What Is Signalling in Dog Training and Why It Matters

If your dog seems to ignore you, it might be the way you're asking.

When we talk about dog training, most of us think about rewards, timing, and maybe even clickers. But there's something that happens before any of that. Something often overlooked but absolutely essential. Signalling. It’s the way you communicate with your dog before they even move a muscle. It's the first conversation you have, whether you're asking them to sit, stay, come back, or stop sniffing that half-eaten sausage on the pavement.

Signalling isn’t a training trend or a fancy method. It's not about dominance or control either. It’s simply the language your dog watches for every single day. And the truth is, you're already doing it. The only question is whether you're doing it clearly, or if your dog is left guessing.

Let’s break it down, simply, honestly, and in real-world terms.

What Do We Actually Mean by “Signalling”?

Signalling, in the context of dog training, refers to the cues and communication you give your dog, intentionally or not, that let them know what’s about to happen, what you expect, or what they should do. These signals can be verbal, like a word, physical, like a hand movement or body shift, or environmental, like picking up the lead or heading towards the door.

It’s not magic. It’s not mystical. It’s just the everyday stuff you say and do that your dog notices. Because dogs are extremely observant animals, they are constantly watching for patterns. They don’t just hear your words. They read your tone, your timing, your hands, your feet, your face, and your pace.

When those signals are clear, consistent, and fair, training becomes a whole lot easier.

Why It Matters More Than You Think

Most training struggles come down to confusion, not defiance. When a dog doesn't do what you've asked, it’s rarely because they’re being "bold" or "stubborn." More often than not, they simply didn’t understand what you were asking in the first place.

Signalling is the part of communication that makes your intention clear before the action even starts. It sets the stage. It gives your dog the information they need to make a good decision.

If you change how you ask each time, move differently, speak differently, or ask too quickly, the signal gets lost. It’s like speaking three languages in one sentence and expecting someone to understand fluently.

But when your signals are consistent, dogs can respond with confidence. That confidence builds trust. Training becomes less about control and more about communication.

You’re Already Signalling, Even If You Don’t Realise It

Every time you reach for the treat pouch, pick up the lead, bend slightly at the waist, or even glance at your dog before speaking, you’re sending a signal. The question is, are those signals useful?

Sometimes, without meaning to, we send mixed messages. We say “stay” while leaning forward. We call our dog while walking toward them with the lead, and they know that means the fun is over. We ask them to sit, but we do it while waving a treat around at shoulder height. These things muddy the signal.

Dogs, being smart and adaptive, start guessing. Some get anxious. Others get pushy. And most simply tune out when they’ve had enough mixed messages.

Clarity Over Complexity

Clear signals don’t mean robotic signals. This isn’t about making your body language perfect or speaking in monotone. It’s about creating reliable patterns. If you say “sit” in a certain tone, while standing still, then do that the same way each time. At least while teaching it.

Think of it like giving someone directions. If you change the route every time and shout the instructions from a moving car, they won’t get far. But if you show them clearly, step by step, they’ll likely find their way with less stress.

The same goes for your dog. They don’t need flashcards or lengthy explanations. They just need consistency.

Timing Is a Part of Your Signal Too

Imagine being in a conversation where someone keeps interrupting, backtracking, or mumbling. That’s how it feels to a dog when signals are rushed or late.

Let’s say your dog sits, and then three seconds later you say “yes” and toss a treat. That’s not a clear signal. That’s an afterthought. Your dog has no idea what behaviour you liked.

Good signalling means responding in the moment. That’s when the lightbulb goes on for your dog. “Oh, that’s what they wanted.”

Equally, if you ask your dog to lie down but do it as you’re walking away, they may not connect the dots. Slowing down and being clear, even for a few seconds, can completely change the outcome.

The Power of Pre-Signals

Some signals come before you even say a word. We call these pre-signals. For example, reaching into your pocket before you ask for a sit, or walking towards the garden gate before calling your dog back. These moments matter.

Dogs are excellent at picking up on these cues. Sometimes they respond to those rather than your actual command. Which means if your pre-signal is unclear, your dog may anticipate something else.

Think about the times your dog runs to the door before you’ve said anything. That’s not mind-reading. That’s just years of picking up on your routine.

You can use this to your advantage in training, but you’ve got to be aware of it. If you always move a certain way before asking for a behaviour, make sure it’s helpful, not distracting.

Signalling Isn’t About Being Loud, It’s About Being Clear

A common mistake is thinking a dog hasn’t listened, so we say it louder. Or we repeat the cue five times. But that’s not clarity, it’s noise.

A clear signal is often quieter, slower, and simpler. If you need to raise your voice or repeat yourself, your dog might not be ignoring you. They might just be confused or overwhelmed.

Try doing less. Say less. Move less. Then notice how your dog responds. You might be surprised how effective a single word or small movement can be when it’s done well.

Real-Life Examples

1. Teaching Recall

Instead of calling your dog while walking towards them, which usually ends the fun, try turning away and crouching slightly. Say their name, then the cue. Keep it the same. Every time. That consistency becomes your signal. Over time, your dog will learn, “When they do that, I go to them, and good stuff happens.”

2. Getting a Calm Sit at the Door

Before opening the door, stop moving. Say “sit” in a calm, low tone, with your hands still. Wait. Then reward. Avoid talking too much, waving your hands, or rushing the moment. A still body says more than any word.

3. Lead Walking

Your signal for “let’s go” could be a small movement forward, paired with a cue like “with me.” But don’t mix in ten different speeds, jerky arm movements, or chatter. The cleaner your start, the clearer your dog’s path.

Be Honest About What You’re Showing

It’s easy to think we’re being clear when we’re not. The best way to check your signals? Film yourself. Watch how you move, what you say, and when you say it. It can be uncomfortable at first, but it’s eye-opening.

You might notice that your “stay” cue is always paired with a hand movement your dog actually relies on more than the word. Or that you always bend down before asking for a recall, and your dog responds more to the bend than the actual call.

This isn’t about criticising yourself. It’s about becoming a better communicator. Your dog will thank you for it. Not with words, but with better behaviour and less stress.

In a Nutshell

Dogs thrive on clarity. They don’t need perfect trainers. They need people who are consistent, calm, and aware of what they’re saying before they even speak.

Signalling isn’t something extra to learn. It’s something to notice and refine. The better your signals, the less training you’ll need to do.

Because once your dog understands what you’re asking, they’re far more likely to do it.

And if they’re not doing it? Don’t shout louder. Don’t repeat. Step back, slow down, and ask yourself:

What did I just signal?

That question might just change your whole approach.

💬 Want Personal Help with Your Dog?

Book a 15-minute virtual consultation via Microsoft Teams for just €15.

In this one-on-one session, we’ll talk through your dog’s behaviour and see if ongoing support is the right fit.  💡 If you decide to book a full session or package, your €15 fee is fully refunded.   It’s a no-pressure way to get expert advice and take the first step toward a calmer, happier dog.

Curious about what Paws Academy has to offer? Have a look at our online training hub and see what might work for you and your dog.