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Responsible Dog Ownership
Owning a dog (not being owned by one) is one of the really great experience of childhood, adulthood and old age. One is never to old or to young to share their life with a dog and there is never a stage where you will benefit from it, that is if you are a person who should own a dog. That "if" is a very important word. There is nothing wrong with not being a dog person. There is a great deal wrong with owning a dog if you are not. There is only one way to own a dog, the right way. That means your canine companion is healthy, well-mannered and well adjusted to your lifestyle. Care enough about owning a dog to be a good owner and in so doing help alleviate the complaints which in turn lead to stricter and stricter dog legislation.
Be gentle but firm. The dog has to know you mean business and you are the boss.
Be consistent. Give the same punishment at the same time for the same action.
Make the dog aware it has done wrong. Like the mule you have to get it's attention first.
Puppy proof you place. While still puppies, don't leave temptation lying around for them to chew on - they get bored quickly. Also that special treasure of yours won't be destroyed by your new family member.
Give them their own toys to chew on.
Be loving. Praise them and love them especially when they have done something good.
If your leadership is consistent, your dog will be a pleasure to live with. The more you ask of your dog, the better he will respond to you, once the idea of pack leadership has been established as an element in both your lives. House training and chewing are the two problems commonly reported by dog owners. Common sense and the use of your dogs instincts can help cure these problems. Most dogs seek an enclosed or semi-closed area when they are tired or frightened. An area under a bed, chair, table or in a corner is usually selected. Never close the door for most dogs will bark, chew or scratch at the door to get out. Use a gate so that he can see through. Another solution is to use a crate as an enclosure.
Some of the most common mistakes are the result of the owners over reacting to a dog's behavior. Correcting with anger, instead of understanding usually teaches a dog to react to you rather than the situation. There is a world of difference between teaching and intimidation. Dogs crave attention and at times negative attention is better than no attention at all. Yelling and hitting are both forms of negative attention.
Please consider checking out an "Obedience Puppy Class" in your area. It is well worth the time, effort, and minimal cost.