Dogs are not born understanding English, and humans, with the exception of Lassie’s family, are not born understanding dog. However, we can come to a common understanding of some terms with appropriate training and practice.

Many of us train our dogs daily. We train them to understand that reaching for the leash means we’re going for a walk. We train them to know that opening the cupboard means dinner is about to be served. We teach them that sitting on the sofa means lap time. The key method we use to train these terms is consistent, rewarding repetition. People are naturally very skilled trainers.

Unfortunately, many of us fail to use the same method when training more helpful skills such as sitting when people approach, staying inside when the door is opened, or coming when called. Instead of showing our dogs what we would like them to do, we get excited, flail our arms and raise our voices when they don’t do what we like. I can’t imagine how unintelligent we would be if this is how our public education system worked. Yet we expect our dogs to understand something after a few successful attempts, and we get upset if they make a mistake. Learning almost never happens in a straight line for people or animals. Dogs will make mistakes. Our responsibility as their educators is to ensure frequent, successful, rewardable behaviors. Frequent mistakes may indicate that you have not yet found a successful way to communicate what you want – not what you don’t want. If you find your dog responds only infrequently to your requests, talk with a reward-based trainer.

Sounding out words repeatedly and more loudly does not make your point any clearer than it would for anyone else who doesn’t speak English.

Today’s blog author is Marie Tripton. Marie is the manager of admissions and behavior services at the Richmond SPCA. Call the Behavior Helpline at (804) 643-SPCA.

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