One of the first things I notice when I'm teaching a group class is how much people talk to their dogs. Generally, the talking falls into one of two categories: chatter or conversation.
The chatterer's repeat instructions to the dog: "Rover, rover, Rover, ROVER! Ok, now sit. Sit. SIT! Siiiiiit. Good dog, good boy."
The conversators have an ongoing conversation with their dog: "Now are you going to be a good dog and Sit for me? Good dogs sit, can't you sit? What? Do you hear something? It's nothing, just go ahead and sit down for me."
Neither group gets their point across to the dogs. There's just too much talking going on.
Dogs aren't programmed with verbal skills. Sure, they can figure out that when you say "biscuit," something good always follows. But that doesn't mean they understand our language.
To better communicate with your dog, try talking less. Silence is golden, as the saying goes.
Use one-word cues to get behavior. Instead of "lay down," use either "lay" or "down." How confused is your dog when you say "lay down" and "sit down" — both contain the word down (which may also have a meaning to your dog).
So, you've said the word "sit," and your dog looks at you – now what? Wait him out. Don't repeat the word. Look off to the side, at the floor. If the dog doesn't sit within a few seconds, simply walk away. No admonishment, no lecture, nothing. Just leave. Come back in a few minutes and try again.
If he does comply, have a little party and give him a tasty tidbit.
After only a few experiences with this new, less talkative you, your dog will get the idea that if he doesn't do what you ask, he doesn't earn any reinforcement. It's up to him, not up to you, to comply. Simple as that. (Note: He doesn't get in trouble for not complying – he simply misses out on this chance to earn a reinforcer.) Another great side benefit: your words become golden to your dog – they could lead to an opportunity for him to earn a reinforcer. He doesn't want to miss a word you say, and therefore is super-attentive.
Do you think this would work with cats, too?
I am so glad that Typepad highlighted your blog and that I can now add it to my list of favorites. Look forward to reading more from your blog.
Yep, I don’t think species matters. Actually, sometimes I think human-human interactions would go more smoothly if we did less talking. 😉
Think about a parent who says, “Hey kids, turn off the tv and come eat dinner.” If the kids don’t turn off the tv, Mom (or Dad) doesn’t reason with, beg, plead, rationalize or bargain with them — instead, she (or he) simply walks over and turns the tv off. Simple. Done. Kids learn that Mom and Dad really do mean what they say — without the threats and the negotiating and the “noise.” Simple and easy. For both kids and parents.
Frances, thanks! I love the picture of your dog!