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Teaching Your Dog Hand Signals
by: Deborah Boudreau, Toronto Canada
Dogs are very aware of even the slightest change in your movements - this is part of their inbred self-preservation instinct. This power of observation makes it easy to teach hand signals, either at the same time or after teaching verbal commands.
Basic hand signals are fairly universal, and there are even books to help you on your way. You have the choice as to which commands you wish to teach your dog. The important thing to remember is not to teach a signal that is otherwise a part of your normal routine. For example, if you teach your dog to come to you when you clap your hands, he will come every time you clap - whether you want him to or not. Be prepared to reward that behavior even if you were clapping because your 4 year old blew out all the birthday candles!
Teaching your dog to look for a hand signal is the first step. Teach a specific motion that will indicate to the dog that you intend to give a hand signal. The easiest way to teach hand signals is to speak the command at the same time you are giving the signal. The dog will soon associate the signal with the command. Gradually lower your voice each time you give the command until the dog no longer needs the verbal cue, only the motion. Give lots of praise and rewards during this process. Teach each command separately; do not start a new command until he has each one down pat.
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