"Think about it!" Just what does that mean? While in dog training the inexperienced
trainer is continually reminded to, "Read your dog!"....hhhhmm? What does that mean?
Here are some important perspectives to think about when "reading" a pup/dog.
1) They have no clue of how to irritate people (let alone plan it).
2) Each does what they have been taught or allowed to do (good and bad).
3) All dogs are created equal (NOT)!
4) Pups and dogs thrive on predictable and fair structure which is regularly applied.
5) If a dog cannot be trained regularly, the trainer will become a remedial "reader".
6) A trainer's personality greatly affects his ability to "read". Modify.
Here are a few ways to work on improving “reading” skills.
1) Much of what is “read” about a dog is a direct result of understanding yourself.
2) Make a list of things to "look for” which relate to "reading". It must be yours.
3) The key to "reading" is knowing what to look for. Awareness is not automatic.
4) Plans require a rationale. Learning to "read" requires a conscious effort
which in the beginning may seem mechanical. Accept that premise.
5) Ask someone with experience to critique your "reading" abilities.
6) Video tape training sessions.
Initial list: (a few examples…..and trying to do too many at first will prove frustrating)
1) Get an idea of what a dog’s body language means….research it and see it..
2) Learn to recognize the differences between trying, lack of effort and confusion.
(each is dealt with very differently…….and you must be right)
3) Look for the signs of whether a dog is happy with his work or not.
4) Make a conscious effort to step outside of yourself and look at your own attitude
and timing (not easy).
5) How do I know what my dog knows?
6) How does my dog deal with something new?
7) How does my dog "tell me" we are moving at the right pace (or not)?
A dog's life depends on how well the "reading" goes.
