Regression in Training: Why It Happens and How to Handle It
Just when it feels like your dog is making great progress, something changes. Skills your dog knew suddenly seem to disappear, behaviour feels harder, and frustration creeps in.
This is called training regression, and it’s far more common—and normal—than most people realise.
What Is Training Regression?
Regression in training is when a dog temporarily struggles with behaviours or skills they previously seemed to understand. This doesn’t mean training has failed or that your dog is being stubborn.
Regression is part of learning.
Why Regression Happens
There are many reasons dogs experience regression, including:
1. Developmental Stages
Puppies and adolescents go through periods where their brains are reorganising. Hormonal changes, growth spurts, and emotional development can all affect behaviour.
2. Increased Distractions
As dogs become more confident, they also become more aware of their environment. A behaviour that worked at home may fall apart outside or around new distractions.
3. Stress and Emotional Overload
Stress has a huge impact on learning. Changes in routine, illness, household changes, or too much stimulation can reduce a dog’s ability to cope.
4. Skills Haven’t Been Fully Generalised
Dogs don’t automatically apply learning to new situations. A behaviour learned in one context needs to be practised in many environments before it becomes reliable.
5. Pushing Too Fast
Progressing training too quickly can overwhelm a dog, leading to apparent setbacks.
What Not to Do During Regression
When regression happens, it can be tempting to:
• Repeat cues louder or more forcefully
• Assume your dog is ignoring you
• Increase pressure or use punishment
These responses often increase stress and slow progress rather than helping.
How to Handle Regression Positively
1. Go Back a Step
Revisit easier versions of the behaviour. This helps rebuild confidence and understanding.
2. Reduce Difficulty
Lower distractions, shorten sessions, and simplify tasks until your dog can succeed again.
3. Focus on Emotional State
Ask whether your dog is tired, overstimulated, or stressed. Sometimes rest and routine are more important than extra training.
4. Reinforce Success
Reward small wins. Reinforcement reminds your dog that learning is safe and enjoyable.
5. Be Consistent, Not Perfect
Progress depends on consistency over time, not flawless sessions. Keeping sessions short and sweet will allow for better progress and prevent burnout.
Regression Is a Sign of Learning, Not Failure
Regression often happens just before a skill improves. It’s part of how dogs process information and adapt to new challenges.
Handled with patience and support, dogs come out of regression more resilient and reliable.
When to Ask for Help
If regression:
• Feels sudden or severe
• Is linked to fear, anxiety, or reactivity
• Lasts longer than expected
A qualified trainer or behaviourist can help assess what’s happening and adjust the plan.
Trust the Process
Training is not linear. There will be steps forward, steps sideways, and occasional steps back. What matters is how we respond.
At Weird & Wonderful Dog Training and Behaviour, we support dogs and their owners through every stage of training, using evidence-based, positive reinforcement methods that prioritise wellbeing.
If you’re feeling stuck or discouraged, you’re not alone—and support is available.
Casey x