Training Your Dog for a Reliable Recall Using Fun Games

Developing a fast and reliable recall with your dog can be both effective and enjoyable by incorporating playful exercises into your training routine. The key to success lies in making sure your dog associates the recall command with positive experiences and enthusiastic rewards. Here’s how you can achieve that:

1. The “Here” Command Basics

When teaching your dog to come to you, the “Here” command should simply mean showing up. At this stage, don’t worry about having your dog sit in front of you. The goal is for your dog to eagerly appear when called, and your response should always be cheerful and encouraging.

2. Positive Reinforcement

Always use a happy and excited tone when calling your dog. Never call your dog to punish them or when you’re upset, as this could create negative associations with the recall command.

3. Tracking Game

Start with a simple tracking game to build your dog’s enthusiasm for the recall. Begin by calling your dog’s name followed by “Here” (e.g., “Charlie, Here”). As your dog approaches, place a treat on the ground, then immediately turn in the opposite direction and repeat the process. Over time, increase the distance by sliding the treat further away, encouraging your dog to grab it and rush back to you. This game sets the foundation for more advanced recall exercises.

4. Hide and Seek

To further enhance your dog’s recall, introduce a game of hide and seek. Start by incorporating the tracking game but begin to hide behind objects like a table or couch, with part of you visible. When your dog finds you, shower them with praise and affection. Gradually make the hiding spots more challenging as your dog becomes more skilled at finding you. The goal is for your dog to quickly respond and start searching as soon as they hear “Charlie, Here!”

5. Restrained Recall

Involve a helper to hold your dog’s collar while you walk out of sight. Call your dog cheerfully using the “Here” command. The moment your dog starts pulling toward you, have the helper release them. This exercise, when practiced regularly, strengthens your dog’s desire to reach you quickly when called.

6. Ping Pong Recall

This exercise requires at least two people standing in a loose circle, each armed with treats. Take turns calling your dog with “Charlie, Here,” encouraging your dog to move quickly between people. Initially, you may need to reach out with a treat close to your dog’s nose to grab their attention. As your dog becomes more responsive, increase the distance between the participants, continuing to take turns calling and rewarding.

7. Leash Practice Drills

During your walks, suddenly take five to seven steps backward while clapping and cheerfully saying “Charlie, Here!” When your dog spins around and chases you, stop and reward them with enthusiastic praise and affection. If needed, crouching down can help encourage your dog to come to you faster.

These fun and interactive games not only improve your dog’s recall but also strengthen the bond between you and your pet. By consistently using positive reinforcement, your dog will learn to respond quickly and happily whenever you call.

Tips for Successful Leash Walking

A common challenge many dog owners face is difficulty in walking their dog on a leash. However, regular walks are crucial for your dog’s physical health and mental well-being. They offer not only a chance to exercise but also an opportunity to bond and provide your dog with much-needed variety in their daily environment. Imagine being confined to your house all day—just like you, your dog needs to explore and experience new surroundings. Here are some practical tips to help make your walks more enjoyable and effective.

1. Establishing the Heel Position

Start by positioning your dog in the heel position, on your left side. Hold the entire leash in your left hand, leaving your right hand free to make corrections. Stand up straight, relax your arms, and ensure that the leash is loose, allowing the collar to hang slightly. A tight collar gives your dog no incentive to adjust their behavior, as they are being restricted regardless of their position. Your dog should understand that a loose collar means they’re doing well, while a collar correction (a quick snap and release) indicates they need to adjust.

2. Starting the Walk

With your dog in the heel position, use the command “Let’s Go” and step off with your left leg. If your dog starts pulling, stop immediately and say “Stop.” It’s helpful to imagine an invisible line, level with your dog’s chest. If your dog crosses this line, it’s considered an infraction that requires a correction. One effective correction is to quickly turn 180 degrees in the opposite direction, redirecting your dog’s attention back to you. This method teaches your dog that pulling doesn’t help them get closer to their destination. Continue to change directions unpredictably until your dog begins to focus on you.

3. Adjusting Your Expectations

Be prepared for the possibility that you might not reach your intended destination. The focus should be on the quality of the walk rather than the distance covered. Even if you only walk back and forth in front of your curb for 15 minutes, it’s still a productive session as long as your dog is learning.

4. Flexibility in Positioning

While traditional training often emphasizes keeping your dog on your left side, this is primarily for formal obedience competitions. For everyday walks, it can be beneficial to switch sides, placing yourself between your dog and any distractions (such as other dogs, people, or interesting objects). This position helps you block your dog from potential distractions and reinforces your role as the leader, making your dog feel more secure.

5. Building Trust

In the beginning, frequent side-switching may be necessary to manage distractions. However, as your dog learns that you’re in control and will protect them from any outside interference, they will begin to relax and enjoy the walk more. The more your dog trusts that you know where you’re going and will keep them safe, the more pleasant your walks will become.

With these tips in mind, your walks can become a more enjoyable and effective part of your dog’s routine, leading to a happier, healthier, and more obedient companion. Happy walking!

Understanding and Addressing Common Causes of Dog Aggression

Aggression in dogs is often rooted in their natural instincts as pack animals. Dogs have an inherent need to understand their role within the family structure, which is their pack. If a dog is uncertain about its position or feels a lack of leadership, it may attempt to assert dominance, leading to aggressive behaviors. Addressing these issues requires clear leadership and consistent boundaries.

1. The Importance of Leadership and Structure

Dogs thrive in environments where there are clear rules and a stable hierarchy. Without proper leadership, dogs may feel compelled to take control, which can manifest as dominance-related aggression. This is not typically isolated to one area but can affect multiple aspects of behavior. Establishing yourself as a calm, assertive leader helps prevent your dog from trying to take on a leadership role, which can lead to scuffles among dogs, bullying, and other forms of aggression such as excessive barking, growling, or guarding behaviors.

2. Assigning Pack Positions

To create a harmonious household, it’s crucial to assign and enforce pack positions for your dogs. If you do not establish these positions, your dogs may attempt to do so themselves, leading to conflicts. A simple way to assign pack positions is to base them on the order in which you acquired your dogs, with the dog you’ve had the longest taking the highest rank. This hierarchy should be reflected in all interactions, including feeding, grooming, and training.

3. Recognizing and Correcting Aggressive Signals

When introducing a new dog or managing existing dogs, it’s important to observe their behavior closely. Signs of aggression or assertiveness, such as raised hackles, showing teeth, growling, or intense staring, should be addressed immediately. Corrections can be made through a variety of methods, such as a quick touch, a firm tone, or a shift in body language. The key is to be assertive and consistent, ensuring that the correction is applied at the first sign of aggressive behavior.

4. Demonstrating Leadership Through Daily Interactions

Simple actions can reinforce your role as the leader. For example, make your dog work for attention by asking them to sit before petting them or before putting on their leash. Always enter and exit through doors first, and handle your dog regularly by touching their feet, ears, teeth, and tail. This not only reinforces your leadership but also makes it easier to perform necessary tasks like grooming or administering medication.

5. Ensuring Safety and Addressing Alert Barking

Safety is a critical concern for dogs, and they need to feel that their environment is under control. When your dog alerts you with a bark, it’s important to investigate and then reassure them with a release word, such as “thank you,” to signal that the situation is under control. If you ignore these alerts, your dog may escalate their barking or develop other problematic behaviors.

By establishing clear leadership, setting consistent boundaries, and understanding the underlying causes of aggression, you can help your dog feel secure and reduce aggressive tendencies. This approach not only fosters a peaceful household but also strengthens the bond between you and your dog, leading to a trusting and respectful relationship.

When it comes to your dog’s health and well-being, few things are as important as the food they eat. The quality of your dog’s diet has a direct impact on their overall health, longevity, and quality of life. A nutritious diet can help prevent a wide range of medical issues, from obesity and joint problems to heart disease and allergies. Conversely, feeding your dog a low-quality diet can lead to significant health problems that may result in frequent, costly visits to the veterinarian.

1. The Importance of Choosing the Right Dog Food

Selecting the right dog food can be overwhelming given the vast array of options available on the market. However, taking the time to research and educate yourself is crucial. Look for dog foods that are rich in high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Avoid products that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products, as these can be harmful to your dog’s health.

2. Resources for Independent Dog Food Reviews

To make informed decisions, it’s beneficial to consult independent resources that evaluate and rate dog foods based on their nutritional content and ingredient quality. Websites like Dog Food Analysis and Dog Food Advisor provide comprehensive reviews that are easy to understand. These platforms offer detailed breakdowns of the ingredients in various dog foods and rate them on a scale to help you choose the best option for your pet. By using these resources, you can avoid marketing gimmicks and focus on what truly matters—your dog’s health.

3. Understanding Feeding Guidelines

One common mistake pet owners make is following the feeding guidelines printed on the dog food bag. It’s important to understand that these guidelines are often designed to encourage more frequent purchasing, as they are typically higher than what your dog might actually need. Instead, base your dog’s feeding amount on their specific needs, including their age, weight, activity level, and overall health. Regularly monitor your dog’s weight and adjust their food intake accordingly to maintain a healthy body condition.

4. Consulting with Your Veterinarian

While independent research is essential, consulting with your veterinarian can provide additional guidance tailored to your dog’s individual health needs. Your vet can help you determine the appropriate portion sizes, recommend specific brands that align with your dog’s health requirements, and advise you on any special dietary considerations.

5. The Long-Term Benefits of a Healthy Diet

Investing time and effort into selecting a nutritious dog food pays off in the long run. A healthy diet can contribute to a shiny coat, strong muscles, healthy digestion, and a robust immune system. It also reduces the risk of chronic illnesses, which can save you significant costs related to veterinary care and medications.

In summary, by educating yourself about dog nutrition and making informed choices, you can ensure that your dog enjoys a long, healthy, and happy life. Don’t rely solely on the feeding instructions on dog food packaging; instead, use them as a starting point and adjust based on your dog’s needs, always keeping their well-being as your top priority.

Effectively Managing and Reducing Excessive Barking in Dogs

Excessive barking can be a challenging behavior to address, but with a comprehensive approach targeting multiple areas, it’s possible to significantly reduce or even eliminate this issue. Here’s a detailed guide to help you tackle excessive barking by focusing on outside barking, calming your dog inside, and establishing good door manners.

1. Addressing Outside Barking

Dogs often bark excessively outdoors because they feel nervous or anxious, particularly when they perceive a threat or feel the need to guard their territory. This behavior is common in dogs who patrol areas like windows, doors, and fence lines. To help your dog feel secure, it’s important to acknowledge and address any alert barks promptly.

When your dog barks at something outside, check the area of concern. Then, turn and confidently approach your dog, moving them away from the area while calmly using a code word or phrase like “enough” or “quiet.” This action reassures your dog that you, as the leader, have assessed the situation and determined there’s no threat. In a pack, the leader would check an alert and either rally the pack or signal that everything is safe. By simulating this behavior, you help your dog relax and trust that their environment is secure.

Dogs, much like humans, need to feel safe in their surroundings. Imagine if your home had no front door—over time, you’d likely feel on edge, constantly worried about potential intrusions. This is similar to how a dog might feel when they’re left to guard without any reassurance. By addressing their alert barks, you can significantly reduce their anxiety and, consequently, their need to bark excessively.

2. Calming Your Dog Inside

In addition to addressing outside barking, it’s essential to manage your dog’s behavior indoors. Identify the spots where your dog tends to be most vigilant, such as windows, doors, or entryways. Each time your dog approaches one of these spots, calmly walk over, face them, and gently move them away using a command like “move” or “back.” This action reinforces that you are in control of the situation and helps your dog feel less burdened by the need to constantly monitor their environment.

Over time, consistently moving your dog away from their “watch” spots will teach them to relax inside the house, knowing that you are managing any potential threats. This practice not only reduces barking but also contributes to a more peaceful household overall.

3. Establishing Good Door Manners

Teaching your dog good door manners is crucial, especially if they tend to become overly excited or aggressive when someone comes to the door. Dogs often feel that they need to assess whether a visitor is a friend or foe, and if they don’t feel the guest has been properly screened, their anxiety can lead to barking or other unwanted behaviors.

Start by choosing a specific spot near the door where your dog should sit and stay while you answer it. This spot should allow your dog to be part of the action but far enough away that you can correct them if they attempt to rush the door. Establish an imaginary boundary line (e.g., where the carpet meets the tile) that your dog should not cross.

Begin the training by having someone knock on the door. Walk to the door, then turn and face your dog, confidently moving them to the designated spot while using a command like “move” or “back.” Once your dog is in place, reward them with a treat and praise, using firm commands like “sit” and “stay.” If they move, calmly correct them and guide them back to the spot. Repeat this process, gradually increasing the difficulty by opening the door, speaking to the guest, and eventually allowing the guest to enter.

With consistent practice, your dog will learn to remain calm and relaxed when someone comes to the door, trusting that you have the situation under control. This not only curbs excessive barking but also creates a more welcoming environment for your guests.

Final Thoughts

Managing excessive barking requires patience, consistency, and a multi-faceted approach. By addressing your dog’s anxiety both inside and outside the home and establishing clear door manners, you can help your dog feel more secure and reduce their need to bark excessively. Practice these techniques regularly, and over time, you’ll see significant improvements in your dog’s behavior, leading to a calmer, more peaceful household.

The Importance of Timely Praise in Dog Training

One of the most powerful tools in dog training is praise. However, it’s not just about offering praise but doing so at the right moments. Effective praise is more than just a reward; it’s a way to communicate to your dog that they are meeting your expectations and behaving in a way that pleases you. Here’s how to make the most of praise in your training efforts, and why it’s crucial to your dog’s development.

1. Understanding Praise as a Training Tool

Praise can take many forms: your time, attention, petting, and verbal affirmation. These are all ways to show your dog that they are doing something right. The key is to offer praise when your dog is calm and demonstrating the behavior you want to encourage. This not only reinforces good behavior but also helps your dog understand what you expect from them.

It’s essential to be mindful of when you praise your dog. Accidental praise—such as petting or sweet-talking your dog while they are misbehaving—can reinforce unwanted behaviors. For example, if your dog jumps up on you and you pet them, they may think that jumping up is a behavior you want, even if it isn’t.

2. Timing Is Everything

The timing of praise is critical. Make sure you reward your dog only when they are exhibiting the behavior you want. For example, if you want to discourage jumping, only pet your dog when all four of their feet are on the ground. This helps your dog make the connection between being calm and receiving affection. Similarly, if your dog sits quietly on command, immediately offering praise reinforces the idea that sitting calmly is what you desire.

Correcting unwanted behaviors is equally important. When your dog misbehaves, make a correction, and then immediately praise them as soon as they switch to a behavior you want to encourage. This clear contrast between correction and praise helps your dog understand your expectations more quickly.

3. Building a Strong Communication Foundation

Dogs don’t understand human language instinctively; they learn through tone, body language, and consistent commands. To effectively train your dog, it’s crucial to capture their attention and keep them focused on you. You must be the center of their world during training sessions.

To teach your dog commands, break each one down into small, manageable actions. This step-by-step approach helps your dog grasp the meaning of each command, effectively learning your language. As your dog begins to understand what you want from them, this foundation will allow you to build more complex behaviors and refine their training.

4. The Power of Consistency and Clarity

When training your dog, consistency is vital. Your words must carry weight, and it’s important to ask for a behavior once and then show your dog what you mean if they don’t respond. This method ensures that your dog associates each word with a specific action and outcome, making your commands clear and unambiguous.

5. Teaching Your Dog Their Name

One of the most fundamental things you can teach your dog is their name. This can be easily accomplished using food or treats as a positive reinforcement. Start by saying your dog’s name and immediately offering a treat. Move around your home, repeating this process in different locations to reinforce the association. It’s crucial to minimize distractions during this exercise and only use your dog’s name when you’re ready to offer affection and rewards.

When calling your dog’s name, always do so in a happy, upbeat tone. Your dog should learn to associate their name with positive experiences, making it an effective tool for gaining their attention and encouraging good behavior.

Final Thoughts

In summary, praise is a powerful tool in dog training, but its effectiveness depends on timing, consistency, and clarity. By carefully choosing when and how to praise your dog, you can reinforce the behaviors you want and help them understand your expectations. Remember, training is not just about correcting bad behavior—it’s about building a strong, trusting relationship with your dog, where clear communication and positive reinforcement are at the heart of your interactions.

Establishing a Strong Foundation When Bringing Home a New Dog

Bringing a new dog into your home, whether a puppy or an adult, is an exciting experience, but it also comes with challenges. The first few months are crucial as your new dog adjusts to their environment, learns the household rules, and finds their place within the family. This period, often referred to as the “honeymoon phase,” sets the stage for your dog’s behavior and your relationship with them.

1. The Honeymoon Phase: Setting the Stage

During the initial months, your new dog is primarily focused on learning the basics—where they get fed, who the family members are, and what the daily routine looks like. This is a critical time for establishing house rules and setting expectations. As your dog becomes more comfortable, they may begin to test boundaries, exploring the limits of what is allowed. This is a natural part of their adjustment process, as they seek to understand their place in the household hierarchy.

2. The Importance of Structure and Consistency

Dogs thrive in environments with clear rules, guidance, and structure. It’s important for all family members to be on the same page regarding expectations and house rules. Consistency is key; if one person allows behaviors that others do not, it can confuse the dog and lead to problematic behaviors. Establishing a unified approach helps your dog learn faster and feel more secure.

3. Assigning Pack Positions

As pack animals, dogs instinctively seek to understand their role within the family. To prevent conflicts, especially in multi-dog households, it’s beneficial to assign and enforce pack positions. Typically, the dog you’ve had the longest takes the top position, followed by newer additions in the order they joined the family. This hierarchy should be respected during daily routines, such as feeding, grooming, and playtime.

For example, if the new dog tries to take something from an existing dog, intervene immediately, returning the item to the original dog. Similarly, if the new dog pushes or crowds the established dog, correct the behavior promptly. By consistently enforcing these rules, you help both dogs understand and accept their positions, which leads to a more harmonious household.

4. Monitoring and Addressing Behavior

During the early days, closely observe your new dog’s behavior for signs of aggression or assertiveness, such as raised hackles, pricked ears, showing teeth, growling, or staring. It’s important to address these behaviors at the first sign to prevent escalation. Corrections should be quick and firm, using methods like a touch, a tap, or a steady gaze. For excessive barking, a gentle hold of the muzzle with a verbal command can be effective. Remember, the goal is to correct the behavior and then move on, reinforcing calm and acceptable behavior.

5. Building a Secure and Relaxed Environment

When both dogs understand that their positions are secure and protected by you, they are more likely to relax and coexist peacefully. This sense of security is crucial for reducing anxiety and preventing fights or aggressive displays. A well-structured environment where dogs know what to expect leads to a happier and more well-adjusted pet.

Final Thoughts

Bringing a new dog into your home is a significant event that requires patience, consistency, and a clear plan for establishing rules and structure. By taking the time to carefully manage the honeymoon phase, assign and enforce pack positions, and address behavioral issues promptly, you can set your dog up for long-term success in your household. The effort you put in during these early months will pay off in the form of a well-behaved, secure, and happy dog who knows their place in the family and thrives within it.

Starting Fresh: Building a Strong Relationship with Your New Dog

When welcoming a new dog into your home, it’s important to recognize that every household is unique, and what worked in your dog’s previous environment may not be applicable in yours. To ensure a smooth transition and foster a strong bond with your new pet, it’s best to start from scratch. By teaching your dog exactly what you expect from the beginning, you can set clear boundaries and establish a trusting, respectful relationship.

1. Setting the Foundation with House Rules

Begin immediately by introducing your dog to the house rules. These rules should be consistent and enforced calmly and assertively. Establishing yourself as the leader is crucial in helping your dog understand their role within your family. Leadership in this context means being calm, consistent, and clear in your expectations.

2. Incorporating Leadership into Daily Interactions

To reinforce your leadership position, have your dog work for your attention. Simple actions, like having your dog sit before petting or putting on a leash, can significantly reinforce their understanding of who is in charge. Entering and exiting doors before your dog is another subtle but effective way to assert your leadership.

Regularly handling your dog—touching their feet, ears, teeth, toes, and tail—not only helps them become comfortable with being handled but also makes routine tasks like grooming and medical care much easier. For instance, getting your dog used to having their teeth brushed or ears checked will make these activities less stressful for both of you.

3. Using Food to Reinforce Positive Behavior

Consider incorporating hand feeding into your routine as a way to build trust and reinforce positive behavior. By feeding your dog a small amount from their bowl before giving them the rest, you teach them to associate your presence and commands with positive outcomes. This method also strengthens the bond between you and your dog, as they learn to rely on you for their needs.

4. Ensuring Safety and Security

Dogs thrive in environments where they feel safe and secure. As the leader, it’s your responsibility to address any situations that may cause your dog anxiety. For example, when your dog barks to alert you to something, take the time to investigate the cause of the bark. Once you’ve assessed the situation, give a release word like “thank you” to signal that everything is under control. This reassures your dog that they don’t need to continue being on high alert, which can prevent excessive barking and reduce stress.

5. Consistency and Patience

Remember that building a trusting and respectful relationship with your dog takes time and consistency. By starting from scratch and clearly communicating your expectations, you help your dog adapt to their new environment more easily. Over time, your dog will learn the rules of the house, and you’ll develop the friendship and mutual respect that are key to a happy, harmonious home.

In summary, the key to successfully integrating a new dog into your home lies in starting with a clean slate, establishing clear rules, and consistently reinforcing positive behavior. By doing so, you not only help your dog feel secure and confident but also lay the groundwork for a lifelong bond based on trust and respect.

Bringing Your New Dog or Puppy Home: A Guide to Building a Strong, Trusting Relationship

Bringing a new dog or puppy into your home is an exciting milestone, but it’s also the beginning of a journey that requires preparation, patience, and consistency. The first few days and weeks are crucial for establishing a bond of trust and setting the foundation for a long-term, successful relationship with your new pet. Here’s how to ensure a smooth transition and create a positive environment for your dog from day one.

1. Establishing Leadership and Building Trust

As you welcome your new dog home, it’s important to begin working on your leadership skills immediately. Dogs thrive when they understand their place in the household and when they have clear, consistent guidance from their owners. Start by setting house rules and gently but firmly enforcing them. For example, decide early on whether your dog will be allowed on furniture, where they will sleep, and what areas of the house are off-limits.

Routine and structure are essential. Dogs, by nature, feel more secure when they know what to expect. Establish a daily schedule that includes feeding times, walks, playtime, and rest. This not only helps with housebreaking but also reduces anxiety and helps your dog settle into their new environment.

2. Treating Your Rescue Dog as a New Beginning

If your dog is a rescue, it’s natural to feel empathy for the challenges they may have faced in the past. However, it’s important to treat their arrival in your home as a new beginning. By providing a clean slate, you allow your dog to move forward without being burdened by their past experiences. Focus on the future and the life you’re building together, using positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior and build confidence.

3. Preparing Your Home for a New Dog

Before bringing your new dog home, it’s essential to prepare your living space to ensure their safety and comfort. Choose a small, cozy area in a high-traffic part of your home where your dog will spend most of their time initially. This helps with housebreaking and allows you to supervise and guide your dog as they learn the house rules and new routines.

Puppy-proofing your home is a must, even if your new pet is not a puppy. Dogs, especially those new to your home, might explore their surroundings in ways that can be dangerous. Here are some key safety precautions to take:

• Use Baby Gates: These can help keep your dog close to you and away from areas where they shouldn’t go.
• Remove Hazardous Items: Clear low shelves and tables of anything that could be harmful if chewed or ingested.
• Cover Electrical Cords: Ensure that cords are out of reach or safely covered to prevent chewing.
• Store Chemicals Safely: Keep household chemicals, cleaners, and any potential poisons locked away and out of reach.
• Manage Blind Cords: Make sure that blind cords are securely tied up or out of reach to prevent entanglement.

Having a crate set up in the main area of your home is also highly beneficial. A crate provides a safe space for your dog when you’re away and can be an invaluable tool in housebreaking. Crate training, when done correctly, helps your dog feel secure and establishes a routine that supports their learning.

4. Starting Training from Day One

Begin training your dog as soon as they come home. Basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” can start immediately, reinforced by plenty of praise and treats. Remember that training is not just about teaching commands but also about building a relationship based on trust and mutual respect.

In addition to commands, work on socializing your dog with the various sights, sounds, and experiences in their new environment. This might include meeting new people, encountering other dogs, or getting used to household noises like the vacuum cleaner.

Final Thoughts

Bringing home a new dog or puppy is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it requires thoughtful preparation and a commitment to leadership, routine, and positive reinforcement. By starting with a clean slate, establishing clear house rules, and creating a safe environment, you set the stage for a trusting and fulfilling relationship with your new pet. Remember, the effort you put in during these early days will pay off in a happy, well-adjusted dog who knows their place in your home and feels secure in your leadership.