To have a well-behaved dog who loves you and thinks
you're the greatest, follow the Nothing in Life Is Free formula.
(It works with children too.)
You want to give your dog lots of petting and attention,
good treats and toys, and an interesting life - and we want you
to do that. The trick is to make sure your dog knows these good
things are your gifts to him and not something that just happens.
Ask
your dog to do something for you - like sit or shake - before
giving meals, petting, or toys. Before you head out the door for
a walk, ask him to sit - it's lots easier to get the leash on
that way too. On the walk, just before you get to that bush or
pole that you know he'll want to sniff, ask him to sit; then say
"Let's go sniff" and lead him to it.
It's natural for us to love and respect people
who provide us with the things we want, and in this way dogs are
no different.
Ask
your dog to do something for you - like sit or shake - before
giving meals, petting, or toys. Before you head out the door for
a walk, ask him to sit - it's lots easier to get the leash on
that way too. On the walk, just before you get to that bush or
pole that you know he'll want to sniff, ask him to sit; then say
"Let's go sniff" and lead him to it.