"Training doesn't limit a dog. Training frees a dog. My dog, being trained, is free - free to walk with me, free to ride with me, free to play off-leash with other dogs, free to learn and run. An untrained dog is "free" to sit in the backyard where he can get into as little trouble as possible."- Sue Ailsby  Stacy's Wag N Train Tips

Just like humans, dogs aren't born with the ability to understand language.  They learn from responsible parents who practice and challenge them, or they act like animals.

 

Every day training is simple and vital - click here

Potential Issues for Homes that have a Dog & New Baby - click here

Robins Pet Tips: PAWS click here

Five More Fabulous Sports To Try With Your Dog - click here

Dr. P's : Other Stuff - click here
Various topics including drives & the human/dog bond.

Hot Topics: - click here

 

A simple formula to produce a good puppy Reward the Good + Ignore the Bad = Success
DO	DON'T
reward sitting quietly (sit for attention)  encourage play with dogs own toys reward the dog for being quiet ("good quiet") feed the dog when he sits politely reward the dog each time he comes to you exercise him to prevent boredom let him earn his treats as rewards reward him for waiting at doorways reward eye contact every time you get it reward loose-leash walking with forward motion	DON'T stroke the dog if he jumps up (turn away) DON'T chase the dog to get back your belongings DON'T yell at the dog for barking (attention = reward) DON'T put the bowl down while he's jumping around DON'T scold if he runs off, then comes back (never scold when he comes to you) DON'T punish for habits developed due to boredom DON'T give him anything he wants because he's cute DON'T let him barge through (slam the door shut) DON'T let him reward himself for bad behaviors DON'T move at all if he pulls the leash tight

A reward can be a treat, a game, a toy, attention, petting, eye contact, or access to something the puppy wants (like to go through a door, or to continue a walk).  Even yelling can be a reward to a dog who never gets any kind of attention. Be careful what you reward

A punishment is withholding a reward. You never have to get more nasty than that. The most powerful punisher is to ignore the dog. This means no reaction at all, not even eye contact, which could be perceived by the dog as successfully getting your attention.

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