Proper Dog Correction Techniques

Positive Reinforcement

• The positive reinforcement technique requires the owner to keep a close eye on the dog. When the dog does something the owner finds unacceptable, for example, chewing on a table leg, the owner immediately uses a stern vocal command (such as "No!" or "Bad!") to let the dog know that the behavior is not desirable. The owner then gives the dog a chew toy. When the dog chews on the toy, the owner uses positive reinforcement --- an ear scratch, belly rub, praise, a treat --- to let the dog know that its behavior is now acceptable. This technique works best when used consistently under constant supervision.

Time Outs

• Sometimes a parent uses a method called "time out" when her child breaks a rule. The parent relegates the child to a certain spot in the home where he is cut off from things he likes to do. Dog owners can use this technique as well, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

  When the dog displays inappropriate behavior, the owner reprimands it with "No!" or "Bad!" and then puts the dog into a small room or other safe place. The owner closes the door and ignores the dog for 10 to 30 seconds. If the dog doesn't bark while it is in its time out, the owner lets it out and continues on with his day as if nothing happened. If the dog does bark, the owner should wait until it stops before letting the dog out. The owner should repeat the time out as necessary; eventually, the dog will realize it doesn't like being left alone and the unwanted behavior will end.

Distraction

• Cesar Milan recommends this technique in his book, "Cesar's Way." It involves replacing a dog's unacceptable behavior with something the owner finds acceptable. If the owner finds the dog digging, the owner uses a stern vocal command and then distracts the dog by having it do something else, such as fetching a ball. The dog forgets about digging and instead focuses on the acceptable behavior.

Collar and Short Leash

• To avoid unwanted behavior on walks and at parks, Milan recommends using a short leash attached to the collar so the dog owner is in full control. When the dog does such things as pulling on the leash or trying to pick up trash, the owner gives the leash a quick tug upward to keep the dog's head up, correcting the behavior.

  Milan says the most effective placement of the collar on a dog when taking it for a walk is at the base of its head. Many owners make the mistake of putting the collar around the dog's neck --- one of the strongest muscles in a dog's body --- and find themselves being pulled for the entire walk. When the leash is placed at the top of the dog's neck, just below the head, the owner is in full control, leaving the dog unable to ignore the correction.