SPACED OUT!
By Maggi Forootan – Lead and Love K9
In a dog’s world space is not some otherworldly dimension…it’s a language.
Space. Their space, our space…and how our actions affect space matter greatly to them.
How close, how far. How fast or slowly we move in space. What angle and what kind of stance we take in space are just like words to them. So much is said to them by how we choose to interact with them spatially.
The conversation begins the instant you start moving into a dog’s space, and gets personal when you reach his physical space, which is about three feet from his body.
If you want more trust from a dog move into his space slowly and on an angle, instead of head on…this can be very intimidating. Not so slowly however, that it seems like stalking…no one likes a stalker! Soften your posture; avoid direct eye contact and staring. Do not smile…the showing of teeth can be threatening to some dogs. Do not speak in a weird, high pitched voice. Dogs just don’t get those strange sounds coming out of your mouth (“what’s that awful squealing sound?! Is she eating a mouse?!”)
Stay calm! Keep your hands to yourself. Let the relationship unfold in a polite, non-threatening manner.
THE MAGIC TOUCH
Physically touching a dog is taking spatial interaction to the next level. Make sure your dog is comfortable and ready for physical touch. Not all dogs like to be touched the way we think they should like to be touched, and that’s ok! Honor and respect that. Firm stroking starting at the shoulder and moving down the back is way more soothing to them than the abrupt PAT, PAT, PAT on the head.
UNDER PRESSURE
I use spatial pressure frequently when I train dogs…moving quickly into their space as a way to communicate. I only do this once I have established trust. They learn quickly, and confusion is minimal. Using space to communicate to them makes sense…it’s a language they understand.
So don’t space out when it comes to the importance that space has for your dog! Take the time to observe how your use of space affects them, and make adjustments when necessary.
It will be like saying to your dog “I love you to the moon and back!”
LEAD AND LOVE K9…RULES, GUIDANCE, LEADERSHIP AND LOVE
Family dog training in Orange County, California