Learned Helplessness
Learned helplessness is a psychological state in which a dog stops trying to change or avoid an uncomfortable situation because past attempts have failed. In training and behaviour, it often looks like shutdown, passivity, or a lack of responsiveness. This response is not stubbornness. It is a sign that the dog has learned their actions do not matter or lead to relief.
In this section of the blog, we explore what learned helplessness is, how it develops, and why it is a serious welfare concern. Articles highlight warning signs to look for and provide guidance on how to rebuild agency, motivation, and confidence in dogs who have experienced repeated stress or coercive handling.
Common causes of learned helplessness include harsh training methods, unpredictable outcomes, chronic stress, or repeated exposure to situations where the dog had no control. Once it sets in, dogs may become hesitant to engage or stop offering behaviours altogether.
At Belle & Bark, we are committed to preventing learned helplessness through ethical training that emphasizes communication, choice, and emotional safety. When we give dogs clear feedback and consistent reinforcement, we help them feel safe enough to try again.
Browse the posts below to understand how learned helplessness can impact your dog’s behaviour and well-being. Learn how to recognize it early and how to support recovery through trust-building, positive reinforcement, and a renewed sense of control.
