[Day 02-Part 02] Understanding the language of dogs: Clear communication for leash training

October 1, 2024

Time to read 5 min

Leash handling: Day 02 of 35 [Part 02]

This video and training session is part of the Leash Handling Concept, a structured programme to develop leash handling skills and the bond between humans and dogs. The concept is carefully didactic and methodical to ensure that each exercise builds on the previous one for maximum effectiveness. It is crucial that you carry out the training in the intended order to achieve the best possible result for your dog.

Leash training is much more than just walking on a loose Leash. It starts with communication between you and your dog. Dogs are masters at interpreting our signals, but they need clear and consistent messages to properly understand what we expect from them.

How often do you call your dog but feel frustrated when he doesn't respond? Maybe it's not because your dog is "disobedient", but because of contradictory signals that you are unconsciously sending him. Body language, voice and emotions play a crucial role in human-dog communication.

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Clear communication for successful leash training

Why clarity in communication is crucial

Dogs are exceptionally good at reading our signals - but they are not mind readers. Your emotions, voice and body language influence how your dog perceives your messages. A common problem is the so-called double bind from communication psychology. This means that your verbal and non-verbal signals are contradictory.

Example: You call your dog with a friendly "Come!", but are internally annoyed because he didn't react immediately. Your body language and tone of voice reveal this frustration. Your dog becomes unsure whether he should come or keep his distance - after all, he recognises the tension in you.

Clear and consistent signals are crucial so that your dog knows for sure what you want from him. Studies show that dogs react strongly to our body language and perceive emotions through our voice and posture. Therefore, pay conscious attention to what you are actually communicating to your dog.

ℹ Double Bind

A double bind is a communication situation in which a person receives contradictory signals that they cannot fulfil at the same time. In dog communication, for example, this can occur when the owner's body language and tone of voice convey different messages, which confuses the dog and prevents it from responding appropriately.

Confusion or disobedience? What your dog really needs

Many dog people assume that their dog is deliberately "disobedient". In fact, we ourselves are often the cause of misunderstandings - through inconsistent communication.

Typical scenario: You want your dog to let go of something and say "Off". The next time you use "No" or "Ugh". You may also pull on the object at the same time. The situation becomes unclear for your dog: should he let go, continue playing or retreat?

The term contingent reinforcement from learning psychology shows how important clear and repeatable signals are. Your dog can only learn if it knows exactly what is expected of it - every time.

💡 Tip

Define fixed auditory and visual signals and stick to using them consistently. Your dog will thank you if he doesn't have to guess what you want every time.

Body language - your most important tool in dog training

Did you know that dogs often understand visual signals faster and more clearly than verbal signals? Studies show that dogs react strongly to movement as they are evolutionarily programmed to process visual stimuli.

Why is body language so important?

Dogs interpret movements faster than words.
Your body language supports your verbal signals by providing the dog with visual orientation.
Inconsistent body language can confuse your auditory cues.

Are visual signals more effective than verbal ones?

Dogs are evolutionarily programmed to recognise visual stimuli quickly and precisely. This ability comes from their ancestors, the wolves, who communicate strongly via body language within the pack. In today's human-dog relationship, visual signals are therefore an indispensable tool that is underestimated in many training situations.

Studies, such as that by Kaminski et al. (2012) on dog communication, show that dogs have a remarkable ability to interpret movements. Visual stimuli activate specific brain regions in dogs, in particular the visual cortex, which is responsible for processing movements. This neuronal connection makes them particularly receptive to clear, visible signals. This is why dogs often recognise gestures such as raising their hand or pointing in a direction more quickly than a spoken command. However, the combination of visual and verbal signals is particularly effective as it appeals to the dog on several sensory levels.

Dogs are true experts in processing gestures and movements. Their ability to quickly recognise visual stimuli makes these signals an essential part of training. By combining them with verbal signals, you can utilise your dog's strengths and establish clear, effective communication. Scientifically proven and cynologically sound: Visual cues are the first step to harmonious training and a stronger connection between you and your dog.

With patience, clarity and practice, you will see how your dog responds more quickly and confidently to your instructions - a real benefit for both of you!

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Summary

Successful leash walking starts with clear communication. Dogs depend on us to send them clear signals - be it through our voice, body language or emotions. By avoiding contradictions and using your auditory and visual signals consistently, you create the basis for harmonious training.

It is also important to take your dog's natural abilities into account: Dogs often understand visual signals faster than verbal signals, which is why a combination of both types of signals is particularly effective in training.

With patience, consistency and conscious communication, you can strengthen the bond with your dog and make it easier for him to walk on a loose Leash. Remember: every little step forward is a success - and an important step towards a relaxed relationship!

[Day 02-Part 01] From pulling to a relaxed walk: How to set realistic expectations for leash walking

The authors: Paulina & Lui

Paulina and Lui are the heart and soul behind Vitomalia [Dogstraining & Store]. Her journey in dog training began with the adoption of her first list dog, Vito. This experience sparked her deep interest in teaching other dog owners about dog behaviour and training. Initially this was just a hobby, but with the adoption of the American Pitbull Amalia, who had been relinquished several times due to severe behavioural problems, her passion developed into a true vocation. Amalia's particular behavioural challenges intensified her interest in dog training and behavioural therapy. This turning point led Paulina and Lui to leave their original career paths, undergo intensive further training and dedicate themselves fully to the subject of dog training. Their work with human-dog teams also revealed a gap in the dog market: there was a lack of safe, high-quality dog accessories specifically for medium-sized and large breeds.

From this realisation, Vitomalia [Dogstraining & Store] was born, a combination of their commitment to professional dog training and the need for quality dog accessories. Paulina and Lui bring their personal experience, extensive knowledge and passion for dogs to every product to help human-dog teams live together.