How to train dogs to hand signals Your hand signals can be used to train dogs and are easy to perform as verbal commands. Essentially, it’s sign language; You will use your hands to signal to your dog what you want the dog to do, such as sitting or lying down.
Most dogs are excellent at reading body language. Because many dogs it is easier to read what people say with their bodies than normal speech, and this is better in dog training
How to train dogs to hand signals
- Hand signals are useful in a variety of situations.
- For example, they are often easier to use or required for competitive obedience or canine sport.
- But it is known that deaf dogs will not be able to respond to spoken commands.
- so hand signals allow dog owners to train them like any other dog.
- And if you enjoy dog training, this is another thing to add to your dog training skills.
- And you have to think how much your friends will like it when your dog does all kinds of tricks with just a few small movements of your hand.
Attract the dog’s attention
- Hand signals are used in place of verbal commands, and the first step is to get your dog’s attention.
- So that your dog can see your hand signal.
- So make sure the dog is looking at you.
- It is best to provide this training in a distraction-free environment.
- It is best to go to an empty room in the house or outside.
- so that the place is quiet and there is nothing that affects the dog’s concentration and this is an important factor in training dogs in sign language.
- The quieter the place, the better because you want the full focus and attention of your dog without being distracted.
- To get their attention, say your dog’s name, snap your fingers.
- or use a pat on your dog’s head.
- Make another type of sound. Once the dog looks at you, continue training the hand signal.
Give a hand signal
- Many people find it easier to train dogs to basic obedience commands using hand signals before spoken commands.
- If you are verbally training your dog, try to avoid saying the command while working with hand signals.
- From the point of view of dog owners, this can be the hardest part of training dogs to sign language.
- There are some hand signals known by most dog trainers that you may want to start with. However, you can also create your own cues to train a dog.
Follow normal training steps
- To get a dog that understands your body language.
- follow the well-known dog training steps and commands that you are used to working with your dog.
- For example, if you are training the dog to sit.
- use the opposite hand (which is not used to give the hand signal) to place a treat on its head to encourage the dog to a sitting position.
- The dog must be rewarded for good behavior and even successful attempts to follow the command with encouragement and praise for the dog beside the rewards.
- Be patient and balanced, and keep the training sessions as limited as the interest and attention of the dog with you.
- Large dogs may be able to train for longer periods of time than puppies.
