners believe training should be instinctive. After all, dogs have lived alongside humans for thousands of years. With enough love, repetition, and maybe a few YouTube videos, surely anyone can teach their dog to behave, right?

This DIY mindset is understandable. But while love and patience are essential, they’re not substitutes for a proven training strategy, especially when you’re dealing with behavioral challenges, specialized working dogs, or dogs bred for high drive like Malamutes, Siberians, or German Shepherds.

Real-World Example: Meet Jason and Kodiak

Jason, an Anchorage-based outdoor enthusiast, adopted a six-month-old Husky named Kodiak. As a first-time dog owner, he was excited to train Kodiak himself. He watched videos, bought books, and even enrolled in a free online course.

Despite his efforts, Kodiak’s behavior worsened. He pulled relentlessly on the leash, barked incessantly at wildlife, and refused to come when called. Jason was frustrated and felt like he had failed.

That’s when he reached out to Alaska Dog Works. After a free strategy call with our team, he enrolled in a customized obedience program. Within six weeks, Kodiak was walking calmly on a leash, responding to off-leash commands, and showing confidence in new environments.

The Takeaway

You don’t have to do it alone, and in many cases, doing it alone can lead to more stress and fewer results. Our expert trainers use science-backed techniques and real-world experience to get lasting results. Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or have raised dogs for decades, there’s no shame in getting help. It’s the smart thing to do.

Myth #2: “Professional Dog Training Is Too Expensive”

Why It’s a Common Belief

On the surface, professional dog training can seem like a luxury. Between groceries, rent, and vet bills, adding a training program might feel like a financial stretch. Many dog owners convince themselves they can “wait until the problem gets worse” or “try one more DIY method” before making the investment.

But what’s the cost of inaction?

Untrained dogs often damage property, escape the yard, act aggressively, or become liabilities in public. Worse, they may end up rehomed or surrendered, not because they’re bad dogs, but because they lacked proper training.

Alaska Dog Works even offers financing for its programs. 

Real-World Example: Meet Tonya and Max

Tonya adopted Max, a young Labrador mix, from a shelter. Sweet and playful at home, Max turned into a barking, lunging mess during walks. He once pulled her into the street chasing a squirrel, and Tonya injured her wrist trying to restrain him.

Tonya hesitated to invest in training, worrying it might be out of her budget. But after another near-miss on a hike, she realized the real cost was her peace of mind and Max’s safety.

She called Alaska Dog Works and learned about our payment plans and tiered programs. She enrolled in a four-week leash reactivity course. The result? Max now walks by her side in any environment, even when moose cross their path.

The Takeaway

Dog training is not an expense, it’s an investment. An investment in your dog’s safety, your family’s peace of mind, and your freedom to enjoy life together. At Alaska Dog Works, we offer flexible options to meet your needs, without compromising on the quality or effectiveness of training.

Myth #3: “My Dog Is Too Old/Too Stubborn/Too ‘Different’ to Be Trained”

Why It’s a Common Belief

We’ve all heard it: “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” Or, “That breed is just too wild to be trained.” These limiting beliefs keep countless dog owners stuck, resigned to a life of compromise and frustration.

The truth? Every dog can learn. We’ve worked with aggressive rescues, skittish seniors, stubborn sled dogs, and everything in between. The secret lies in understanding the dog in front of you—and building a training plan that suits their unique needs.

Real-World Example: Meet Mary and Bella

Mary, a retired teacher in Palmer, adopted Bella, a 9-year-old German Shepherd who had bounced between homes. Bella was fearful, reactive to strangers, and unwilling to be handled at the vet.

Mary worried it was “too late” to help Bella adjust. But she wanted to give her a real home, and called Alaska Dog Works for help.

We paired Mary with one of our behavior specialists, and together they worked through desensitization protocols and confidence-building exercises. Within three months, Bella was relaxed on walks, tolerating vet visits, and even greeting neighbors at the park.

The Takeaway

No dog is “too much,” “too old,” or “too far gone.” Every behavior is a form of communication, and with the right tools and guidance, you can turn the story around. At Alaska Dog Works, we meet each dog where they are and help them grow into who they’re meant to be.

Meet the Trainers Behind Alaska Dog Works

Michele Forto at Alaska Dog Works is a leader in professional dog training throughout Anchorage and the greater Alaska region. Our team includes certified trainers with decades of experience in obedience, working dogs, therapy, and service dog training, as well as behavior modification.

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, we customize each training program based on the dog’s age, breed, temperament, and goals. Whether you need help with basic obedience or advanced service dog training through our Lead Dog Service Dog Training program, we’ve got you covered.

We also understand the unique challenges Alaskan dog owners face, from backcountry adventures to extreme winter conditions. That’s why our programs are designed to equip both you and your dog for real-world success, not just obedience in the classroom.

How Our Clients Win, And So Can You

We’ve helped hundreds of dogs transform from anxious, reactive, or unruly to calm, focused, and reliable. Here’s what some of our clients say:

“I never thought my rescue Malamute would be able to walk without pulling, let alone heel off-leash. Alaska Dog Works changed everything.” – Sarah, Anchorage

“The Lead Dog program helped me train my service dog from scratch. I now have the confidence to travel and live independently.” – Jake, Wasilla

“They didn’t just train my dog. They taught me how to lead.” – Carlos, Eagle River

Ready to Bust Through the Myths and Start Fresh?

If you’ve been holding off on dog training because of these common myths, you’re not alone. But as our clients have shown, you don’t have to stay stuck. Whether your dog is 6 months or 10 years old, a purebred working dog or a shelter mutt, there’s a path forward—and we’re here to help guide it.

Take the first step today. Schedule a FREE strategy call with one of our expert trainers.

Together, we’ll assess your dog’s behavior, your goals, and the best path forward. No pressure. Just honest advice from real professionals who’ve been in your shoes.

📞 Call us at 907-752-DOGS

Or visit us online at alaskadogworks.com to book your free consultation.

Your dog deserves a confident leader—and that leader is you.