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The Secrets Of Dog Communication

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- If you've ever done it, you know training a dog requires a lot of patience. Communication is a two-way street.

Teri Ann Lapsey is a professional pet communicator. She's been "speaking" to animals all her life and says can understand an average of 60 words, but it's best to start with the basics.

"A good way to learn how to communicate with animal, get to know them physically and emotionally is to establish a baseline, learn how they say yes and no," she said.

A no could be as simple as backing away, or even shaking their head. Lapsey says "yes" responses can be obvious.

"Many dogs will look right at you and blink. And that's a very definite 'yes'. Some dogs will nod at you," she said.

What most owners really need to know is when their dog needs to go outside.

"Better to put something on the door.  Put something that will make noise, like a bell. And when they're smaller you need a designated place outside and it's a great idea to get some type of lawn ornament and make sure they know that's where they're supposed to go," said Lapsey. "When they final realize that you're listening to them, they'll try to tell you a lot."

Lapsey will be hosting a session this Saturday at Chuck and Don's Pet Food Outlet in Northeast Minneapolis from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. A 15-minute session costs $20.

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