Dog training glossary
Engagement
Quick answer
A dog's voluntary attention on the handler, offered rather than demanded.
Written by the TailorPup team, updated September 2026. See our editorial approach.
What it means
Engagement is built by making the handler more interesting and predictably rewarding than the surrounding environment, rather than by repeating a dog's name or physically getting its attention. A dog with strong engagement checks in with its handler on its own, especially useful groundwork before tackling distractions or off-leash work.
A real example
A well-engaged dog glances back at its owner periodically on a walk without being prompted, simply because doing so has consistently led to good things.
Common mistake
Trying to build engagement only in high-distraction environments before it has ever been practiced somewhere easy, like a quiet living room.
Related terms
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