Dogs skilled at reading your body language
CONTRARY to popular opinion, dogs are not as ‘intelligent’ as people think.
They don’t really watch Countdown or look forwards to Christmas (both of which have been said to me lately).
Dogs are, however, incredibly good at reading other animals and that includes humans. Your dog will detect the slightest change in your mood before you do and react accordingly.
Dogs have been communicating with each other for thousands of years using body language and energy and they are flawless.
I was on a home visit this week with an owner who claimed her little terrier Freddie hated black dogs and would react instantly with a show of aggression. Imagine the look on her face when my black Lab Cobra hopped out of the car.
First, I walked by with Cobra on his lead and true to form Freddie barked and snarled at him.
I asked Freddie’s owner to allow me to walk Freddie while she sat inside her car and observed.
After a brief introduction I picked up both leads and walked Freddie and Cobra together around the avenue.
Freddie’s antipathy to black dogs disappeared as soon as he was separated from his owner.
Freddie wasn’t reacting to black dogs he was responding to his owner’s nervousness, who was clearly afraid.
Thankfully, his owner was able to see that changing her own attitude was the answer.
When meeting aggressive dogs for the first time I always use Cobra to give me his feedback on how big a problem we are facing. If he stands-off 20 yards away we have a serious problem. If he closes right in we don’t.
I’ve learned to trust his judgement. The only time I didn’t I was bitten on the leg.
On Thursday, May 12 we have an Open Evening from 7pm to 9pm at The Victory Hall in Mobberley, WA16 7JQ where you are invited to come along and Talk Dogs.
We supply the coffee and biscuits and there is no charge whatsoever.
If you are planning to have a dog or you want to learn more about dog psychology and behaviour please come along and join us. You will NOT need your dog.
You can confirm your attendance by to Text to 07590 560012
Its baked beans have been getting rave reviews and cost just 40p a tin – a cheap and convenient way to reaching your five a day.