How to "Talk" Dog: Explaining What You Want in 2 Minutes a Day

If there’s something you want—that you really, really want—from your dog, just explain it to them. You can talk dog.

While we haven’t found a magical English-to-dog translator yet, communication is entirely possible. We know how dogs learn: through precise timing and the thoughtful placement of rewards. All we have to do is break the lesson down into digestible, bite-sized chunks they can easily understand.

Meet Gina & Nubbin

Gina is an inspiring elderly woman living in a high-rise apartment near downtown. She adopted a senior Toy Poodle early this year because she refuses to live without a dog. (Honestly, we want to be Gina when we grow up!)

Nubbin, at nine years old, was surrendered to rescue by an Amish puppy mill that had no further use for her. When Gina first brought her home, Nubbin sat in a corner and shivered. She had never known anything outside a wire cage—no house, no grass, no toys, and no love. To this day, she still has a habit of gnawing on metal objects left within reach.

We met them in May and introduced them to simple micro-training games. Today, Nubbin enthusiastically greets apartment visitors, plays with her own toys, relaxes in soft beds, and claims her favorite spot on the couch right next to Gina.

Living Like a Real Dog

Because Nubbin uses potty pads, housebreaking wasn't an issue for their routine. But what Gina really, really wanted was to enjoy her neighborhood's parks, paths, and outdoor cafes alongside her companion.

Outdoors, however, Nubbin’s fear took over. She’d slam on the brakes as soon as they left the building. She was fine being carried or riding in her dog stroller, but walking on a leash? Not happening. She skittered away from unfamiliar noises and tried to hide behind Gina's legs. While Gina is active, she isn't always completely steady on her feet, making Nubbin's sudden turns a real trip hazard. Her concern was entirely justified.

Walking Through the Park One Day

Hope devised a quick, simple solution. Nubbin is smart and highly food-motivated, so we turned heel-positioning into a rewarding game.

Gina’s assignment for the week: deliver delicious treats strictly from her left hand, at her left side at Nubbin nose level..

Within just a few minutes, Nubbin caught on. Soon, she was happily strolling around a local park, actively seeking out Gina’s left side for her reward. While they aren't setting speed records and the behavior is still in progress, the foundation is set. They’ll keep practicing in short, fun bursts until Nubbin feels completely confident.

In the end, both of them get what they really, really want—a safe, happy walk together. Gina is now talking dog - a language that Nubbin understands.

Got a small dog who needs a boost of confidence on walks? Start with short, reward-focused micro-sessions! Check out our Training Hub on GollyGear.com for more quick games you can play in two minutes or less.