Why does my dog ignore me around other dogs?

Amanda Bartoletti
2025-06-10 23:52:36
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Your dog is in a new spot, dogs can be quick to pick up new skills but slow to transfer them to new scenarios—meaning they don’t always generalize their lessons well. After polishing your recall skills in the controlled environment of a training facility, it’s easy to assume your dog knows how to come when called, no matter what. But the fact is that your pup should brush up on his skills every time you visit a new spot. There Are Too Many Distractions, between the pristine grass to mark, new four-legged friends, and the smells from the grill, there are plenty of competing interests that are likely much more enticing in the moment than you. These distractions can lead to your dog acting like you’re invisible.
They’re Nervous or Scared, a new-to-you pooch, whether a pup or an adult dog, will go through a transition period as he adjusts to his new environment. Some dogs sail through it, while others shut down as they try to figure out their new life and friends. This might result in a dog who seems unwilling to engage, or even one who seems to prefer being alone. Your Dog Is Aging, physical decline can happen gradually as dogs age, so it’s not always easy to recognize when a senior dog is slowing down. Senior dogs can experience everything from diminished vision and hearing to cognitive declines, which can then impact their willingness—and ability—to connect with their people.