The Other End of the Leash: Why We Do What We Do Around Dogs

by Patricia B. McConnell

Dogs and humans share an interpretation of high and low sounds (as do many other mammals). A low pitch signifies authority or confidence in both wolves and primates. Simply saying a signal in a lower voice than before can mean the difference between your dog’s ignoring you or obeying. Cool Hand Luke couldn’t be a better example. More than anything in life, he loves to herd sheep. When we’re done with the sheep chores, I call his name twice, “Luke, Luke,” to ask him to come away from the sheep and follow me as I leave the barn. His response is so predictable, I could bet the farm on it: If I say his name in the usual way, with a relatively high pitch, he completely ignores me. Not a head turn. Not an ear twitch. It’s as if it hadn’t happened. If I say exactly the same two words, not louder but lower, he pivots on his hindquarters and runs to my side. It’s the difference between asking and telling.