Have you ever noticed that animals tend to do what you want when you ask them politely? We know that obedience training often stipulates maintaining an alpha dog position. This means using commands and treats. (Our dog Leaf loves treats!)
 
But oddly enough, we find on a day-to-day basis, that if we ask Leaf to do something, especially if we give him a good enough reason, he cooperates. When we TELL or command him, he seems to consider whether or not he wants to comply.
 
This afternoon, for example, Linda wanted to take a nap. Allen said, "Leaf, will you please be quiet so Linda can sleep?" Usually this high-energy boy runs from one part of the house to the other and barks at people passing by the living room window where he likes to perch.
 
But Leaf, honoring the request, was very quiet. When Linda woke up, he ran to get his squeaky toy and squeak it one time. It was as if he were saying, "See, I could have been doing this but I didn't." Good boy!
 
Has anyone else noticed a difference in an animal's response to a command and a request?