Does Your Dog Have Big Feelings? Here’s How to Help Them

Big Feelings. This can be a broad topic, big feelings are just that, feelings that are so big, they are hard to feel, hard to control, especially for sensitive dogs. They can be good, bad or somewhere in between, but for better or worse, they exist and they can be quite the rollercoaster.  

To better understand how to help our dogs when they experience Big Feelings, let's break it down.

What Do “Big Feelings” Mean in Dogs?

We touched on this in the intro, but Big Feelings are loud, sometimes explosive emotional responses to overwhelming stimulation or situations. These can encapsulate feelings from joy through to fear. Consider some examples with me.

• The dog who just can't stop wiggling when they see you, the dog who is so thrilled you're home they have to grab a toy. Those are dogs with excited big feelings. (Possibly with some conflicting emotions, but that depends on the individual dog and context.) 
• The dog who jumps up at you and mouths when you try to redirect them from sniffing something dangerous, the dog who grabs the leash at the smallest inconvenience... guess what, that's frustrated big feelings.
• The dog who cowers at every loud noise, who will belly crawl along the floor to you. Those are some fearful big feelings.

And what about Zoomies? Well, Zoomies can be positive or negative, again this depends on the context and the dog. In short, big feelings are feelings so overwhelming that the dog needs an outlet to vent them. In fact, I would guarantee that you have experienced big feelings. Just like us, dogs can get flooded with emotions. The difference is that they don’t have words to express them — they have behaviours. Those behaviours can appear as undesirable to us humans who have spent years being told that good dogs are quiet, unassuming and obedient. 

Those behaviours can be things like barking, lunging, hiding, spinning, freezing, pulling away and even mouthing or biting. I'm here to tell you that those behaviours aren't bad. Let's look at why. 

Why Big Feelings Aren’t “Bad Behaviour”

It may come as a surprise to learn that Dogs don’t have a moral compass. Afterall don't they seem to know when they've misbehaved? Don't they seem to purposefully disobey a request? And sometimes, don't they seem to know what the best course of action is? But here is the thing, when a dog displays loud behaviours due to big feelings — they’re not naughty, they’re struggling.

Yes, you heard me. Behaviours we find inconvenient are often coping strategies. Let's frame it another way... have you ever had a panic attack? If so, did you react rationally? Of course not. A panic attack is an uncontrollable event, a response to extreme stress. In fact, panic attacks hit you like a storm surge. You can experience intense fear, or discomfort that climbs up to a terrifying peak of distress. 

These attacks are often accompanied by a range of physical and psychological symptoms including palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, and numbness. What's more, in some cases, panic attacks can be bad enough to experience a fear of losing control or even dying. In a panic attack, nothing matters except what you are feeling, and if you're fortunate to have a good support system, you have people to guide you through it. To ground you. To help you get out of survival mode. 

So what about our dogs? Our dogs can't tell us what they are feeling, they can only express it in the natural ways they know how. The desire to be close to you turns into them bouncing all over you or knocking you over. The desire for space turns into barking and lunging. Dogs aren't robots, they are sentient beings, like us. They deserve patience, guidance and love. 

When dogs are consistently struggling with these emotions and guardians are concerned about their behaviour, they often consult a trainer to stop the behaviours. However, stopping the behaviour isn't what is needed, in fact, the use of forceful methods or tools to stop "problematic behaviours" can suppress emotions, leading dogs to close off, to resist expressing themselves due to fear. This leads to a storm brewing inside them until one day, something small can make them snap. 

So if stopping the behaviour isn't the solution, what is? Personally, I see such behaviours as signals, communication. Calling for understanding, craving Safety, Empathy, and Regulation — not punishment.

Understanding Sensitivity and Triggers

Due to factors like genetics and breed traits, some dogs can be predisposed to sensitivity to triggers, leading to emotional overload. I often see herding breeds especially struggling with reactivity due to a high drive for work, yet not living in a suitable environment. They also tend to be more sensitive to sounds and reach a stress limit faster. 

It isn't just herding breeds though, any breed of dog can be considered reactive or sensitive. In many cases pain and physical or psychological trauma can contribute to sensitivity, leading to what many know today as reactivity. In other cases, it can be due to poor socialization, overstimulation, or lack of outlets and thorough decompression.

When dogs are struggling with reactivity, I don't like to label them as "Reactive" although that is the widely accepted term. Yet, there is so much more to them. Reactivity focuses on the result, on what the consequences are, on what the dog is doing rather than focusing on what is happening to elicit that response. In short, "Sensitivity" focuses on the why behind the behaviour. Knowing the why can help us support our dogs in a better way. 

Reactivity also doesn't have to be negative, reacting to something simply means to respond, to change in response to a stimulus.

Sensitive dogs feel deeply. Triggers are a huge deal, think of a trigger as something that pushes an emotional button — a bit like how we might flinch at a sudden noise, or tense up when reminded of a bad memory. Trauma survivors experience this a lot, a negative response to something that triggers a memory of previous abuse, trauma or unwanted/stressful situation. 

For dogs, triggers can be anything—people, other dogs, noises, even something as seemingly unimportant or as small as a leaf—these reactions happen quickly and automatically. Their bodies react before they know it, their brains go straight into “survival mode,” and they need time, space, and support to feel safe again. So how can we help them feel safe again?

How to Support Dogs with Big Feelings

Let's talk about decompression. The process of experiencing decompression is the act or process of relieving or reducing pressure.

Triggers and Decompression are often explained with this situation:

Imagine your dog’s emotional state as a candle.

Trigger: Lights the Candle. Every time your dog experiences something overwhelming—a loud noise, a stressful encounter, or even a memory—it’s like someone lighting a candle. The flame represents their big feelings, growing brighter and hotter the longer it burns unchecked. 

When triggers are experienced consistently in a short period of time, it leads to an overwhelming emotional state that can push the dog past its coping threshold. This is commonly referred to as Trigger Stacking. Each individual trigger may be manageable on its own, but when they occur in succession without adequate recovery time, the stress levels build up, create pressure and this results in heightened anxiety, fear and it spills out into unwanted behaviours.

Now, here is the important part for managing and coping with Triggers and Big Feelings, Decompression. 

Decompression: Carefully Putting Out the Candle. If we ignore the flame,  or delay putting it out, it grows. Just as candles shouldn't be left burning in real life, if we don't address the emotions that are bottling up, we end up with fire that’s hard to manage, sometimes impossible to put out. If we extinguish as many of those candles as possible before they erupt, we can help our dogs experience peace, safety and help them build resilience and help them cultivate the ability to recover.

So, Decompression is the intentional support we give. What can we give or do for our dogs to encourage Decompression?

• Providing a Safe Space where they can rest
• Creating wind down or calming routines (settling, petting time, grooming time)
• Providing Enrichment (Snuffle mats, Treat Puzzles, Chews, Games designed for their breed or specifically for sniffing)

Allowing our dogs to sniff actively helps them to process their emotions, in addition, ensuring they get restful sleep (adult dogs require anything from 12 - 16 hours per day) can help them to function and builds resilience and confidence. 

If we are empathetic in our handling of our dogs, we actively help and support them. By helping your dog release their big feelings safely, we carefully extinguish the flames before they flare into a “fire.” We help them process their emotions, and gain experience in recovery. We set them up for Success.

A Note on My S.E.R.E.N.E.™ Philosophy & Framework

My S.E.R.E.N.E.™ Framework is like embroidery threads. Each thread alone is important and useful, but when woven together, they create a beautiful tapestry of success. A tapestry that not only helps dogs overcome their fears but also guides guardians to truly understand their dogs’ needs — fostering teamwork, harmony, and a deeper bond. ((Or — here’s my shameless little plug — helping them thrive with - Ultimutt Serenity) 

S.E.R.E.N.E.™ stands for:

S – Safety.
E – Empathy.
R – Regulation.
E – Exploration.
N – Nurture.
E – Empowerment.

This is my personally designed framework that I use in all of my customized training programs. Each program is tailored to the unique needs of the dogs I work with, helping them move at their own pace while making meaningful progress. Most importantly, it preserves their emotional health and wellbeing — setting them and their Guardians up for true, lasting success on their training journey.

Recommendations and Support Options

As mentioned, one of the best ways to support our dogs with big feelings is to give them gentle opportunities to decompress. 

Calming Routines: By creating predictable, soothing routines, you can help your dog’s nervous system reset. Some favourites of mine include:

Sniffari's!: Grabbing a longline, going to a peaceful, quiet place and letting you and your dog slow down together allows your dog to explore with their nose. Sniffari's are deeply relaxing, they are proven to lower stress and stimulate your dog's brain in a positive way.

Slow music, white noise or Dog TV: Certain melodies can calm sensitive dogs. You can try classical, soft instrumental, or tracks specifically designed for canine relaxation. You can even find special channels on Youtube that play music or TV for dogs. 

Cozy recovery spaces: A quiet, safe spot with a bed, blanket, and a favorite toy gives your dog a place to decompress after a stressful experience. Ideally this spot is going to be somewhere that they can have some space, while not being isolated, as well as being inviting enough to encourage restful sleep.

Even small, calm routines can make a big difference over time in helping a dog regulate their emotions.

Enrichment and Scentwork is another fantastic way to help your dog to decompress. A lot of Enrichment is also brilliant for burning excess energy and filling your dog's cup. Engaging their brain helps them develop problem solving skills and encourages agency. Agency and choice can encourage your dog to make good choices and become more confidence when faced with unexpected scary things. Some good enrichment options are:

Scent games: Hide treats around the house or yard and let your dog search for them. Or teach them to find a specific scent or item.

Puzzle toys or treat dispensers: Give them a challenge that rewards focus and problem-solving, as well as encouraging them to use their nose.

Interactive play: Games like fetch, tug or supervised play helps burn off nervous energy while keeping things fun. Movement is so important for sensitive dogs. (Be sure to exercise caution when playing with your dog so as to avoid injury or scaring them.)

The key is letting your dog succeed at their own pace, with no pressure, just fun and mental stimulation.

Another favourite of mine is Flower Essences. I am a huge fan of Blackwing Farms Flower Essences. Meg Harrison, founder and owner of Blackwing Farms has created a wide range of products to help with the mental, physical, and emotional needs of animals. 24 species and counting!

You can give these to your dog before predictable stressors (like vet visits or fireworks) or after a challenging situation to help them settle more quickly. These essences are gentle, plant-based remedies that help dogs (and more!) decompress and manage emotional stress. I have used these with Chise and with many of my clients to help support them with problems and fears they face. My clients benefit from these time and time again, proving that support with kindness is always more powerful than using force. 

Ruby & my Blackwing Farm Collection

You can visit and shop Blackwing Farms here. (Affiliate disclosure: This is an affiliate link — I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I personally use and trust.)

It's also so important to discuss the importance of Force-Free Training and Consent-Based Handling, also known as Cooperative Care. 

Force Free training is using positive reinforcement techniques to encourage desired behaviours rather than punishing unwanted ones. proven to helping dogs learn and grow, and it produces long lasting, positive behavioural benefits. All without fear or coercion! Using a kind approach supports their emotional health and strengthens trust.

Cooperative Care is setting up predictable stations and allowing your dog to opt-in to exercises or touch, respecting their comfort levels. This can make grooming and medical care enjoyable and safe. It's actually used in Zoo's and Conservation Centers and is wildly successful! 

When dogs feel safe, they can learn. Hand in Hand with decompression, if you use small, achievable steps and finish training sessions on "Wins", you can build your dogs confidence and help them feel safe and empowered. This approach has been proven to reduce reactivity over time.

By combining these strategies, you can equip your dog to process their emotions safely and build resilience, all while strengthening your bond!

A Closing Note: Your Dog’s Feelings Matter — and So Do Yours

Being a Guardian and caregiver for sensitive dogs is incredibly rewarding, but it can be hard, traumatic and painful. Dealing with their big feelings can be so draining and emotional for us too. Remember to breathe, to be kind to yourself. Make sure you take breaks, and don't discount the small wins... Celebrate them! They are still victories, no matter how small. 

I've been where you are, several times, I know your struggle, and I know your successes. You are doing wonderfully, and you and your dog have got this. 

If you’d like to show a little support and love and keep the treat jar full, you can “buy me some dog treats” here, or donate via PayPal here. Your kindness helps me keep writing and sharing calm, compassionate resources for dogs and their humans.

Rebekah Osborne is a certified force-free dog trainer and behaviour consultant based in Canada. She specializes in supporting sensitive, anxious, and traumatised dogs through her holistic S.E.R.E.N.E.™ framework — helping guardians build lasting connection through compassion, not coercion.

Mindful Walks With Your Dog

We've all been there, lousy morning with miserable weather, your dog bouncing all over your bed. Or maybe a long, busy, bad day at work, and the last thing you want to do is walk your dog. Especially when they insist on smelling every. single. blade. of. grass. And what about if you have a reactive dog? Waiting to take them out when the street is quietest, but mistiming it by a few minutes and paying the price? Ugh. Talk about being at your wits end.

Let's face it, we are all human, some days are just bad, and we have to summon all of our strength to help us take that plunge. Maybe you're even like me and you battle with chronic pain and illness. 

So, the big question is how can we make walks easier, and dare I say it - enjoyable?

Put yourself in your dogs paws

You've probably heard all this before, things like: "Your dog looks forward to their walk all day", "They don't care what weather it is" "You shouldn't have gotten a dog if you can't walk it" etc etc. Now, those statements aren't necessarily wrong, but they may be a little, shall we say, aggressive. 

Let's look at this from a neutral viewpoint.

First off, yes, walking is a need for your dog. It's actually a critical need. All dogs need walks, whether they live outdoors, whether they are tiny and prefer being carried, whether they are giants and energetic, and even if they are disabled. 

Not only that, Walks also offer valuable enrichment and stimulation. Being out in the world, experiencing different smells, sights and sounds can be wonderful for your dog. Not just from a socialization standpoint, but also just for their experience. Dogs are natural scavengers and explorers, so walks help them to explore the world with you in a safe way. 

The key thing to remember though, is that dogs are individual. They each have their own physical limitations and requirements. For example, a dog bred for stamina and endurance such as a Collie or a Malinois will love a long hike or an energetic romp. Whereas a small, old Shih Tzu or Yorkie may struggle to walk to a lamppost and back. So what can be done?

Consider your dogs needs. Let's take into account what they are bred to do, their breed traits and their individual personality. For instance, that Collie or Mali we mentioned? Well, they are bred to work. They are strong, fast and have boundless energy. They need extreme physical outlets so that they can meet those physical exercise requirements. If you can't manage to give them that, then you may need to consider another dog that is better suited to your lifestyle. Enrichment is fantastic, but it doesn't replace physical exercise. 

However, when those same dog breeds struggle with reactivity, anxiety, depression and even physical pain, you have to take those factors into account. You may need to focus on decompression first, treatment plans, or a heavier focus on taking them to quieter places (like sniffspots), walking them in a more controlled setting, early in the morning or late at night before you can build them up to adventures elsewhere. 

In the same vein, what little Shih Tzu or the yorkie? The small, frail, elderly dog who loves their walks, but can barely make it to the lamppost? Walks are still needed for them, but not at the expense of their health and comfort. For dogs like this, carrying or even strollers are perfect, - they offer a wonderful way to still get out to see the world, to smell all the smells, with the benefit of resting their aching legs and joints from all those years of running. 

Mental and Emotional Needs

You may be surprised to hear that there are many times I don't recommend daily walks for dogs. In fact, with some clients, I have recommended a break from them. Why?

Well, simply put, walks can be damaging for some dogs. Some physical ailments can make walks painful. But the more common thing I see is dogs with emotional and behavioural issues who find walks way too much to handle. For traumatised dogs, leaving the front door can be world shattering. Even the smallest sounds are too loud. The smallest movements too fast. The slightest smells too overwhelming. For dogs like that, patience is needed. Building up their confidence first in a safe space - like home - is going to be far more healing then trying to drag them down the street. After all, confidence grows in safety, not in exposure.

Working along with our individual dog makes us a team. A team works together, and once that team is in sync, they are unstoppable. A bond is formed that is not easily broken, and when that unshakeable trust is achieved, joy can be found.

Making Walks Mindful—and Enjoyable

Once we understand our dogs’ needs, we can shift our focus from just getting the walk done to truly enjoying it, together. Mindful walking isn’t about speed or distance, it’s about presence. For you and your dog, this can turn what was previously thought of as a chore into a peaceful experience. It can become something valuable and something you look forward to daily.

Check in with your body
Your comfort matters just as much as your dog’s. 

Wearing clothes that are suitable for the weather and ensuring you have supportive shoes can go a long way in helping you feel prepared. Using a leash that is comfortable for you to handle can also help. Before you leave the house, take a deep breath, mentally prepare yourself and pace yourself. If you’re dealing with pain or fatigue, consider splitting the walk into shorter sessions, using a stroller, or alternating walking and gentle play in a contained space. You can even get a friend or family member to come with you. You can also ask them to walk your dog or hire a walker for times when you need to rest and recover.

Check your Dog

We've just looked at comfort for you, but what about your dog? Do they pull? What do you walk them on? 

Sometimes, pulling can be because of uncomfortable equipment, using a harness that supports movement coupled with loose leash training can help dogs feel comfortable and help them slow down. Using a rain or winter coat, and even boots can help keep your dog comfortable if the weather is bad. Taking some treats with you too doesn't hurt, snacks make everything better!

Slow down and observe
It can be tempting to view a walk as a time to exercise. To reach your step count or cardio goal, but that isn't enjoyable for your dog - at least not all the time. 

Letting your dog explore at their own pace and really take in their environment gives them a chance to decompress, and time for you to do the same. When they stop to sniff, take a look around, roll your shoulders, shake off that tension. It can also be a good time to observe your dog, are they holding any tension? Are they happy? Could they be in any discomfort? Notice the small details—the way they sniff a new patch of grass, the tilt of their head at a passing bird, the wind ruffling their fur. Take a deep breath, and let yourself notice the sensations around you. This isn’t wasted time, it’s connection.

Pick the right environment
Walking in the wrong environment for you and your dog can be detrimental.

If your dog is anxious, sensitive or reactive, choose quiet streets, earlier or later times, sniffspots or parks at off-peak hours. Even a walk in your backyard for sensitive dogs is a start. For high-energy dogs, safe open spaces where they can move freely may be ideal. Maybe walking on a trail rather than a street would work better for you. Just be sure to be wildlife conscious and safe. You don’t have to walk far to provide value, quality over quantity matters. Personalize your walk for you and your dog.

Engage all the senses
Mindful walking is about noticing sounds, smells, and textures. 

Maybe you enjoy listening to music or a podcast, sometimes though these can take us out of the moment. Taking off the headphones can really open up our senses and slow us down. Encouraging your dog to sniff and explore safely can urge you to do the same. Listen to the breeze through the trees and the birds singing. Smell the damp earth after rain, feel the crunch of leaves underfoot. Look at the colours and marvel at the nature around you. Let the simple act of walking become a sensory break and bonding exercise for both of you.

Build a habit
Even on tough days, having a consistent, low-pressure routine helps both of you. 

Getting your dog to engage in some nose games before a walk can help get you both in a calmer mindset. Getting your equipment ready can feel like readying your armor for battle. A mindful walk in the morning or evening (or both) even if brief can help regulate emotions. It can calm anxiety, and deepen your bond. Coming home together can also be a cozy experience. Coming home from the cold and giving your dog a toy, chew or treat and making yourself a warm drink can be the perfect way to unwind.

Celebrate small wins
A successful walk doesn’t have to mean marathons. 

Maybe your reactive dog passed by a trigger without losing it. Maybe your dog recovering from surgery managed to walk a bit further. Maybe your dog that ignores treats finally took one. Maybe you actually had a walk you enjoyed, without feeling rushed. Even the smallest wins can snowball into big victories over time.

A closing note

By approaching walks mindfully, you’re not just fulfilling a physical need. You’re creating a shared experience with your dog. You are learning more about them and about yourself. In a world that rushes us and is extremely time based, taking a small daily pause with your dog can be so beneficial. It's time that restores, grounds, and connects. Even on difficult days, this shift in perspective can make walking your dog feel less like a task and more like peace for both of you.

Thanks for reading! If you'd like to read about more personalized ways to mindfully walk your dog, you can download your free "Mindful Walking With Your Dog" guide here.

If you’d like to show a little support and love and keep the treat jar full, you can “buy me some dog treats” here, or donate via PayPal here. Your kindness helps me keep writing and sharing calm, compassionate resources for dogs and their humans.

Rebekah Osborne is a certified force-free dog trainer and behaviour consultant based in Canada. She specializes in supporting sensitive, anxious, and traumatised dogs through her holistic S.E.R.E.N.E.™ framework — helping guardians build lasting connection through compassion, not coercion.

Cues vs Commands - And why I'm going to use "Signal"

 

Cues, Commands, what’s best?

Dog training has come a long way in recent years, but I will be honest, I have never used the word “command” when training dogs. Upon moving to Canada, I started to hear this word a lot. Let’s look at why I choose alternate words like Signal or Cue rather than using Command in reference to what behaviours a dog knows (or is being taught) when asked.

I recently made a post on this and it was met with some mixed reactions. But let me explain my thinking here, first, let’s look at the definitions of each word. To start with, lets cover “Command”.

What does Command mean?

The definition of Command can be found below.

com·mand /kəˈmand – verb

1.  give an authoritative order.
2. dominate (a strategic position) from a superior height.
   “the two castles commanded the harbor”

Noun
an authoritative order.
“it’s unlikely they’ll obey your commands”

So we have authoritative orders, domination and commands. I’m not sure about you but when I think of these words I think of someone imposing, who is rigid, strict and expects respect, often these types of people are very entitled and expect everyone to bend to their whim. Some, not all, will use fear or pain to motivate who they command. It conjures up a picture of war, or of an unwavering ruler. Unfortunately, a lot of trainers or guardians who use the word Command expect their dog to listen and obey them without question, even if you don’t use fear or force with your dog, you may still say “Command.”

“What’s the problem with that?” I hear you ask. “I’m not using aversive techniques or tools, and I am used to saying command.” Well, let’s look at why using command in reference to our dogs can be harmful.

Sticks and stones may break my bones…

….But words will never hurt me. Oh how… untrue that phrase is. This phrase was often used in our childhood and even is still used now for when we want to mask our pain to others. We use it to try and deflect what hurtful things had been said, but wouldn’t you agree that most physical injuries we have sustained, – unless severe – we can’t recall?

Now, do you remember most of the insults you have received during your life? I know I do. Words can have a deep, hurtful, psychological affect on us.  Just as words can upbuild us or tear us down, our choice of words when dealing with others can often influence how we view them and how we act.

This happens far more than we realise. Positive thoughts or speech about ourselves and others has been shown to foster a more optimistic outlook, this in turn can alter our brain chemistry to change its makeup. Our thoughts become our words and our actions, so even just using “command” can alter our perception of our animals, encouraging our brains to view them as less, or something lower than us that has to listen to our every whim. Even if we don’t realise it, this happens. So much so that there are psychological studies on this, and it is an established fact.

Making small changes to our language and words can help us view our dogs as the sentient, amazing beings that they are. Worthy of our respect, not the other way around. Let’s continue with our definitions, next up is “Cue.”

What does Cue mean?

noun

1. a signal (such as a word, phrase, or bit of stage business) to a performer to begin a specific speech or action.
   That last line is your cue to exit the stage.

2. something serving a comparable purpose : hint
I’ll take that yawn as my cue to leave.

a feature indicating the nature of something perceived

The expressions on people’s faces give us visual cues about their feelings.

3. archaic : the part one has to perform in or as if in a play.

Another meaning:

to give a cue to : prompt – cued the band to begin

to insert into a continuous performance –

Following this definition, what comes to your mind? Perhaps like me, you think of an actor or an entertainer waiting for their stage cue. Some people commented that this can conjure up an image of an entertainer who is willing to perform for us. But I have to disagree with this line of thought. Entertainers have willing entered into that contract, they also have the power to not perform if they wish. Dogs on the other hand usually don’t get as free a pass with that. If they don’t want to perform, they are labelled as stubborn or ignorant, rather than us not being clear or us asking too much of them.

Yes, using cue can prompt our dogs to perform a certain behaviour we ask of them, but it can also subconsciously affect our view of them. Using cue can bleed into us viewing our dogs as willing entertainers, but they are not. If anything, they are learners in this relationship with us. We shouldn’t really be taking the position of stage director and entertainer who listens to our cues. Not to mention, dogs with severe behavioural issues do not feel safe enough to perform cues we ask of them. Time needs to be spent with them, learning what they need, reading their signals, body language and communication in order to help them feel safe. To help them get to a place where they do want to engage with us, not as a performer, but as a companion.

Now, please don’t get me wrong, Cue is a preferable word to Command, because as we have established, words matter. If they didn’t, there would be no need to use Cue instead of Command.

As I mentioned earlier, some dogs do not feel safe enough to enter into a “entertainer” type relationship with us. Sure, some dogs enjoy tricks and performing behaviours, but it is unfair of us to use this to paint all dogs with this brush so to speak. Dogs are incredible, emotionally intelligent creatures who teach us more than we teach them. They aren’t robots, and while they do bring us endless joy, they are not here to entertain us or to obey our every whim.

But let’s look at our final word here, and why I am choosing to move away from using Cue, to use “Signal” instead.

What does Signal mean?

signal – /sĭg′nəl/

noun

1. An indicator, such as a gesture or colored light, that serves as a means of communication.
2. A message communicated by such means.
3. Something that incites action.
   – the peace treaty was the signal for celebration.

So, Signal is a pre-arranged form of communication between the parties concerned. This can be verbal signals, falling in that line of communication. It can also cover visual signs for deaf dogs, and even touch/verbal signals for blind dogs.

The main argument I have met with using Signal is “it’s too broad.” Well, in a way, isn’t that the point? Yes a lot of people interpret Signals as smoke signals, or visual signals. The point was also raised that using Signal instead of Cue is irrelevant and Cue is better because we can liken it to Hunger being a cue to eat, or thirst being a cue to drink. But, those feelings come about from the brain sending Signals, not cues. Signal is the scientific term for it. Do you know what those signals are also referred to as being? They are referred to as a cooperative action. This is a more collaborative term that helps us view our dogs on more equal footing. Viewing them as beings that we want to communicate with, as well as them communicating with us.

Maybe its because I come from a background of Sign Language, but I have never heard of Signal being used solely in dog training when referring to visual signs. We always called visual movements signs, or gestures, which both fall under the definition of Signal, which in turn is communication.

A signal, much like cue does give the dog a choice on whether to act to our request, but I find that Signal does this without conjuring up the performer aspect.

I don’t want my dog or my clients dogs to entertain me, I want to communicate with them. I want to help them feel safe, I want to send signals to them, and I want to receive signals from them. Training should be an equal exchange of communication, it shouldn’t be made up of demands. Learning can only take place when the learner/dog agrees to it and can handle the exchange of information. This is one reason why using games to train our dogs can be so effective.

Signal is a broader term, but Signals are predecided by the parties involved. That decided signal, means that outcome. That’s what training is like, we decide a Signal, for example “Down.” We teach our dog that we want them to lie down when we send that verbal signal. That expected outcome is the same as being “cued” to lie down, but the difference is we are viewing our dogs as an individual, capable of free will.

True respect is having a bond with your dog that is built on trust. Not prompts, demands or coercion.

People may have taken this as alienating, or thought that I am insisting that people use the word Signal. That was never and still is not my intention. The purpose of my social media post and of this blog is to look into each meaning, and discuss why I personally feel like its time for me to move away from Cue.

I prefer Signal now, to me it is even kinder than Cue, it really gives the dog a clear signal to respond to. It grants them autonomy and like I mentioned earlier, it is inclusive of dogs with disabilities, as well as helping dogs with severe behaviour issues feel safe, rather than us constantly prompting them to perform a behaviour.

If you still want to use Cue, go ahead! I am a force free trainer, and I am not forcing you to change the words you use. I am just stating my personal opinion, I feel that using Signal will help me to be a better trainer. That is what I am constantly working towards, to keep learning and to keep improving.

A little while ago, I posted a short series about positive reinforcement and ethics in dog training. I feel that series links very closely to this.

Rules that we abide by in training are as follows:

• The dog/learner must be comfortable
• The dog/learner must be allowed to learn at their own pace
• The dog/learner must be stimulated positively to learn

And what of Canine Ethics? They are as follows:

• Freedom to be themselves
• Agency over their lives and bodies
• Freedom from pain, threats and fear
• Freedom to practice natural behaviour
• Respect for the individual they are

Positive Training should involve kind thoughts and actions, patience. It should also be very dependent on the learner being receptive. Engaging in this way with our dogs and being kind begins with our thoughts and words.

When ‘cues’ where first introduced to dog training rather than ‘command’, it was met with hostility. People don’t like change, but without change, we can’t progress. People also said that Cue and Signal are interchangeable, I personally disagree, yes they have similar meanings, but they are still different words with their own definitions and their own perceptions.

A car signalling to turn may not physically affect us, but it is a clear signal of intention. We understand the consequence of that car doing that. Just as we may signal in our own car to let others know what we are doing, and how they can respond to that (Like braking, if they or we don’t slow down, we’ll crash into them).

A signal is a clear communication of a predetermined action. We have to teach and be taught that action, then associate it with that signal. That’s what training is, we teach our dogs and we are taught by them. If I have taught my dog recall, and signal to my dog that I would like them to come to me and they do, that is successful communication, just like that car ahead of me signaling to turn and slowing down, I would respond to that to keep myself, and others safe.

As I said earlier, please don’t view this as me telling you what to do, we all have free will after all, and if you were personally offended by this, then I am sorry. The purpose of this article and my post was to look at definitions, see how our words can affect our interactions with others, and to state why I personally came to the conclusion that I would like to use Signal from now on rather than Cue.

In conclusion, thank you for reading this article if you got this far, it is appreciated!

At the end of the day, if we ensure we are being kind and looking for consent in our dogs when we work with them, we’re communicating clearly and giving them the choices and respect that they deserve.

 Carefully researched and written by: Becky Osborne

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