PLAY WITH YOUR PET: RECOGNIZING WORDS

Recognizing words with time, patience, and lots of practice, most dogs can learn to match some words to objects. See here how to start.

Name two of your pet’s favourite toys — something simple like “ball” “bear” or “baby.” Keep all other toys out of your pet’s sight to help it focus. Say the name of a toy and throw it to go after it. Do this several times, while repeating the name each time you toss it. Then do the same with the other toy.

Now put the toys on the floor, and say the name of the first toy, every time it goes for it, reward it with a prize. Repeat the procedure with the other toy. When you are sure that your dog is constantly identifying the toy by name, you can try expanding your vocabulary using additional toys or other objects.