Canine Communication: Unlocking the Language of Your Four-Legged Friend
When visiting a foreign country, it's essential to learn the language in order to communicate effectively - and the same goes for our four-legged friends. Understanding your canine's communication can be the key to a successful human-dog relationship, and it all boils down to three components: verbiage, body-language, and equipment.
My preferred method of training starts by avoiding verbal commands. The objective is to get the dog to execute commands through body-language and equipment before speaking. This technique helps to train owners to avoid excessive repetition, which can lead to the dog responding only when the command is mentioned once.
To begin, let's use the following steps:
Put a leash attached to the collar on the dog.
Step on the leash, controlling its movements.
Entice the dog with a treat in your hand by offering it once following your hand's movement side to side.
Mention the command AFTER it is executed through body-language.
Mention the command SIMULTANEOUSLY with the body-language.
Periodically mention the command first, before using body-language and or equipment.
Troubleshoot any areas that seem to be breaking down.
Learning your canine's language is an essential part of a fulfilling relationship with your pup. With patience and enthusiasm, success is inevitable.
