One of the foremost ways to assert your leader status and a key control command is “stay”. The stay requires the dog to remain stationary while you move. Easier said than done in many cases!

First the dog must be doing the “sit” command with no problems. This gets the dog’s attention and shows the proper direction for the dog’s rear. It works amazingly well.

With the dog sitting I thrust a hand in the dog’s direction palm first and fingers raised giving the voice command “stay”. Not yelling, just firm over other noise. Hand movements should be precise and unique to … read more

If you want your dog to sit, tell him SIT! If your dog decides to ignore the command the first time, gently place him into the sit position and then praise him.

Do this with every command, so that your dog doesn’t think that your commands are optional. Stick to the ONE command rule, and your dog will quickly learn to take your commands seriously.

Clearly define your commands. If you expect your dog to follow commands, then it is imperative that he understands what it is that you want him to do.

For example, if you are trying … read more

It is important to determine whether your dog is misbehaving when you leave home because he is bored, or because he is experiencing a case of separation anxiety.

Figuring out why your dog is engaging in bad behaviors is usually the quickest way to combat the problem.

If boredom seems to be the issue, you can probably keep your dog from destroying your house during alone time by providing him a toy stuffed with treats or something else that will help exercise his mind a little.

If separation anxiety is the problem, you will need to learn ways … read more