## Guide Dogs’ Unique Training Technique Could Help Stop Your Dog Getting Distracted
A new study into canine behaviour has shed light on a familiar struggle faced by pet owners: dogs getting distracted during walks, training sessions, or simply at home. For many, keeping their canine companion’s attention is a constant challenge, with distractions ranging from passing squirrels to the familiar ring of the doorbell. The research, conducted by Guide Dogs, a leading charity dedicated to supporting visually impaired individuals, has highlighted both the extent of the issue and an innovative training solution that may benefit everyday dog owners.
According to the findings, a remarkable 91 percent of dog owners admit their pets have, at some point, ignored commands due to being sidetracked. The biggest attention-stealers include other animals, the post arriving, and unfamiliar noises. In fact, only a small minority – 9 percent – claim their dogs never lose focus. This widespread problem leaves many owners doubting their ability to train their dogs to the disciplined standards exemplified by guide dogs, with two thirds feeling that their own pets could never maintain the same level of concentration.
To help address this, Guide Dogs has revealed some of the methods it relies on during its rigorous training programme. Karen Brady, a training and behaviour business partner at Guide Dogs, emphasised the importance of managing distractions in real-world environments. She explained, “Taking your dog on a walk is a fantastic way for both owner and pet to benefit, but getting a dog to ignore distractions isn’t always possible. The key lies in understanding how to regain their focus and keep them calm when something captures their attention.”
Of particular note is a tool adopted by Guide Dogs trainers that uses a remote-controlled car with a realistic toy squirrel attached. This device allows trainers to mimic real-life situations, like the sudden appearance of a squirrel, in a controlled manner. The aim is to help dogs learn to ignore such temptations and instead remain focused on their handler. This method has proved highly effective in preparing guide dogs for their vital work, teaching them to prioritise their human companion’s needs above fleeting distractions.
Karen Brady notes that the use of such imaginative training tools is not widely known outside the organisation. “Dogs are incredibly smart,” she said. “We can teach them to override their instinct to chase after animals if we consistently reward desirable behaviours. It’s why shining a light on our training approaches – such as our squirrel car – is so important. It helps the public understand the dedicated work that goes into ensuring assistance dogs can perform their duties reliably.”
To empower pet owners to improve their own dogs’ focus, Karen shares several practical tips. She advises shifting the mindset from wanting to stop unwanted behaviour to instead teaching and rewarding the positive behaviour required, such as a solid sit or recall. Patience is paramount — expectations must be realistic, particularly if a dog has developed ingrained habits over years. Initial training should take place in distraction-free environments, slowly building up to more challenging situations as the dog masters each stage.
Another crucial recommendation is to use high-value rewards that can compete with the allure of a passing cat or a game of squirrel-chasing. For some dogs, their favourite toy or a piece of roast chicken may be the ultimate motivator. Sessions should be broken down into manageable steps, never overwhelming the dog or attempting to tackle multiple distractions at once.
Importantly, Karen urges owners not to be discouraged by setbacks. If a misstep occurs, she suggests taking a step back, reflecting, and planning the next session to make reaching the goal easier for both pet and handler. Reassuringly, even professional trainers encounter mistakes, but they know that gradual progress leads to more robust, long-term success.
While most family dogs are unlikely to reach the extraordinary standard of focus displayed by guide dogs, the principles of positive reinforcement training, patience, and consistency can go a long way towards improving a pet’s self-control. As Guide Dogs demonstrates, a blend of creativity and commitment in training is often the secret to bringing out a dog’s full potential — and for many dog owners, that’s an encouraging lesson to take on board.