If your dog suffers from anxiety or nervousness, a simple technique recommended by dog trainers could help calm their nerves and improve their behavior. According to Terry Cuyler, a dog trainer at Pawsitive Results, reading aloud to your dog can significantly impact their mental well-being and promote relaxation.
A growing number of dog trainers and animal welfare organizations are endorsing the practice of reading to pets, which has proven to provide a calming effect. A video from Dogs Trust, a UK-based charity, showcased volunteers reading to shelter dogs, with many of the animals appearing to fall asleep, completely relaxed by the soothing human voice.
On International Read to Me Day (March 19th), Terry Cuyler explained the benefits of this calming technique. Speaking with veterinary experts at YuMove, Cuyler highlighted how reading to dogs helps them feel more secure, providing both a sense of routine and an opportunity for owners to bond with their pets.
“When you read to a dog in a calm, soothing voice, the dog picks up on your tone,” Cuyler said. “Dogs are excellent at reading our emotions, and a gentle voice helps signal that it’s time to relax.”
Dogs, on average, can understand between 15 and 89 words, so Cuyler recommends selecting simple books with clear, distinct words—preferably ones that resemble those used for young children. These types of books are more easily understood by dogs and offer a sense of predictability that further aids in calming anxious pets.
Establishing a reading routine can also help alleviate your dog’s anxiety. Having a regular time each day when you read to them creates a sense of stability, making it easier for dogs to feel safe and relaxed.
Cuyler, who has years of experience training dogs, has found that reading, combined with positive reinforcement, is a highly effective method for improving a dog’s behavior, especially for those who are more energetic or nervous. The technique fosters trust and can help reduce unwanted behaviors by promoting calmness and good manners.
In conclusion, reading to your dog not only enhances the emotional bond between you and your pet but also serves as a powerful tool for easing anxiety and supporting better behavior.