It is very difficult to say no to your dog when they look at you so lovingly. Dogs don’t miss curfews or talk disrespectfully to their owners, so why not give them a bite of your dinner? One table scrap will turn them into perpetual table side beggars. Successful dog training relies on consistency.

Do you envy the dog owner whose dog follows the instruction manual? Loyally walks on their left side and stops walking when their owner stops? Sits on command?

For dogs who are reluctant learners using a dog collar and leash in training can be useful. A choke chain collar can be used along with a leash. Use a choke collar with smooth, rounded edges for superior comfort, smooth operation, and safety-no sharp points or rough edges that can chafe your dog’s skin or snag fur. To properly fit choke collars, measure the circumference of your pet’s neck and add 2″ – 3″.

Dogs must trust their owner/trainer. Part of dog training is building a relationship between a dog and their owner. When the trust is established a dog will look to their owner for behavior cues. Like any strong family bond an owner-dog relationship, is based on trust and mutual respect.

Using a dog leash and either a choke collar or martingale collar, command the dog to sit/stay and slackening the leash. Then command the dog to come. If the dog doesn’t come then give the lead a gentle tug while at the same time issuing the command again.

Leash training with the restrain collars also teaches your dog not to pull while you are walking your dog. If your dog is controlling you, by pulling, give the leash a quick yank to the side. This is an effective and harmless dog instruction that will make walking your dog a pleasurable experience. Remember you are the pack leader and need to have control of your dog.

Excessive barking is an unwanted behavior that requires attention. Dogs usually bark in a standing or sitting position. Command your dog to lie down and the barking should subside. Dogs don’t tend to bark when they are lying down. The command “ENOUGH” spoken in a firm tone also informs the dog to stop barking.

Patience and persistence are needed with dog training. Dogs don’t immediately understand the usefulness of what their owner is trying to accomplish, they just want your attention. A dog wants to please their owner and responds to positive reinforcement when they behave appropriately.

Owning a happy and well socialized dog involves teaching and guidance from the owner. Joanne Gallagher is an expert in dog training and suggests visiting Jake’s Dog Housefor delicious dog treats to reinforce your dogs excellent behavior.