What happens if I contact a dog trainer and my dog DOES misbehave during the lesson?

I've had a number of clients apologise to me about their dog's behaviour during the lesson. The thing is, if you contacted a dog trainer, you've asked for help. People who have perfect dogs don't go to dog trainers. Owners who are concerned about their dog's behaviour and choices do!

What if your dog has the biggest meltdown during a training session? What if they bark nonstop, growl, lunge, or refuse to listen? You might worry that your dog will embarrass you or that the trainer will judge you.

Let me ease your mind: at The Dog Star Academy, we’ve seen it all, and no, we won’t judge you or your dog. In fact, these moments are often the most productive because they give us valuable insights into what’s really going on.

Why It’s Okay if Your Dog “Acts Out”

When dogs show their big emotions during training, it’s not a failure—it’s an opportunity. These behaviours tell us so much about how your dog feels, what might be overwhelming them, and where we need to focus our efforts.

For example:

• Is your dog barking or lunging? That could mean they’re feeling unsafe or unsure in their environment.
• Are they ignoring commands? Maybe they’re distracted, stressed, or don’t fully understand what you’re asking.

These behaviours aren’t about being “bad”—they’re your dog’s way of communicating. Our job as trainers is to listen, understand, and help them find better ways to cope.

No Judgement Zone

You might feel embarrassed, but I promise you—there’s no need. You called a trainer to get help, and that’s the best thing you could do for your dog.

At The Dog Star Academy:

• We’ve worked with barking dogs, lunging dogs, even dogs who’ve bitten people.
• We’re here to guide you, not shame you.
• We believe that every dog has the potential to grow, no matter how big the challenges seem.

Your dog’s “worst” behaviour might feel overwhelming, but to us, it’s a puzzle we’re excited to solve.

Why Big Emotions Don’t Mean Big Punishments

We don’t believe in harsh methods or punishment for dogs showing big emotions. Stress and fear often fuel these behaviours, and punishment only adds to the problem. Instead, we focus on:

• Calm, kind guidance: Helping your dog feel safe so they can learn.
• Building trust: Strengthening the bond between you and your dog.
• Teaching strategies: Showing your dog better ways to handle their emotions.

Big outbursts don’t scare us—they’re a chance to show your dog that there’s a better, less stressful way to handle the world.

What You Can Do Before the Lesson

If you think your dog might have a rough time, here’s how to prepare:

• Give them a light breakfast. Feed only ¼ of their usual meal to keep them motivated for treats.
• Use high-value treats. Prime 100 Dog Roll, chopped into small pieces, works great!
• Keep them on a leash. This gives us control and ensures safety during training.
• Practice X-Factor training. If you’ve booked with us, go through these bonus materials before your session to help your dog settle more easily.

What Happens After the Lesson?

If your dog “acts out” during training, it gives us a clear picture of their struggles—and that’s where the magic begins. Together, we’ll create a plan tailored to your dog’s needs and teach you the skills to handle those tricky moments.

The best part? Many of our clients report seeing improvements in their dog’s behaviour even after just one session.

Ready to Get Help?

Whether your dog is having big feelings or acting like an angel, we’re here to help. Call Elle at 04 9399 0578 for a free consultation, or fill out our behaviour questionnaire to get started.

Your dog’s “worst” behaviour isn’t the end—it’s the beginning of their transformation. Let’s tackle it together!