A five-second test tells you whether your dog actually wants that cuddle. Pet your dog for about three seconds, then stop and take your hands away. Watch what they do. Lean back in, nudge your hand, shuffle closer? They’re asking… Show more
A five-second test tells you whether your dog actually wants that cuddle.
Pet your dog for about three seconds, then stop and take your hands away. Watch what they do. Lean back in, nudge your hand, shuffle closer? They’re asking for more, so carry on. Move off, look away, go still? They’ve told you they’re done, and the kind thing is to listen.
This matters more than it sounds. When you give your dog a say over being touched, they learn that being near you is safe and predictable. That trust is the foundation of the whole relationship, and it’s the thread running through The Invisible Lead: connection comes before control.
Try it today with your own dog and see what they tell you.
👉 Want access to more training tips and other online resources? They’re all waiting in my Online Learning Hub: https://mindfulness4dogs.com/online-learning-hub
