What makes a well behaved dog? Is it the dog’s own personality and disposition or is it the training techniques? Actually, it is a little bit of both. Just like people some dogs are easy to get along with and smart and other dogs are more difficult. Also, certain dogs may respond better to different training techniques based upon their own disposition. But any dog can be trained and there are a few dog-training concepts that remain the same regardless of the training that you employ.

Timing is critical when you are training a dog. We may attribute human characteristics to our dogs but dogs are not human and they do not understand human concepts. That means that if you want to correct your dog for pooping on the floor you must catch him in the act. If you find the mess later and try to correct him then he will have no clue why he is being reprimanded and your correction will be futile.

When you are training a dog you must be consistent. Dogs do not comprehend the concept of “sometimes”. If you do not want your dog to chew up your new shoes you must never let him chew any shoe, even an old one that you don’t care about. If you do not want your dog to jump on you when you are wearing your new business suit then you must not let him jump on you when you are wearing your jeans. You have to be consistent with everything, every time.

Many owners get caught up in giving corrections and theyfail to give enough praise. Make sure your dog knows when he is doing something right. Most dogs will learn quicker and easier when they receive a lot of love and praise. Make sure you have a good balance of corrections and praise.

Be authoritative with your dog. When you issue a command, you must be firm. You must be firm and he must obey. Make him go through with a command even if you must show him. Again dogs don’t comprehend the idea of “sometimes”. When you speak, he must obey.

Your training is more apt to be successful if you make it fun. Add in some games and some playing while your dog is learning. It will be good for both of you.

Be fair and reasonable with your dog. He needs to clearly understand exactly what you want. You can break up your training schedules into smaller parts if that will help but it is critical that he clearly comprehends what he is expected to do. He can’t please you if he doesn’t know how.

You are responsible for how well trained your dog is. Any dog can be trained; it is up to the trainer to work with them as required.