How Learning Actually Works in Dogs — Timing, Feedback Loops & Habit Formation

Listen Dog Training: The Walk & Talk

If you’ve ever wondered why your dog sometimes seems to ‘forget’ things they definitely know… or why your training works great at home but falls apart in the real world — this episode is going to change the game.

We’re diving deep into the actual mechanics of how dogs learn — not the myths, not the guesswork, but the real, science-backed strategies that help behaviours stick.

Whether you’re brand new to dog training or you've been at it for years, this episode will help you sharpen your timing, truly understand feedback loops, and train in a way that actually works for your dog’s brain.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why timing is EVERYTHING — and how to master it without overwhelm
• How clickers and marker words act like timestamps for your dog’s brain
• What a feedback loop is and how to use it to supercharge learning
• Why your dog doesn’t always repeat behaviours that get rewarded — and what to do about it
• The secret to creating lasting habits that don’t fall apart under pressure
• How to spot the missing link when a behaviour isn’t working
• Empowering mindset shifts that will make you a clearer, more confident trainer

💻 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

You can use code PODCAST10 for 10% off all my digital dog training packages, guides & courses!

📱 Let’s connect! 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!