How “Touch” Works
Have you ever reached down to pet your dog while they’re bouncing around, trying to calm them—and wondered, why isn’t this working? That’s often the starting point for talking about appropriate touch in dog training.
Touch can either reinforce a behavior or inhibit it—there’s no neutral middle ground. If your dog is overly excited or misbehaving, a casual pat might just reward the chaos. On the other hand, a well-timed, firm touch can let your dog know: that’s not okay.
Why “Being Nice” Isn’t Enough
Dogs don’t seem to interpret soothing words the way we do. What matters is the clarity and energy behind your words, your body language, and (yes) your touch. When training, unless your verbal cues are followed up by consistent, meaningful action, dogs will often discount them—especially when they are excited.
So if you give your dog a command but then don’t follow through, your dog may decide those words don’t matter. You need to set yourself up so your touch and your commands stay relevant.
Reinforcing vs Inhibiting Touch
When you touch or otherwise communicate with your dog, it’s either going to encourage a behavior or suppress it. Reinforcing touch is affectionate and rewarding—but only appropriate when your dog is calm, respectful, and/or following commands. Do not reward obnoxious behavior with affection just because you feel guilty or want peace. If a dog is misbehaving and you must touch them, it should be corrective and informative—a clear signal your dog can understand. Timing is critical. Likewise, if you give affection at the wrong time, you can give your dog the wrong information amd encourage the very behavior you are trying to extinguish.
Your timing, energy, and attitude all matter. A corrective touch must be delivered at the right time with calm assertiveness—not anger or cruelty. As previously discussed. a rewarding and/or affection touch must be appropriately timed as well. Your dog will quickly begin to 'read' your voice and touch more accurately, and respond accordingly.
Consistency, Fairness & Trust
If you’re fair, consistent, and not abusive, your dog will trust you to lead. Your relationship deepens. Dogs thrive in a structured environment. As the human leader, your job is to provide that environment and show them how to fit in. Touch isn’t just about affection—it’s also about teaching, reinforcing respect, and giving your dog clear boundaries. Use it wisely, and your dog will show you unconditional love and devotion.
Who you are to your dog is EVERYTHING
Shawn Hines
~ Feb 14, 2016