How to Communicate With Your Dog
Jul 27, 2020
HOW TO COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR DOG
Good communication with your dog has a big impact on their training and well-being, and your positive relationship. Here are a few things you should know.
KEYS TO COMMUNICATING WITH YOUR DOG
According to researchers who study dogs and language (yes, that's their job, and it's pretty neat!), the average dog understands about 165 human words. Some dogs, through intensive training and natural aptitude, learn a lot more than that – there's a border collie who is said to know over 1,000 words! But communicating with your dog is actually less about words, and more about everything else. Here's how to work on better communication with your pup.
It's Not What You Say, But How You Say It
Dogs are incredibly attuned to body language and your overall mood or energy. When you talk to your dog, even when using words they know, the way you say it matters potentially more than what you say.
Your facial expressions, tone of voice, body language, and even attention can influence how your dog reacts. While it can be easier said than done, staying calm during times where discipline or training is needed is super important. If your reactions escalate, chances are your dog's behavior will escalate, too. Your dog is counting on you to keep your cool and be calm and in charge, and if they don't see that from you, things can start to go wrong in a hurry as they try to pick up the slack.
Be firm but calm and positive when it's time for correction, or when you're trying to get your dog's attention. There's also a reason we all talk the way we do when we talk to our dogs – a higher pitch and unusual sounds get your dog's attention.
Be Consistent and Clear
The worst thing you can do for your communication with your dog is to be inconsistent or unclear. Dogs thrive on routine and directness, and will learn quickly if you stick with a plan. Dogs also learn visual cues faster than vocal, so try incorporating hand signals along with verbal cues.
Well beyond teaching basic cues to a puppy, consistency is important throughout your dog's life. If they are allowed on the couch one day, and get an angry reaction a week later, they are understandably going to be confused. Remember that they live in a pretty black-and-white reality; they have no idea that you just vacuumed and friends are coming over. So if you want to stray from the norm at some point, it's up to you to set them up for success.
Another helpful thing to keep in mind is swapping "No!" for something more clear to your dog. "No" doesn't really tell them much, other than something they are doing is making you upset. Saying "leave it" or "sit" might be a lot clearer and tell them what you'd like them to do instead.
Be Consistent and Clear
The worst thing you can do for your communication with your dog is to be inconsistent or unclear. Dogs thrive on routine and directness, and will learn quickly if you stick with a plan. Dogs also learn visual cues faster than vocal, so try incorporating hand signals along with verbal cues.
Well beyond teaching basic cues to a puppy, consistency is important throughout your dog's life. If they are allowed on the couch one day, and get an angry reaction a week later, they are understandably going to be confused. Remember that they live in a pretty black-and-white reality; they have no idea that you just vacuumed and friends are coming over. So if you want to stray from the norm at some point, it's up to you to set them up for success.
Another helpful thing to keep in mind is swapping "No!" for something more clear to your dog. "No" doesn't really tell them much, other than something they are doing is making you upset. Saying "leave it" or "sit" might be a lot clearer and tell them what you'd like them to do instead.
Learn How to Read Your Dog's Body Language
Just like when you communicate with humans, listening is the most important part. With your dog, "listening" means learning how to read their body language.
A dog's ears, tail, mouth, eyes, and overall stance or carriage can all communicate their emotional state. These physical traits are how your dog will tell you how they are feeling, and it's up to you to learn how to read these signs. You can see fear and anxiety, happiness and excitement, and other feelings if you know what to look for.
This is a big topic with lots to learn, so the best thing to do is seek out online sources or books that cover the research and insight into this area. It is well worth it to take the time to learn about canine body language, and will have such a big impact on your communication and bond with your dog.
Treats are a great method of positive reinforcement for your dog, and a meaningful way to continue to strengthen your bond and communication skills.
Browse our shop to see what we've been baking lately. Each gourmet dog treat is thoughtfully hand-designed and baked with love, to help you bond with your dog.
