Going through my messages this morning, I found it. I knew it would be there…the client who claims that the family dog “…just doesn’t listen!”
Maybe I’m being picky about semantics here, but really: your dog is listening…she’s just not understanding. Dogs like to keep things simple: Sit. Down. Come. Long, drawn out explanations of your desires–Sophie honey, mommy wants you to sit! Sit down. Sit yourself down right now, young lady–are not effective.
Likewise, the unintentionally frightening body language we sometimes employ can confuse and unsettle a dog. If your puppy has an accident in the house, racing across the room, arms flailing and lungs bellowing does not convey calm, authoritative leadership. It’s just scary. Please don’t do it.
Dogs do not instinctively understand human language. Telling a dog to sit before showing a dog how to sit is frustrating for both of you.
Fortunately, you and your dog can bridge this communication gap. To speak to your dog, learn to speak her language.
• Eye contact — Whatever you look at, you reinforce. Look at the sock thief hightailing it around the dining room table or the dog that’s jumping wildly and you’re guaranteed a repeat performance. Gaze into her eyes when she’s chewing a bone or sitting for attention and you’ll condition that behavior just as easily.
• Body language — Calmness demands respect. The more contained you are, the more confident you appear. The reverse holds true, too. Don’t expect your dog to stay composed when you’re out of control. If your dog loses it when the doorbell rings, place her on a leash or station her 6 to 10’ feet away while you answer the door. Whoever is in front is in charge, while opening the door and/or walking.
• Tone — A clear and directional voice is key. Yelling is barking. High-pitched, lovey-dovey sounds are playful or unsure. When teaching your dog new words, think “Tell and Show”. Put a word to all routine activities, such as “car” or “upstairs” and encourage her to walk with you with a toy or treat as you go. Avoid staring at your dog while teaching her words; she won’t know what to do. Tell…then show.
Look at your dog whenever she’s being good: chewing a bone, sitting for attention, going to the bathroom in the right place, even sleeping. Say “Yes! Good girl!” with enthusiasm. Offer a treat if there’s one handy. And give her a kiss from Sarah.