Norwegian dog trainer and behaviorist Turid Rugaas is a noted expert on canine body language, notably “calming signals,” which are signals dogs use to avoid conflict, invite play, and communicate a wide range of information to other dogs and people. These are the dogs’ attempt to defuse situations that otherwise might result in fights or aggression.
Companion DVD, 'Calming Signals: What Your Dog Tells You,' DTB788, is also available. The DVD shows footage of many calming signals, how dogs use them, and how you can use them to calm your dog.
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What reviewers are saying...
DOGWORLD
This little book by Norwegian trainer and behaviorist Turid Rugaas provides a dog-to-human dictionary of canine body language. Through years of observation, Rugaas has identified gestures and movements that dogs use to signal to other dogs-- and humans –that they have peaceful intentions. They also use calming signals when they are stressed. These signals include yawning, sniffing the ground, licking the nose, and looking away, to name a few… In perhaps the biggest improvement in the second edition, the calming signals are now presented in full-color photographs, rather than the somewhat crude line drawings that illustrated the first. If you have read the first edition, consider buying and reading the second: Unless you’re an expert on calming signals, the photographs and new text will surely be illuminating.
MIDWEST BOOK REVIEW
On Talking Terms With Dogs: Calming Signals by international dog trainer and behaviorist Turid Rugaas is a truly "user-friendly" guide to understanding and communicating with your dog. Introducing its readers to many conceptual tactics and subtle tendencies which might imply the dog's desires, On Talking Terms With Dogs is an invaluable reference for dog owners who truly wish to help their friend to an ultimate happiness. On Talking Terms With Dogs is very strongly recommended to all dog owners, especially those highly devoted and owners of multiple canine companions. James A. Cox
CANINE REVIEW
Some books make you think, and this little book by Rugaas does just that. It gives an interpretation of body language of dogs. More specifically, body language dogs use with each other and with us to calm down a situation. It’s an enjoyable read that can be accomplished in an hour on a Sunday morning. It helped me better understand some of the point-costing behaviors my dogs produce in the obedience ring… If you deal with dogs in stressful situations, or even just want to understand your dog’s behavior better, I think you would find this book helpful and enlightening. Marlene Parish
NORTH SHORE NEWS
When trying to communicate with someone who does not speak the same language it is natural to resort to gestures and to pay close attention to general body movements. It is the same principal that guides our understanding of basic dog language. Turid Rugaas has spent much of her life working with dogs. Through her studies and sensitive approach she has been able to achieve a rapport that is based on mutual respect. She states, “if you want your dog to respect you, you must also respect your dog.” Through this foundation, she has established a level of communication that is attainable for dog lovers everywhere. Dogs provide many signals during their interaction with each other – by paying attention to these signals and their desired effects, we can all learn to better relate to our canine friends.
