If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “He knows this,” or “She does it perfectly at home,” you’re not alone. Many dog parents experience the frustration of watching their dog respond reliably in the living room, only to seem completely confused at the park. It can feel like your dog is ignoring you or being stubborn. But in most cases, something very different is happening.

You say it once. Nothing. You say it again. Still nothing. By the third time, maybe louder, they finally respond. It feels like your dog is ignoring you. But here’s the truth: Your dog probably isn’t being stubborn. They’re responding exactly how they’ve been trained.