15 Ways Dogs Love to Hear You Talk To Them
Communicating with dogs comes naturally to us, but it’s important to understand their unique communication preferences. Dogs respond differently to our voices, tones, and body language. So, here are 15 ways to have more meaningful conversations with your pet and strengthen your bond, ensuring that they feel loved and understood.
Warm, High-Pitched Praise
Dogs love hearing a cheerful, high-pitched voice, especially when doing something right. It’s the equivalent of a human pat on the back. Using an enthusiastic tone makes them feel excited and proud. After all, who wouldn’t want to hear “Good boy!” in a happy voice? Dogs certainly do.
Singing to Them
Believe it or not, some dogs love being sung to! Singing, with its musical quality, can have a soothing or playful effect on dogs, depending on the melody. It doesn’t matter if you’re out of tune. Your dog will appreciate the rhythm and the sound of your voice.
Describing What You’re Doing
Talking to your dog during everyday activities helps them feel included and engaged. Describe actions like, “Let’s go for a walk” or “Time for dinner!” This not only reinforces their understanding of routines but also keeps them connected to you.
Using Positive Body Language
They don’t just listen to your voice but read your body language as well. Pairing your words with positive gestures, like open arms or a relaxed posture, amplifies your message. Pups are more attentive when your body language matches the tone of your voice.
Encouraging Exploration
During playtime or walks, dogs appreciate verbal encouragement to explore. Phrases like “go sniff” or “find it” excite them and stimulate their curiosity. These verbal cues let them know it’s okay to investigate, making outdoor adventures even more thrilling for them.
Words Paired With Treats
Nothing grabs a dog’s attention more than the sound of treats being offered! They immediately perk up when you say, “Want a treat?”. Pooches quickly learn to associate specific words with rewards, making these interactions even more exciting. The promise of a treat makes your words music to their ears.
Mimicking Their Sounds
Have they ever tried barking or howling back at your pup? They love it! Mimicking their sounds can spark curiosity and excitement. They see it as playful communication, encouraging more interaction. It’s your way of speaking “dog language,” and they’ll respond with even more enthusiasm.
Encouraging Phrases During Walks
While out on walks, dogs appreciate hearing encouraging phrases like “Good job!” or “Let’s go!” It keeps them motivated and reassures them they’re doing something right. The praise makes walks more enjoyable for them, reinforcing their behavior and strengthening your bond as you explore the world together.
Excited Storytelling
Even though they can’t understand every word, your dogs love it when you tell them an animated story. The ups and downs in your voice signal excitement, and they’ll feed off that energy. They feel involved as you share your day with them, wagging their tails with every inflection.
Soothing, Calm Reassurance
When your hound feels anxious, a soft, calm voice can work wonders. Speaking slowly in a gentle tone tells them everything will be okay. Whether during a storm or a vet visit, they thrive on your quiet reassurances, making stressful moments a little easier to handle together.
Whisper for a Sense of Intimacy
Whispering to your pet is an intimate way of communication that can create a special moment of closeness. Dogs have incredible hearing, and a whisper can draw their attention just as much as a shout. Whispering soft, soothing words can calm an anxious pup.
Embrace Playful Banter
Dogs have an eerie ability to pick up on playful energy, and incorporating light-hearted banter can be a fun way to engage them. Like teasing them with a toy or asking, “Are you ready?” “Who’s a silly pup?” can energize them and excite your play sessions.
Consistent Command
Consistency is vital when it comes to communicating effectively with your canine. Using the exact words and tone for specific commands helps your pup understand what you expect from them. Whether it’s “sit,” “stay,” or “come,” consistently delivering commands in a clear, steady voice reinforces their learning.
Baby Talk
It might seem silly, but baby talk with your companion can create a delightful connection. Dogs are naturally drawn to the playful, exaggerated tone of voice that resembles how we talk to infants. This affectionate communication style brings joy and comfort, making your pooch feel loved and cherished.
Using Their Name
These canines thrive on hearing their names, mainly when spoken affectionately. Using their name in various contexts, like during play or while giving affection, strengthens their identity and connection with you. They become more attentive when they hear it, as it often precedes praise or treats.
