Communication Breakdowns Between Humans and Their PupsFamilyPet
Communication Breakdowns Between Humans and Their Pups
In order to properly communicate with their humans, whether it’s for food, a walk, or a belly rub, dogs use a combination of vocalizations, eye movement, posture and body language, and hand gestures.
If we were able to speak and have our pets understand what we say, dogs could probably dismantle a nuclear bomb. Since, however, most of us humans are not rocket scientists, relying on a dog to do such seems a bit silly.
Sticking to the basics, one of the most recognizable prompts for dogs is the use of hand gestures – so why is it that humans use them above most commands?
Here are some reasons why hand gestures work so well:
- Doggie see, doggie do – if your pooch is easily excited, chances are they won’t hear a word you’re saying. Seeing the command warrants a response more often than not, because verbal commands are sometimes ignored, for one reason or another.
- While dogs have a higher range of pitch than humans, sometimes they cannot hear what their human asks of them when presented with a command from a distance. Physically seeing a gesture produces a better result.
- By using both your hands and verbal instructions, reinforcing behaviors will help your dog respond to your command more easily.
- As opposed to just yelling, keeping your pooch focused on a hand motion prevents distraction and promotes ease in training.
- Sometimes, the dog has a natural hearing impairment, so stop screaming your lungs off and recognize the issue before your face turns purple. Actions always speak louder than words.
As a new owner, you may find yourself a bit stumped: how do I make these motions? What’s important to remember? Which commands adhere to what gestures? Never fear; these basic hand signals can help you on your way to becoming a great dog trainer – and having a well-trained pooch. Of course, a doggie treat never hurt anyone either.
- Hold your hand out towards your pup as if telling it to stop in its tracks. Your palm should face their nose and point those fingertips upwards.
- Lower your hand or pointer finger towards the ground. Try exaggerating your gesture by holding your hand a bit higher than normal.
- Hold your left arm straight out, so that it is parallel to the floor. Remember, go slow: move your arm in front of your body and touch your right shoulder with your left hand. The slower you go, the more easily they learn – you have to walk before you can run.
- Hold your arm at your side, fingertips pointing down. Raise your arm so that your hand moves in front of your pup’s face and over their head
Having a treat handy always helps with coaxing your pet and complying with your commands. Much like their humans, incentives help keep your pet focused, motivated, and happy with their owners.