Doggie communication

18-month old Zoe is a beautiful Dalmatian you will see in the Little Valley Animal Shelter, Exeter, Devon, England.  Because she was born deaf, her owner, not able to bond with her, gave her up.

We usually teach a dog a series of word commands like Stay, Sit and Fetch to make him obey. But what if a dog cannot hear?  Does not training him/her become difficult?  Well this brave and spirited dog is different.

According to reports, at this animal shelter, this spotted dog has been trained by animal behavior expert, Gill Hodge.  Zoe can recognize seven hand commands.  The animal can reportedly kiss, be a “good girl”, jump, sit, stay, lie down and paw.    Now this special dog is waiting for her new owner, who will be taught these signs so as to “talk” to Zoe effectively. 

Says Gill Hodge “Dogs naturally use their own form of sign language such as tail wagging when they are happy or raising their hackles when they feel thretened.”

That is so true.  Certain characteristic poses and movements can tell you what your dog is feeling. 

• Erect tail, stiff body ears standing up, and eyes bright and widely opened - alert
• Body and tail stiff, mouth drawn back to expose most teeth, a menacing growl, sometimes whites of eyes seen - aggressive (about to attack)
• Wagging, panting, forelegs poised as if the dog is about to spring, bright eyes, may indulge in licking your hands or face - happy to see you
• Intense wagging and panting, barking, slight sounds of whining, running from one corner to another, forelegs poised as if about to spring - happy and excited (Is he seeing you after a week?)
• Horizontal position, with hind legs lifted, exposing the abdominal area, chest and neck, eyes half closed - pliant
• Crouching, tail tucked between hind legs, ears flat or bent backwards - frightened
• Mouth open, tongue may hang out, forehead un-wrinkled, tail held up, or a slight wag, sitting or standing - calm.