Because Rusty was only 6 weeks old when I got him, I noticed that he smacks his lips when he was getting ready to go to sleep, so I would smack my lips and he would instantly snuggle to go to sleep. I also yawn and make sure he sees me yawning in stressful situations as this shows him that there is nothing to be concerned about, ie: thunderstorms, sirens, etc. If he was being a naughty boy, I would grab him by the scruff of his neck and give him a little shake, just like his Mom would do. One of my books talks about these as being doggie language and it works. Growling a low growl is "back off buddy" in their language. A high pitched happy voice creates excitement. A calm voice creates calm. I would also pretend to lick him by rubbing my nose on him like his Mom would do and he loves that! By doing that he knows I am his Mommy and I love him, LOL.
__________________  Rusty, Cheyenne, Bubbles, Chewie, Macayla, Samantha Every day is so much fun!
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