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Hints & Tips
Puppies
Give the majority of your attention when the puppy is calm or preoccupied with chewing a toy.
Pet the puppy when it is tired. A tired puppy is much less likely to nip.
Steer clear of tug-of-war gams as they can lead to nipping and later possibly aggressive behavior.
Be well armed with treats and toys that can be used to distract your puppy.
Exercise, Exercise, Exercise
Jumping
Teach the dog a good sit - stay. The dog will be unable to jump if it is in a sit - stay.
If the dog jumps when you reach for the leash you need to teach him that the leash does not always mean a walk. Take the leash out a minimum of 20 times a day and act like you do not even have it. Pay no attention to the dog. Then go put the leash away.
Do not head out for a walk until the dog is calm. Have him sit until he is calm. If he starts jumping after you put the leash on drop the leash, ask him to sit and leave him there until he is calm.
Excessive Barking
Do not use shock collars because the dog will associate the shock with the person, object, dog, or whatever they were barking at.
Begging and stealing food
Never feed your dog from the table. Put him in a down-stay. Practice this when it is not a meal time.
Leadership skills
The following are a list of leadership skills that I recommend in any situation.
Leadership exercises - Leaders establish rules, enforce rules and maintain social order.
1. Leaders eat first.
2. Leaders go through the doorway first.
3. Leaders stay calm and in control.
4. Leaders set the pace and direction.
5. Leaders do not let their personal space be invaded.
6. Leaders say when play begins and ends.
7. Leaders do not beg for attention.
8. Leaders do NOT offer 'free' treats.
9. Leaders assume higher ground (beds, chairs, couches etc.)
10. Leaders never change their direction or step over the dog.
11. Leaders assign resting spots for other pack members.
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