How to Raise a Good Dog

Every dog has the potential to be a good dog. Here are some ideas on ways to help move your pet in the right direction.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Consistency
• Firm instructions and repetitions
• Patience

1. Remove distractions from his attention and his reach. Dogs will persevere if they want something badly enough, just like people will. Some dogs are alpha dogs meaning that they are natural pack leaders and tend to be very strong willed. Recognize her tendencies early on and you will be able to deal with her more effectively.
2. Chewing is a natural activity for many young dogs. If you can satisfy his desire to chew in a constructive way, you may be able to save your antique dining room furniture from harm. Give him raw hide or other hard bones as often as needed. A large dog can consume several rawhide bones in a week, particularly when he is in the teething phase.
3. Teach your dog basic commands as soon as possible. Conduct 10-minute training sessions throughout the day when she is a puppy. An adult dog, unlike the saying, can learn new tricks. Teach him throughout his lifetime and reward her with treats and praise consistently. Gradually reduce the treats over time and continue with the praise.
4. Be patient. If the dog is too distracted to listen, wait for a better time to train. Once he is fully trained on a task such as sitting, you should be able to get him to obey even in the presence of distractions. Use the same words and vocal inflection each time you train him and use these commands.
5. The most important thing to give your dog is human contact in the form of love and affection. The more he gets of this, the more he will respond to and respect you and other people. Expose him early on to people, other animals and teach him to sit and wait for moving vehicles to pass before crossing a road.
6. Use milk bones and tartar controlling treats to reward your dog for jobs well done. Some dogs also enjoy carrots, popcorn and bits of apple or other fruit. Do not give him peach pits or anything else you would not give to a young child.
7. Give your dog plenty of exercise, fresh air and sunshine. If he is cooped up all day, his boredom will take control and he may become destructive. If possible, go home at lunch and take him for a quick walk around the block.

Tips & Warnings

• Treat your dog with respect. Please don't dress it up like a spectacle. Some dogs are sensitive and prone to humiliation.
• Some dogs cannot handle rawhide bones as they swallow pieces that are too large. Watch your dog carefully. If he does this, try plastic alternatives. Some have the taste or scent of food imbedded in the bone. Dispose of these when they get old or dried out.