by Patricia B. McConnel, Ph.D.
The Other End of the Leash is a pearl among books on dog (and human) communication. What makes this one unique is that it ponders the differences between human and canine instinctual behaviors, and how this culture clash can complicate our dialog with dogs. We are often unaware that many things we do communicate the exact opposite of our intention.
As humans, we are so focused on verbal communication that we are often unaware of our own body language, and next to oblivious to one of our dogs. And not only that. Many items in our body language vocabulary have a very different meaning to dogs.
What is a friendly gesture to humans, can be a dominating or threatening gesture to dogs. Unless we understand and accommodate these differences, our communication with our furry friends might be full of misunderstanding and frustration.
Achieving a better understanding of our dogs is a two-step process. First, we need to learn about our own communication and then come to understand the differences in interpretation by our best friends. The Other End of the Leash is a true eye-opener. It covers all aspects of human and dog language and their similarities and dissimilarities.
I absolutely loved this book. I was amazed at the difference it made in communicating with Jasmine in a way that makes sense to her. You and your dog will both be happier as well.
Communication is a foundation of any relationship. Not speaking a common language can make it hard for both parties.
I loved this book too, and chose it as one of the two books that changed my life in a book review a little while ago. I think you hit the nail on the head when you said the book taught you to communicate with Jasmine in a way that made sense to HER. :) Enjoying your blog, I'll take a look around.
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