Dog trainer reveals why your dog might be ignoring you - and it's not personal!

A dog trainer has shared that when our beloved furry friends ignore their owners, it's often because they think something else is much more interesting - they're not really being disobedient. 

Dogs can come with big personalities and quirks, and sometimes, dog owners struggle to train them or understand why their dogs behave in certain ways. Dog accessory brand, TopDog, has researched some of the most common behaviour traits and asked dog trainer Terry Cuyler for her insights.

Dog recall

Terry says that when dogs don't come when called, it's usually because they want to do something else that's more interesting or rewarding: "It's not because they're being disobedient or 'cheeky', and it's not personal; they're just doing what seems best at the time."

To help owners recall their dogs, Terry advises making this a rewarding experience to help them remember, such as giving them treats, praise and making it fun. She also recommends building up to busier environments: "Training in environments that get more and more distracting over time is very important."

"Some breeds are more independent by nature or have stronger prey drives, which can make it harder to get them to come back when you call them. But most dogs can learn to come back when called if you are patient and use the right methods."

Dogs who hide things

Some dogs can have a very cheeky personality and often like to either hide their toys or even hide their owners' things.  

There are some reasons why dogs might hide things:

• Their ancestors stored food in the wild for later use, so it could be instinctive 

• It's frequently a playful activity 

• The game of hide and seek stimulates their minds 

And contrary to popular belief, it is typically not done to cause trouble. 

Terry says, "Dogs are incapable of comprehending the concept of property ownership, so instead of being cunning or causing trouble, they are enjoying themselves and acting on their instincts."

"I've seen this firsthand as a dog trainer. We'll give the dogs toys, and some will immediately start looking for places to stash them - under blankets, behind furniture, even burying them if they can."

As for hiding their owners' things, this can be to get attention or because they are bored or anxious. Dog parents should try giving their dogs more exercise, interactive toys or training sessions to help with the boredom. Terry says: "It is also important not to unintentionally reinforce the behaviour by overreacting when things disappear. Rather, gently guide your dog to suitable toys and activities."

Dogs and their humping

Isn't it a little embarrassing when your dog starts humping you or someone else, or even just the side of the sofa?

Often, owners struggle with understanding why dogs do this, especially if they have been spayed or neutered. Well, Terry says that the reasons aren't always sexual: "Dogs often do things, such as hump things, to show who's in charge, to relieve stress or just to have fun. And smell is a big factor."

For owners who want their dog to stop humping, the best thing to do is to give them more mental stimulation or exercise to help calm down the extra energy that makes dogs want to hump. And consistent praise for good behaviour is also very important, Terry notes. 

If you are ever in doubt over your dog's behaviour, it is always best to seek professional advice, whether that is in person or by reading helpful guides online.