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Why Dog Training Hand Signals Are So Important

A hand signal is a visual, but silent, code that communicates your wishes to your pet dog. When you first starty teaching this way, you will combine a hand signal and a verbal command to work together and reinforce the command.

For example, when teaching your puppy to Sit, give the verbal command while your right hand makes the proper hand signal and holds the motivator. Then use the motivator reward to place your puppy in a sitting position if needed. Maintaining consistency in vocal tone and hand signal formation is critically important to the long term success of your training.

Eventually, you can stop using verbal commands and reward motivators and rely only on a hand signal. Hand signals should be formed in clear and concise movements. It may be helpful to practice in front of a mirror to get the correct hand signal down. Once you are comfortable with using hand signals, you can add your own style to customize the signals and add your own personality.

Hand signals force your puppy to concentrate and pay much more attention to you, which is important if you live in a bustling and dangerous modern city with its many distractions. Now, when you are in the park and your dog is only a short distance away, you will not have to raise your voice to compete with other noises. A mere hand signal will make your pet respond as you wish.

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