Is your dog tuned out when it matters most? Do they ignore your cues outside, even though they know it at home? You’re not alone — and the issue isn’t obedience... it’s engagement. In this value-packed episode, we’re digging into what engagement really means, why it’s the key to joyful, reliable training, and how to become the most reinforcing thing in your dog’s world — without nagging, bribing, or losing your cool. Whether you’re training a distracted adolescent, building confidence with a reactive dog, or just wanting to feel more connected, this episode is full of science-backed strategies and lightbulb moments to help you turn disconnection into partnership. 🧠 In this episode, you’ll learn: What engagement really is — and why it’s more important than obedience Why your dog might be ignoring you (and how to fix it) How dopamine shapes focus, motivation, and connection Three powerful exercises to boost your dog’s engagement right away How to reinforce proximity, attention, and commitment — every single day The mindset shift that turns training into teamwork 🎓 Ready to go deeper? Transform your dog’s attention, focus, and connection in just three weeks with my brand new 21-Day Engagement Training Course. It’s on sale until the end of June, and as a podcast listener you can use the code PODCAST10 for an extra 10% off! 💻 Want to dive deeper into transforming your dog’s behaviour with science-backed strategies that actually work? Check out my digital training products, freebies and online courses at www.listendogtraining.com 📱 Let’s connect! I’d love to hear how you’re using the dopamine trick in your own training: Follow me on Instagram and TikTok → @listendogtraining 🎧 If this episode gave you an “aha!” moment, I’d be so grateful if you left a review 🌟 or shared the episode with a fellow dog lover — it helps the podcast grow and helps more people train with confidence, clarity, and joy!