 Cousin Eddie – dog communication
I’ve taught plasma physics to engineers, compass and orienteering skills to cub scouts, two kids to drive and a wife to sail. Each was its own challenge that required effective communication at a level that the pupil understood and could relate to.
Dogs are no different.
The key to communicating with your dog is simple. Be a dog with him.
Start slowly to avoid confusing him. Until now, in his mind, you have been the human that feeds, walks and doesn’t play enough with him. Watch how he greets you when you get home. The nose is going a mile a minute catching every nuance of your aroma. The tail is wagging and you may get a few barks.
This is dogspeak for “Hey Dude, Your home.” “You had Chinese for lunch” “Take me out to pee and run around a little.”
You might put your keys, coffee cup and briefcase on the counter then walk to the door to let flea bag out.
Typical human behavior. He’s the dog you’re the human. You reinforced that with your actions and ignored his.
Tonight when you get home, leave your stuff in the car. When you come in the door and you dog starts his routine reach down with both hands and start rubbing his ears. Then bend over or get on you knees. Keep rubbing his ears. Slowly move your head close to his with your nose next to one ear and make a few sniffing noises.
He might freak out at first and back away. Don’t force it. Try this again later when he has calmed down.
More likely you will see an immediate change in the dogs demeanor followed by passionate licks on your face. You’ve just connected with your dog on his level.
Don’t try to force the moment. Let it play out then walk the dog outside talking softly telling him “good dog” or Good (the dogs name). Tell him what you’re doing. “Lets go pottie”. Keep up the chatter using one and two syllable words. Lots of inflection.
Watch how far he moves away from you when doing his business and how quickly he returns to you. If the dog felt the connection he will stay closer to you and return faster. He wants more lovin. Rub the ears and sniff him again. Be ready for more licks.
This is the first step in a journey that will effect both of you.
Try this for a few days and post your results. Then we move to Step Two.
__________________  
Monstro,
Been there, Done that, Got the scars. | 
