Dog Training – Words and Gesture We Use

Are you training your dog or confusing him?

If you think that only French or Italian speak with their hands, think again. More is being said through the body that verbally. Often our dogs get  confused, tune out or stop paying attention because they get tired trying to make sens of us.

I started some agility training when Timba was a couple of years old. I had to become very aware of my body language. I remember one time going through an exercise where we tried and tried again but Timba kept missing the last part. The instructor did the course with her and she was perfect. I was the one confusing her. I wanted her to make a turn and my shoulders were facing in the wrong direction.

Think about how many times  we send out the wrong signal and blame our dog for not getting it. Dog training is a team effort between you and your dog. To work both need to be in sync. It is not always the dog’s fault.

If you are having difficulties with your training it could be because:

• You are talking to much with your dog
• You tend to have confusing body language.

Keep in mind that dogs are non verbal communicator and use their body to express themselves. They also very carefully read your body language and facial expression. Since most humans are not aware of their body language, we end up with a lot of confused dogs

Turid Ruggas is a trainer from Norway and the author of a wonderful book ” On talking term with dogs” It is a must read for all dog owners. I highly recommend it

When you are training your dog keep in mind the following:

• Choose your words very carefully and it is OK to say nothing and stay silent at times during your training session.

• Control your breathing and your emotions. If you are tense and nervous, your dog will pick up on that and will try to protect you.  Always stay in charge so he does not have to take charge. A deep breath will always calm your energy down.

• Be aware and control your body language. Just for a day monitor your body language and see how confusing you can be.

• Expect the best from your dog: You get what you expect. You dog might not always be perfect but training is about getting better everyday. Praise him when he does something right. Praise him often. See him as the dog you want him to be.

• Know and understand your dog: Dogs are a different specie. They are not humans. And then every dog has a unique personality. Take the time to get to know your dog. The rewards are ten fold.

• Learn about dog body language so you can communicate with your dog in his own language and understand what he is saying. This is very important. Would you travel to a different country with a different language and culture without knowing a little bit about it?

They are a lot of very good books on that subject. I cannot recommend enough books from Turid Rugass.

Tags: dog training tips, Solve dog behavior problems