Permission

It may seem strange to ask your dog, “Would you like a massage?”
 
Asking permission projects your intention to the dog in your hands. While your dog may not understand the words you are saying, the sounds you make, along with your breathing, heart rate, and posture, tells the dog who you are, how you are feeling, how connected and focused you are likely to be, your level of confidence, your experience, your level of comfort and safety, and your understanding of your role as leader. Permission sets the tone for the entire session.
 
Verbalize your request for permission out loud. Speaking the words helps your mind to focus. Your words hopefully will be louder than the other voices in your head that can be so distracting. (What voices? We didn’t say anything. You must be hallucinating. Oh, you like big words like that, don’t you? Wait. What’s that shiny thing over there? ) When your dog knows that you are sure you know what you want, he/she will be more willing to participate. The dog will be engaged as an active participator in the PetMassage, instead of a passive receiver.