When they only have one hand free, however, they make sure their dog knows the one-handed version of an ASL sign, which is called Deaf Dogs Sign Language (DDSL). When training hand signals for deaf dogs, many pet parents use the American Sign Language (ASL) Trusted Source PubMed Central Archive of biomedical and life sciences journal literature. Practice a few times each week to keep the training fresh in your dog’s mind.Always show the hand signal before giving the verbal command.Start by teaching verbal commands and then introduce hand signals as the next step.Be patient and stay consistent during your training sessions.Reward your furry friend frequently with treats for good behavior.Get your dog’s attention using their name, a clicker, finger snaps, or even a whistle.Make sure your pup gives you their full attention during the training session.Train in a quiet, distraction-free spot, like an empty room or a peaceful outdoor area.Let’s review some helpful tips for teaching your dog hand signals. When you use hand movements along with your voice commands, eventually, your dog will connect the hand signal with the spoken command, and you can drop the verbal part. Using hand signals with dogs might seem a bit tricky, but don’t worry, it’s actually quite simple – like speaking dog sign language. Now that you know how beneficial sign language can be for both deaf and hearing dogs, let’s talk about what you’ll need to start teaching this form of communication to your furry friend. □ White dogs (and cats) are more likely to carry the congenital traits that result in deafness Trusted Source PubMed Central Archive of biomedical and life sciences journal literature. It increases your dog’s focus and attention on you.Teaching hand signals is a fun and engaging activity.
You can better maintain communication with older dogs.It’s a powerful way to communicate with a deaf dog.It’s essential for participating in obedience and other dog sports.You can give commands in noisy environments.You can confidently command your dog from a distance.Senior pups especially have difficulty hearing as they age, and dog sign language can be a great way to communicate with them in their golden years.īeyond the fact that it keeps your pup’s brain buzzing and beats the boredom blues, here are more reasons why dog sign language is beneficial: Hand signals also prove invaluable for deaf dogs and others who struggle with verbal commands. It spices up their daily routine, gives their brains a workout, and helps alleviate boredom and anxiety. Switch the leash to right hand.Successful communication with your pup is absolutely key to responsible pet parenting, and using sign language for dogs comes with numerous benefits. Signal the dog's position and praise the dog if he obeys.
As you do this, bring the leash behind your back and switch to the left hand. Simultaneously tug on the leash, and command "Heel". (U-Turn to the left, toward your dog) Begin walking with your dog in the neutral position. Left hand and praise the dog when he complies.Ĭontinue moving forward in the new direction. Signal the dog's position by patting your left leg with your Leash behind your back and switch the leash back to the left Simultaneously, command "Heel" and bring your right hand Step back with left leg and turn to the left, facing the rightĬontinue turning until you are facing the opposite direction. Begin walking with your dog in the heel position.