Should you stand still? Why?

Should you stand still? Why?

• A. No. They will learn to ignore you.
• B. Yes, it helps you keep control.
• C. It depends on the dog.
• D. Standing still is never recommended.

Answer: (A)

When guiding a dog, your presence needs to be active and clear. Standing still sends a passive signal and reduces your leadership in the moment. Because nothing dynamic is happening, the dog has less reason to pay attention or respond to your cues, and over time they may learn to ignore you. By moving with purpose and using consistent verbal and leash cues, you keep the dog’s attention, make expectations obvious, and maintain control through engagement rather than stillness. The other ideas suggest the opposite or are too absolute; steady leadership comes from clear cues and movement, not from freezing in place.

When guiding a dog, your presence needs to be active and clear. Standing still sends a passive signal and reduces your leadership in the moment. Because nothing dynamic is happening, the dog has less reason to pay attention or respond to your cues, and over time they may learn to ignore you. By moving with purpose and using consistent verbal and leash cues, you keep the dog’s attention, make expectations obvious, and maintain control through engagement rather than stillness. The other ideas suggest the opposite or are too absolute; steady leadership comes from clear cues and movement, not from freezing in place.