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Writer's pictureSuzanne Tam BSc.

Understanding Dog Body Language: A Key to Successful Training


When it comes to dog training, understanding and responding to your dog's body language is like unlocking a secret code to effective communication. Metropawlitan Dog Training Inc. in Calgary, AB, we've seen firsthand how the ability to decipher your dog's signals can transform the training experience. Here's why dog body language is crucial and how it can significantly impact your training results.


1. Why Recognizing Dog Body Language Is So Important

Dog body language is their primary mode of communication. It's how they express their feelings and respond to various situations, including training. Recognizing these cues offers real-time feedback on your dog's emotional state, making it an invaluable tool in ensuring a positive and productive training session.


2. Common Signs To Recognize

Understanding the subtleties of dog body language is essential. For instance, if your dog leans toward you, it shows curiosity and confidence. On the other hand, if they try to move away or appear stiff, it's a sign of avoidance and discomfort. The tension in their body can indicate their level of comfort, affecting their receptiveness to new lessons.


3. How Dog Body Language Can Affect Training Results

Your dog's response to your training cues is often influenced by their perception of your body language. If you want your dog to come closer when called but you're unintentionally sending signals that make them uncomfortable, it can lead to mixed results. Recognizing these subtle cues can help you adjust your training approach and achieve better outcomes.


4. A Video Example With One Of Our Daycare and Train Dogs





We'd like to share a real-life example from our dog training sessions. One owner came to us with concerns about her dog's possessiveness during playtime. However, by simply adjusting our trainer's body language in the training, we were able to pinpoint the issue effectively, and the dog's behaviour improved significantly. This video demonstration underscores the importance of understanding and using dog body language in your training efforts.


As a dog owner, it's essential to reflect on how body language might be affecting your interactions with your beloved pet. So watch your dog's body language the next time you approach and interact with him. How is he responding upon your approach or to certain obedience commands that you're giving him?

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1 Comment


Amy Simpson
Amy Simpson
Oct 20, 2023

This is hilarious "ok be creepy" But what a great example

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