So far, we have discussed many different basic training commands, SIT, COME when called, TAKE IT, LEAVE IT, DROP IT, Potty Training, HEEL, and STAY and WAIT. This would be the final command necessary to complete a “basic training” class, laying a foundation for more advanced commands later on.
This will teach your dog a certain PLACE to go when you do not want him underfoot. Sometimes, this may be referred to as a CONTROL CENTER. To teach this, you first must choose the PLACE. It can be a cushion, a rug, a towel, the dog’s bed or even his crate. Read the rest of this entry »
Many dogs have a natural instinct to chase something. Those triggers are usually activated by some fast, unexpected movement, like a bicycle, a cat, or even a car. All dogs, regardless of how sweet they can be, are capable of predatory aggression. Training when he or she is young will help you to control this natural instinct. Unfortunately, if they are successful at chasing down and killing their prey early in their lives, the habit can be extremely hard to break. As evidenced by their wild canine cousins, wolves, dogs are predators. Many generations of domestication, selective breeding, and training have dramatically reduced their predatory instincts. 
Food aggression is something that I do not put up with in my pack. When my brother, Tax, joined our family, he was food aggressive. He would growl and snap when anyone approached either his food or water dish. I gave him a few days to get used to our family and our place, but I could not have anyone in my pack aggressive about food, so it was time for me to rule with an iron paw! 
HEEL is probably one of my least favorite training commands, and I am sure that I am not alone. Why do I dislike it? It gives Mom, or any human, too much control! I really like the freedom of walking with a loose leash, because it gives me a chance to check things out and look around a little bit. But when we are practicing HEEL, I do not get that kind of freedom. Mom says that HEEL is one of the more regimented of the walking commands. When teaching your your dog this command, there are two different methods depending on the size of the dog. Below, you will see instructions for both a BIG DOG HEEL and a LITTLE DOG HEEL. 
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