Get Fluffy or Spot to show you what he wants

Your pet is nagging you, but you don’t know what he wants.

Why not just ask? Liz Palika, author of The New Age Dog (Renaissance) says that with a small amount of training, you will be able to find the answer.

Say “Show me” to your pet, then walk toward him and keep saying “Show me.” Stop at various places, like the leash, the water dish, or the food bowl. When you find the right place, the dog will react strongly.

The same tactic can work for cats. When the cat jumps on your lap for no apparent reason, walks on the newspaper you are trying to read, or nags you while you are watching television, try the “Show me” routine. You’ll be able to sit in peace after satisfying its wants or needs.