The Conversation About Your Dog That Will Change Everything

A dog trainer’s honest take on why your training efforts might not be working

I recently hung out with some close friends who were dealing with a scary situation – their dog had started snapping at their kids’ friends during playdates.

The frustration in their voice was so familiar. I’ve heard it from literally hundreds of dog owners before. They loved their dog but were starting to wonder if they were in over their heads.

As we talked through what was really happening, I watched the relief wash over their faces. They finally had a path forward that made sense.

Afterward, I realized not everyone has a dog trainer they can call up when things get tough. So I wanted to share what I told them, because if you’re struggling with your own dog, you might need to hear this too.

The Path Every Dog Owner Takes

If we were having coffee and you told me about your dog troubles, here’s exactly what I’d say:

“Almost everyone follows the same path when their dog’s behavior becomes challenging.”

First, you try figuring it out yourself, right? The YouTube rabbit hole of training videos. That book your sister recommended. The well-meaning advice from the guy at the dog park.

You’ve shown your dog so much love and patience. You’ve tried being consistent with the treats and praise when he’s good.

But then he still lunges at other dogs on walks. Still jumps all over your guests. Still ignores you when something more interesting catches his attention.

The Cycle of Quick Fixes

So naturally, you try something else to fix the problem. The special harness that’s supposed to stop pulling. That training app with the 30-day program. Maybe you’re even considering those group classes at the pet store.

I get it. These things seem promising. And they might even work for a little while.

But here’s what I’ve discovered after working with thousands of dogs: What’s actually happening is a fundamental disconnect between what you’re trying to communicate and what your dog believes to be true.

The Real Problem (It’s Not What You Think)

When I work with dogs and their people, I’m not really “training” in the traditional sense. I’m closing the communication gap between two species trying their best to enjoy each day together.

For your dog, I create absolute clarity around which behaviors make his life awesome and which ones don’t. Dogs thrive when the rules make sense.

For you, I simplify everything by explaining why your dog does what they do and give you the easiest ways to help them make good decisions on their own.

The stress you’re feeling? It lives in that gap between what you want and what your dog understands.

When Everything Changes

Finding those specific disconnects in your relationship is the tricky part – that’s where my experience comes in handy. But once we identify and close them, something amazing happens:

The frustration just… melts away.

Your dog relaxes because they finally understand what you want from them and why.

You relax because they actually listen now.

And suddenly, having a dog feels like the joy you imagined instead of the daily struggle it’s become.

It’s Simpler Than You Think

This isn’t about complicated training protocols or being the “alpha” or whatever. It’s literally just about creating clarity so you guys can understand each other.

I wanted to share all this because I’m sure you love your dog, but I am guessing you are also exhausted from the constant battles. You deserve to enjoy your dog, not feel stressed every time you pick up the leash.

Your Next Step

I know it feels overwhelming right now, but I promise there’s a path forward where both you and your pup are happier. I’ve seen it happen too many times to count.

If you’re ready to finally close that communication gap with your dog, we’d love to help. Our experienced trainers can show you exactly what’s been missing and how to fix it – often faster than you’d think possible.

[Book Your Dog’s Free Session Here]

Let’s get you set up with a free session with one of our trainers, so they can show you exactly what this looks like with your specific dog and situation.

Ryan Gwilliam is the founder of Train Walk Poop and has helped thousands of dogs and their families find harmony together. Located in South Salt Lake, Train Walk Poop offers customized training programs that create lasting results.