How to Talk to Puppies With Dog Language

 

Once you comprehend the language of dogs and understand what your puppy "says" through barks, tail wags, and other body language, you'll be equipped to communicate effectively with your puppy. Keep in mind that your puppy isn't a mind reader, and what's considered "normal" behavior for humans may be an entirely foreign language and even offensive to dogs. Utilizing "dog talk" allows you to convey your message more clearly.

Humans, being primates, engage in actions like touching, hugging, gesturing with hands, and adopting a loud and higher-pitched tone of voice when upset. All these behaviors can be confusing or threatening to puppies, and even to adult dogs.

5 Common Puppy Communication Mistakes:

1. Leaning Over Your Puppy: Leaning over a puppy can be intimidating, as, in dog language, it signifies dominance and control. Instead of looming over the puppy, provide space for the dog to approach you. Turn sideways, crouch, or kneel on the floor to avoid appearing challenging.

2. Staring with Hard Eye Contact: Direct eye contact can be intimidating to dogs. Use the pup's calming signals, such as turning your head away and averting your eyes, to communicate that you mean no harm.

3. Pats on the Head: Puppies and dogs may find pats on the head alarming. Instead, offer your hand, palm down, for the puppy to sniff, allowing for a non-threatening introduction before offering a scratch on the chest or neck.

4. Hugging: Hugging is not a sign of affection for puppies and dogs; it may be perceived as clasping, which is associated with dominance. Teach alternative ways for children to show affection to dogs to avoid potential retaliation.

5. Kissing: While humans may interpret kissing as an expression of love, dogs perceive it differently. Dogs show love through other behaviors, and attempting to kiss a dog's face may feel threatening to them.

   

How to Talk to Your Puppy: Now that you understand your own body language, use it to communicate with your puppy effectively. Whether you're correcting behavior or encouraging confidence, communicate with your puppy using canine-like signals without the need to wag your tail.

Clear Signals:

• Use a calm, low-pitched tone of voice and concise words. Avoid high-pitched voices that may sound whiny and convey a lack of authority.
• Consistently use the same words for the same command to establish a routine and help your puppy understand your language.
• Stand tall and carry yourself with confidence, conveying leadership without the need for dramatic gestures.
• Mimic how dogs use body language to control movements without using hands. Use body blocks, shoving, leaning, and controlling space.

Calming Signals:

• For shy pups, use a higher-pitched, slow, and soothing voice to reassure them that you pose no threat.
• Avoid looming over the dog; crouch or kneel instead. Allow the pup to approach you naturally.
• If you must approach, do so at an oblique angle rather than directly toward the puppy.
• Employ calming signals like licking your lips, yawning, looking away, or using a dog laugh, such as mimicking a sneeze or breathy "ha-ha-ha-ha" sound, to signify a lack of harm during play.