Tips for a Successful Relationship

with your Dog
 

• A tired dog is a good dog! Offer appropriate daily exercise, both physical and mental. Daily walks, off leash romps with other dogs and the use of toys such as Kongs and Tricky Treat Balls allow your dog to burn off that extra energy.

• Living by a Nothing In Life Is Free philosophy will motivate your dog to want to respond to you and teach him that your request is an opportunity to earn a reward.

• Offer clear and consistent leadership. Establish the house rules and offer constant follow through. Dogs thrive on structure and routine. All members of the family should be directed to act accordingly so that the dog doesn't become confused.

• Practice makes perfect. If your dog is doing something you don't like you must manage him so he doesn't get better at his performance.

• Spend more time telling your dog when he is doing it right and less time trying to teach him right from wrong. Punishment doesn't predict future behavior.

• Dog training is not something that you do once per week. Living successfully with a dog is a lifestyle where every moment is an opportunity for your dog to learn. Use known commands as a vocabulary to communicate with your dog. Be consistent with your expectations.

• Well socialized dogs are comfortable being around different people, dogs, situations and environments. These dogs are free to explore the world with their people and are less likely to develop behavior problems.

• Positive doesn't mean permissive. Dogs need feedback and you should immediately interrupt any undesirable behavior. When your dog is doing something right or fixes the mistake you should offer feed back such as food, attention and praise.

• Life with you doesn't come with a manual. Spend time teaching your dog what you want him to know and how to respond in varying situations.

• Aggression begets aggression. Dogs are not wolves and you are not a dog. Trying to dominate your dog will always lead to further problems.