13/11/2023
When dealing with a nervous pup, or even one that gets a bit antsy in certain situations, having a chat with them can do wonders. Some might raise an eyebrow at my conversations with dogs, but I make a habit of checking in regularly. If I notice a change in their body language, a curious gaze, prolonged focus on something, a step backward, or if I sense a potential trigger approaching, I start asking questions and providing reassurance. I'm also a fan of labelling things plainly. Just like when I ask, "Do you want dinner?" I might say, "Here comes someone; let's cross the road," in a matter-of-fact tone if I know people are a trigger for the dog. No fuss, just a casual heads-up. If a dog is barking at night during a potty break and there's no apparent reason, I let them know I've got it handled and there's no intruder in the yard. I might or might not thank them for keeping me in the loop or trying to be my furry guardian. Sometimes, the way we speak and the tone we use can defuse a situation before it escalates or at least interrupt it if they're still tuned in.