Most every dog I've ever owned could read me like a book. That's half the human/dog connection.
Things as simple as meeting a shy dog by kneeling down and turning sideways to the dog then letting the dog make the first move can be calming to it. It's way more relaxing/calming to the dog then hovering over it and calling it to you. That can be threatening to many shy dogs.
Reading our body language is much more important to our dogs then our verbal discussions with them.
Wendy Lefebvre Webboard User Reg: 12-08-2005
Posts: 1271
Loc: Stoney Creek , Ontario, Canada
Offline
interesting....
I have to agree with Bob about how we approach a strange dog...or how I do anyway. Generally based on how they are approaching me.
Tail wagging, mouth open, tongue hanging out (ummm...the approaching dog is doing that, not me!) those dogs I generally just have my hand out ready for a head scratch.
Dog approaches tail a bit down and maybe a bit apprehensive, I will give no eye contact and generally let them come to me, give a good sniff and once they've assumed Im "ok" i'll scratch them.
Shy dog, tail between legs, doing the whole rolling over scenario I scoot down, still not necessarily giving eye contact, but definately letting the dog know that everythings honky dorey.
When I bring in a new foster or work with a new dog at the shelter, our first meeting is in a room with me sitting on the floor reading a book. The dog approaches at their own pace, and I am not threatening them with direct eye contact.
The two "calming signals" I use most are downcast eyes and non direct approach. These are things I learned working with skittish horses, though, not dogs. I think things like these are universal signs of non-threatening behavior, and apply to many species.
My dogs know exactly what I am thinking and feeling the minute I walk in the door. I agree with Bob, that this is due to the connection/bond we have... my neighbor's dog would not react the same way as my dogs do to certain subtle visual cues I give...
When purchasing any product from Leerburg Enterprises, Inc. it is understood
that any and all products sold by Leerburg Enterprises, Inc. are sold in Dunn
County Wisconsin, USA. Any and all legal action taken against Leerburg Enterprises,
Inc. concerning the purchase or use of these products must take place in Dunn
County, Wisconsin. If customers do not agree with this policy they should not
purchase Leerburg Ent. Inc. products.
Dog Training is never without risk of injury. Do not use any of the products
sold by Leerburg Enterprises, Inc. without consulting a local professional.
The training methods shown in the Leerburg Ent. Inc. DVD’s are meant
to be used with a local instructor or trainer. Leerburg Enterprises, Inc. cannot
be held responsible for accidents or injuries to humans and/or animals.
Copyright 2010 Leerburg® Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved. All photos and content on leerburg.com are part of a registered copyright owned by Leerburg Enterprise, Inc.
By accessing any information within Leerburg.com, you agree to abide by the
Leerburg.com Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
Calming Signals?
#365683 - 08/22/2012 02:08 PM 
Top
Re: Calming Signals?
[Re: Carol Blumlein ]
#365705 - 08/22/2012 10:37 PM 
Previous Topic
Index
Next Topic
.jpg)
.jpg)
