What Is a Cue?

A cue is a signal that tells a dog which behavior we’re asking them to perform.

Most people immediately think of verbal cues such as Sit, Down, Come, or Place, but a cue doesn’t have to be a word.

It can be a hand signal, body movement, leash pressure, a sound, or even something in the environment.

Dogs Don’t Automatically Understand Our Words

Words only have meaning to dogs after we teach them what those words predict or require.

Saying “Sit” doesn’t naturally mean anything to a dog.

We create that meaning by consistently connecting the word with the behavior.

This is why repeating a cue over and over can become a problem. If we say “Sit, sit, sit, sit” before the dog finally sits, we may accidentally teach the dog that responding to the first cue isn’t necessary.

Behavior First, Cue Second

At BFF, we often prefer to help the dog understand the behavior before attaching a verbal cue to it.

For example, we may use a lure or another form of guidance to help the dog consistently perform a behavior.

Once the dog understands what we’re asking them to do, we can begin attaching the word to that behavior.

Now the verbal cue has something clear to represent.

Your Dog Is Watching More Than You Think

Dogs are extremely good at noticing patterns, which means they may respond to things we don’t even realize we’re doing.

You may think your dog sits when you say “Sit,” when they’re actually responding to the slight forward movement of your body or the movement of your hand.

That doesn’t necessarily mean anything is wrong, but it does remind us to pay attention to what information we’re actually giving the dog.

Clear Cues Create Clear Communication

The goal is for the dog to understand exactly what a cue means and what behavior produces the correct answer.

The clearer and more consistent we are when teaching and using cues, the easier it becomes for the dog to understand what we’re asking them to do.

And clear communication makes training easier on both ends of the leash.