Animal Behavior Control and Dog Training

A well-behaved dog is not just a pet, but a companion that can bring joy to your life. But like children, dogs are not born knowing how to behave; they must be taught. Training your dog to behave as you wish requires a basic understanding of its behavior and a willingness to take command in a kind but firm manner.

  1. The Alpha Dog

    • Successful behavior training begins with the concept of the alpha dog: the pack leader, to whom the rest of the pack are subordinate. "Dominance and alpha behavior are important concepts that every dog owner should comprehend," Barbara Jansen writes in the online magazine Dog Owner's Guide. Establish dominance firmly but gently--not by cruelty, but by exerting calm control. One key technique, Jansen writes, is to simply stare directly into the dog's eyes, which only the pack leader may do.

    The Best Trainer

    • As the "alpha dog," you are the one whose commands your dog will expect to obey---not those of a professional trainer. While a professional trainer or an obedience class can guide your efforts and teach you what to do, you will be the one teaching your dog. "You are the one that he is going to live with, so it follows that you should be the one to train him," states the website Obedient Dog Behavior.

    Next-Best Trainer

    • If you decide to hire a professional trainer, begin by getting recommendations from your veterinarian, a local animal shelter or friends who have hired someone. Pet Education recommends looking into the trainer's education and experience and his professional affiliations. Find out about the dogs he has trained, and observe them to see the kinds of behaviors they exhibit. If they behave the way you want your dog to, then you probably have a good match.

    Consistency, Kindness, Patience

    • Establishing dominance is just the first step in training a dog in obedient behavior. Successfully training a dog takes time and patience, and lessons must be consistently reinforced. "Your goal is to get the dog to respond to your request, delivered in a cheerful voice," advises the American Kennel Club.

      Different breeds take to training differently, as do individual dogs within a breed. Be patient while guiding your dog to the behaviors you want to see. Praise good results and point out errors, but don't dwell on either.

    Training Tools

    • Many aids are available for dog-behavior training, from the simple collar and leash to electronic fences, but simple tools often work best. Introduce your puppy to a collar and leash as soon as possible to get it used to being under your control.

      Dr. Marty Smith, at Pet Education, recommends treats but warns that they must be used carefully. Wean your dog away from treats as a reward for good behavior, Smith suggests, gradually replacing them with verbal praise and affectionate strokes of the hand.