I think sometimes it's okay to try saying a little. Just a word or two. Sometimes they can see in your expression and body language the words that you can't say...and if you manage a word or two and that's all, then you're a little bit less alone with it.

And just to go completely off topic, I like your display picture too. I bumped into one at the park the other day too who was very shy but stunning. I'd love to be able to own a sighthound of some sort one day, but not sure if it'll happen.