The fundamental form of communication is your attention. This is true whether you are teaching some new skill, practicing an old one, or refining an advanced behavior. When you give your attention to something your dog does - through touch, voice, eye contact, smiling, or laughter - you draw attention to the behavior. This tells your dog that you find the behavior worthy of interest. Dogs, being sociable creatures, find most interaction and attention reinforcing. They value it, and will work to get it. - Julie Cantrell
I could not agree with this more. Here are a couple of tips on promoting this communication.
1️⃣ Bring yourself into a training session committed to focusing on your dog to the same extent that you are asking him to focus on you. ✅Avoid training when you are distracted, frustrated or preoccupied.
This is basic respect and consideration. They do not need to feel your frustration.
2️⃣ Invite learning with your facial expressions and demeanor ✅Training should be a positive, pleasant experience for
you and your dog. Soften your eyes. Take a deep breath.
Relax your body. Smile. When you are relaxed and happy,
your dog will likely be more willing to work.
3️⃣ Communicate Confidence & Composure ✅ Keep an upright but relaxed posture and be still. Too much gestures and body movement can create confusion.
4️⃣ Be consistent & promote cooperation ✅Keep your words consistent along with your tone. Using different words and cues is confusing to your dog. Your are a
teacher, coach and a mentor. You do not need to assume a
tough sounding voice in order to get your dog to listen.
5️⃣ Appreciation is sincere ✅ Praise doesn't need to have a certain tone quality, pitch or gesture nearly as much as it needs to convey that you are sincerely pleased and happy at that moment. 📸 Relaxed body, one gesture and one happy smile.
