How to Communicate With a Dog

Good communication is key to a rewarding relationship with your dog. To communicate better with your dog, the conversation must be understood by both parties. Dogs have a unique ability to make sense of the majority of what is said to them. Once you understand their language, you will be able to communicate with ease to your dog.These tips can help with the conversation flow both ways.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Keep your commands simple. Words that are clearly enunciated are the best, and utter them once for maximum effect. If your dog does not respond, it might not be that they do not hear you. Instead, they might not be listening.

2. Dogs can understand hundreds of words, but they associate some with a specific object or action. Dogs pick up on the tone of your voice (happy or sad) and respond accordingly.

3. Listen closely to your dog. The tone of their bark can warn you whether a friend or foe is approaching your home.

4. Rapid blinking by your dog is a sign of nervousness or deep thought on their part. Look deep into their eyes, while giving your dog a vocal command.

5. Dogs use urine markings to communicate with others, it usually indicates territorial, possession or hostility toward others. Notice where your dog is marking, and you will be able to understand and address their concerns.

Tips & Warnings

• Be patient. Your dog is doing his best.
• Don't get mad at your dog for not understanding you. Simply try a different approach!