Understanding “why” questions may seem essential to managing our dog’s behavior, and while they sometimes help, they’re often a subtle way of wishing our dog would simply stop an undesirable action. We might believe that by uncovering the “why,” our dog will change. However, in animal behavior and training, “why” questions aren’t as beneficial as they may seem.
Why Are “Why” Questions Less Effective?
“Why” questions, though intellectually interesting, rarely provide actionable steps for improving our dog’s behavior. To make progress, we need questions that yield observable and specific insights. Instead of focusing on why your dog is doing something, a more constructive approach centers on “what” and “when.”
The Value of “What” Questions
Start with “what” questions, such as, “What is my dog doing that I find concerning?” Answers to these questions are grounded in observable behavior. For example, when asked, “What does your dog do when a stranger reaches out to pet them?” you might observe, “My dog lowers their head, growls softly, and steps back.” This concrete information provides a snapshot of the dog’s response, helping us understand their discomfort without speculating on the reasons behind it.
The Utility of “When” Questions
Similarly, “when” questions help us identify the specific contexts in which behaviors occur. Behavior doesn’t happen in isolation—it’s influenced by circumstances. Knowing “when” a behavior takes place can guide us in creating a plan to reduce or manage it. For instance, “When would you prefer your dog to walk on a loose leash?” or “When is it okay for your dog to pull?” Answers to these questions highlight where adjustments can be made, like allowing loose-leash walking around town but permitting pulling during activities like skijoring.
Clarifying Desired Behavior
While “why” questions don’t always provide a direct path to solutions, they can still help us articulate what we’d like our dog to do instead. By focusing on specific actions, we can better communicate our goals to our dog, creating clearer expectations and enhancing training success.