[Dailydrool] Hounf vocabulary

[dpmcquade at verizon.net]

I think I have read, seen on TV, or whatever, that dogs can understand up to to 200 words. Anyway, it's a limited number, but not just a tiny handful.

When our Dexter went blind, I suddenly realized how many words I needed to have him understand. All of them were directions: Step up, step down, right, left, watch out, slow down, door, watch out for Holly.... You get the idea. I'd started teaching him a few before he lost his sight, but now I had to have him obeying in an instant. I was amazed at how many he picked up on immediately. I agonized over left and right; weren't these too complex for his little basset mind? No. In a short time, he was responding to a combination of the word and a gentle pull. Now he can respond without physical direction.

But I think dogs understand even more than that. Some days I have long chats with them, explaining a situation. "Today I have to take ______ to the vet, because ___________ is wrong. I will be gone for ________ hours, but I will be back. If I run into traffic, it might be longer, but don't worry." Can you tell I've had anxious dogs?

OK, maybe the hounds couldn't sent the cops out after me if I didn't return on time, but I swear they get the idea. Really, all I want is no accidents on the floor by the time I get back. And usually I don't find them.

Whenever I have information the hounds should have, I share it. Maybe they don't get it all, but I've been amazed at how much they comprehend. I think the hounds are smarter than we expect them to be.
 
Call me crazy. I may be. But the hounds love me. And I love them too.
Pam, food slave to the Dashing Bassets