Disclaimer; Mods, please don’t change my signature handle to the “Dog Whisper. I’m happy being a “tool”.
About 8 years ago my American Cocker Spaniel underwent a double inner ear operation.
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He could no longer hear but this operation improved, and possibly saved his life. I had to learn and use new commands for him. He’s adapted well…and so have I. Sign language and different personal behaviours became our method of communication.
I encounter trail dogs and dog walkers each day I ride. 99’9% of the owners have well behaved dogs

. One particular dog walker exercises 6-8 very large dogs. I see him once or twice a week and those dogs are always on a leash. When I stop to speak with him, all the dogs sit and stare at him waiting for me next command. The dogs don’t look at me or my bike. It’s amazing to see.
A trail dog “Cowboy” will find me regardless of where I am. He suddenly shows up, usually between my legs, and scares the crap out of me. He then wines and cries and looks forward to my affection and the signature “double-head-scratch”. Several minutes later the owner shows up. Cowboy is my favourite trail dog.
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Me and Cowboy.