SIT AND STAY

          If there is anything that defines humans as a species, it's speech. And boy, do we use speech.....and to top it off we incessantly talk to our dogs. Dogs on the other hand don't come speaking English....for that matter they have no concept of language at all.

        So now we (primates) have to find a good way to talk to our dogs (canine )- it's like a German talking to a Chinese ....neither one is speaking the other ones language.

        So, how can we make that "noise" into a good communication?
First -     select only ONE word for a specific behavior
Second -  really try not to repeat the command over and over
Third -    try to help your dog out with your voice; meaning the praise voice is happy, goofy and elevated . Your command voice is calm and telling. A low pitch signifies authority  and confidence . Your correction voice should be short and sharp. Remember your voice is a powerful tool.

          I would like to give you an example:
Many humans say the word "come" like a drill sergeant.  It is uninviting to the dog and is exactly the sound that makes every dog stop. Instead, try to sound encouraging and inviting to your dog - see, there is the fun in training!  Run backwards and clap your hands, and watch your dog coming to you with a happy grin on his face.

Yippee!

~Sybille Wells, of Sit and Stay Dog Training