When Training Falls Apart: Why Dogs Regress (and What to Do About It)

Have you ever felt like your dog has forgotten everything they once knew?

In this episode, Kim and Carla unpack one of the most common—and misunderstood—issues dog owners face: behaviour regression. From puppies who suddenly stop recalling, to adolescent dogs who appear to “lose” their training, to adult and senior dogs whose behaviour changes seemingly overnight, this conversation breaks down why regression happens and how to respond without panic or punishment.

We explore:

• Why adolescence is a peak time for training setbacks (and why this is completely normal)

• How hormones, brain development, stress, and environmental changes affect behaviour

• Why training that works at home often falls apart in the real world

• The role of health, pain, and sensory changes in sudden behaviour shifts

• Why using tools like long lines or going back to basics is smart training—not failure

• How early recall training and real-world exposure can future-proof your dog

• When behaviour change is a training issue—and when it’s time to call the vet

This episode is essential listening for dog owners feeling frustrated, trainers supporting adolescent dogs, and anyone worried that they’ve “done something wrong.” Spoiler: you haven’t.

If your dog feels unpredictable right now, this conversation will help you understand what’s really going on—and how to support them through it.