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Zekie's mom I would like to use hand signals, as well as verbal signals, to train Zeke to sit, stay, etc. Does anyone know of a good book or video that teaches hand signals to train dogs? |
I train using hand signals as well as verbal commands. I don't have a book, but basically what I do is to think of a hand sign that "works" for me and use that hand signal every time I ask the dog to do that particular command. For instance, for SIT! I use my right hand palm up and raise my hand up as I say SIT! In the beginning I exaggerate the hand signal. As my kids learn the sign I use more and more subtle hand language until finally SIT! is a upward wiggle of one finger on my right hand. My signal for DOWN! is a palm down and downward motion of my right hand - once again exaggerated to begin with but in the end a simple down wiggle is understood and obeyed. |
I would like to add that timing is critical - the hand signal MUST be given at the instant you give the verbal command -- don't forget the six "P's" of training..... Praise - Is the single most important part of training. It should be given frequently and enthuastically. In the beginning praise even when you can tell that your dog is THINKING about obeying. Patience - You communicate using a verbal language - your dog communicates using a non spoken subtle body language. Because you speak different languages there may be times when you both misunderstand each other. Be patient and kind and work at finding a way to communicate that works for both of you. Persistance - Remember, you speak different languages and you need to be persistant in finding a way to communicate with your dog. Love him/her enough to commit to traing and don't give up. Perservance - Sometimes your dog understands what you are asking him to do and simply says "NO" I won't. Perservere - in time this will pass - you have the other 5 "P's" to hold on to while you are in this battle of the minds. Pee and Poop - remember if your dog needs to relieve himself it is hard for himto concentrate. |
Good work on explaining hand signals. Two things though if you want you can then fade out the use of word cue. So that you do not have to use both the hand and the word at the same time to get the dog to sit.. yup if you use both at the same time all the time it can and does happen so vary word and hand signal both and not both to keep them strong. If your going to trial your dog if you cue it hand signal and word it two requested and you will be marked down. Also dogs read hand signals better then follows vocal and make sure you do do both word and hand as if you just use hand and a dog goes blind your in a boat load if trouble fast. JL |
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