The Real Reasons You’re Dodging Dog Training (And Why They’re Lame Excuses)

Let’s be honest. You say you want a well-trained dog, but when it comes time to actually sign up for training? Suddenly, you’ve got a laundry list of excuses longer than your dog’s leash. Time, money, fear of change, “my dog will hate me,” blah blah blah. Heard it all.

Here’s the truth: every excuse is just code for “I’m not ready to commit.” And while you’re stalling, your dog is still dragging you down the street, counter-surfing, or embarrassing you at the park.

Excuse #1: “I don’t have time.”

Oh, really? You have time for scrolling TikTok, posting your dog’s 17th photo of the week on Instagram, and binge-watching Netflix, but no time for training? Please. The time you waste managing bad behavior is already double what you’d spend fixing it.

Excuse #2: “It’s scary to change.”

You know what’s scarier? Living forever with a dog who’s basically a furry wrecking ball. Change is uncomfortable, yes. But so is replacing your couch every six months.

Excuse #3: “I don’t want my dog to love me less.”

Guess what? Setting boundaries doesn’t make your dog love you less. It makes them respect you more. You’re not crushing their spirit,  you’re teaching them to stop being a brat. Spoiler: that actually strengthens your bond.

Excuse #4: “It’ll be too much work.”

Yeah, training takes effort. So does replacing chewed shoes, apologizing to your neighbors, and paying vet bills after your dog bolts into traffic. Pick your hard.

Excuse #5: “I can figure it out myself.”

If that were true, you wouldn’t be here reading this. Dog training isn’t common sense; it’s a skill. And DIY usually makes problems worse. Stop Googling “why is my dog crazy” and hire someone who actually knows.

Excuse #6: “It’s too expensive.”

You get what you pay for. Cheap training = cheap results. A pro is an investment in your sanity, your shoes, and your relationship with your dog. Still think it’s pricey? Price out new hardwood floors after your dog decides they’re a chew toy.

Bottom Line

Your excuses are holding your dog back, not your schedule, not your bank account, not your dog’s “sensitive feelings.” Rip the Band-Aid off, get into training, and watch your dog (and your life) transform. Or keep stalling, and enjoy being the human equivalent of a chew toy. Your call.