Is it a must to teach "signal" commands before verbal"?

[Mrstattedup]

I started training my rotti as soon as she turned 8 weeks..I got her at 5 1/2 weeks..(I know a little too soon)..but I gave her time to be free as a baby..but I felt that she could start obeying commands now..she is now 8 1/2 going on 9 weeks..and she has learned so quick..that I didn't even have use signal commands..except for the "stay" command..but even at that she doesn't need the signal..and the "come" or "here"..every once in a while I do have to pat my leg..to get her attention to come when she's distracted..
is this important?..if so I will start using both signal/verbal commands!

[Michael C.]

I always teach our girl at the same time. I say the command while giving the signal. It is like killing two birds with one stone. Then, after they learn them, I will practice with just the hand signal and then just the verbal command.

[pride-and-joy]

I have done the same as Michael C., giving the verbal and hand signal simultaneously. Then alternating verbal or hand signal only.

I like the hand signals because it helps keep Jake's eyes on me, especially in distance commands.

[rottmommie]

I talk with my hands, and never talked to my previous dog without using my hands, not even realizing it
Came in handy when he went deaf....he always watched me and knew what I wanted....took a LONG time to find out that he was deaf....my boyfreind noticed cause he didnt listen to him...(he doesnt use his hands)
I will ALWAYS teach hand signals, and at the same time I speak to my dog. It is wonderful to know that if deafness should silence his world, he will still be able to know just what I want from him!

[Lora Lee]

How many school rooms do you see without a chalk board? Not many, same theory applies to dogs. Your dog will retain 60% more, cutting training time in half, IF you can teach with signals. SEE and HEAR it, SAME TIME.

I find most people already do 'something' silent without knowing it (while giving a command or even before). The key to effectivly training with hand signals is to keep it simple. Be consistant. You'll find it's very easy. :)

[Mrstattedup]

Lora Lee:
You put it in perfect words..!
For me to understand exactly anyways!
Makes perfect sense!..Thnx!

[Lora Lee]

Your very welcome ;) Happy Training :) :)