How to Speak Dog

When I work with families as a dog trainer in the Snoqualmie Valley, more often than not, I see a communication breakdown between the dog and their owner.  The reason why the dogs like the dog trainer is because we speak their language! The example I give to families is what if you visited another country and didn’t know the language. You are trying to figure out what people mean but there is no discernible pattern!  When working with your dogs, be very mindful of your words, your energy and your body language.  Your dog is watching and trying to figure it out.

For dogs, their primary languages are hand signals, body language, energy, and pressure or release of pressure. Not words.

How can you be a better communicator with your beloved dog?

1. Give Training Commands Once

Learning how to give your dog commands can be challenging for both you and your dog. Humans often repeat commands out of frustration during a training session, which is not ideal. It is best to give commands once when you train your dog, so they understand what you’d like them to do after the first verbal cue.

Repeating words during training sessions indicates to your dog that listening the first (or second or third) time is optional. Generally, you want your dog to pay attention to a recall command (for example “come”), so they don’t injure themselves or get hit by a car. When commands mean life or death, always use an engaging voice to communicate the verbal cue effectively.  Say the cue once, give your dog time to respond, and then follow through.

2. Use a Consistent Marker Word

A marker signal offers positive reinforcement when accompanied with rewards like their favorite treats. These signals indicate when your dog has followed a command correctly.

I use “Yes” as the verbal marker to mark good behavior.  Here are the only training words I use:

Yes – means good job, here is a reward.

Good – keep doing what you are doing.

Nope – that is not what I wanted; let’s try again.

Free – you can break the obedience position or get the resource you want.

You can also use hand signals as a marker. Your reinforcer, or treat, should occur within 1-3 seconds after your marker signal.

3. Pair Verbal Cues with Hand Signals or Body Gestures

To better communicate with your dog, try pairing a verbal cue with a body signal. Dogs are experts at reading and noticing body language, because that’s how they communicate with other dogs in packs and social situations.

One signal that works well is the open hand signal, which is used when training pups to sit. Open your hand every time you say “sit,” and your dog will come to understand this command. Eventually, all you will need to do is open your hand, and your dog will sit.

Hand signals are an incredibly valuable mode of communication when you take your dog to a crowded area or setting where hearing is difficult. By associating hand signals with commands, you give yourself another way to deliver information to your dog, which can be a lifesaver in an emergency.

4. Use of a Release Word

I use Free as my release word. Examples of other release words include:

·        Okay

·        Done

·        Break

·        Release

A release word is crucial when coaching your dog.  Teach your dog when it is OK to break an obedience position or access a resource like food, freedom on a walk, really anything the dog wants.

5. Speak Less!

Be aware that most of what you say is tuned out by your dog. You need to be clear when you give commands by using a start cue. Let your dog know it’s time for training and communicate clearly.  

When talking to your dog, give a verbal start cue, and be silent. Do not confuse your dog with extra talking. Remember, all that added human interaction and exchange also affects your body posture, tone of voice, and attitude during the session.

Effective communication with dogs involves respecting their boundaries. Just like humans, dogs have personal space, and invading it can cause stress or anxiety. Signs of discomfort can include turning their head away, backing up, or showing their teeth. Be mindful of your dog’s body language, especially if they are feeling threatened, overstimulated, or afraid.

I have had families tell me their dogs stress levels decreased when they talked to them less!

6. Coach Your Dog on How to Behave

Interrupting your dog with an animated “pup pup” or “Eh-Eh” is a good way to avoid inappropriate behavior. Help your dog succeed by showing them how to behave before they have the chance to exhibit undesired behavior, such as counter surfing.

If your dog tends to counter surf, it’s best to give them a place in the kitchen to lie down and reward them with treats and praise if they comply. Dogs may lie on their mats of their own free will or you cueing the behavior will do the trick. You may reward your dog with treats when they relax in the kitchen. If your dog can calmly stand near you with all four paws on the ground and a curious nose away from countertops, they deserve a treat!

Another good idea is to teach your dog to offer polite behavior, such as a “sit,” when greeting guests. Set your dog up for success by having them on a leash and ask guests to approach slowly and calmly. To encourage good behavior, provide your dog with a treat, and only allow guests to pet your dog when they are calm and all four paws are on the floor.

For private dog training in North Bend and the rest of the Snoqualmie Valley, as well as Issaquah and Sammamish, please contact Lead Dog Coaching: https://www.leaddogcoaching.com/