Follow the Leader
Showing who is the “alpha dog” or who’s boss is not the recommended way to transform bad actions into good through domination and intimidation. Keep in mind you don’t want to let your dog do anything it wants. You must a good leader.
Alpha
The “alpha dog” concept is more mythical than scientific and misguided. Frightening by forcing your dog onto its back and pinning it down your dog will find this confusing and begin struggling violently driving your friend to bite in defense. It is not advisable but if you must use this technique only do so for a very-very short time and ensure no biting can occur. Be aware your dog may be so frightened it will urinate.
No Bully Sir
You must be the boss, the alpha. However do so without unnecessary conflict. Don’t be a bully, be a good leader, a benevolent boss. Control your dog’s behavior by controlling access to things our dog wants. Leadership isn’t about power or dominance.
Use control when your dog wants to go out, like sit before you open the door. When feeding, lie down to earn it. Time to go for a walk? If jumping up on you with excitement, wait calmly until your dog sits. Your dog will happily work for everything it loves and learn to do what you want to earn what the pup wants.
Focus on Good
It’s easier to train by rewarding good behavior when focusing on teaching your dog to do specific things. Over time dogs can learn a vast array of tricks and obedience skills. The hardest part is deciding when and what you’d like your dog to learn. If you want a polite dog you can focus, one at a time, on skills like sit, stay, down, wait at doors, leave it, and come. Very important to master one before adding another.
Time and Time Again
Dogs demand your time. Outings can enhance your and their enjoyment but exercise appropriately depending upon your dog. A high energy dog will enjoy fetching or tug-of war but not recommended for retrievers, you want them to give up what they’ve brought you. Other dogs may be more sedimentary and enjoy cuddling only.
Always remember to let your dog be a dog. Following their natural impulses can be directed into acceptable ways for your dog. There are some things that dogs just need like roughhousing chewing and mouthing. Channel these urges as appropriate. Provide things that are chewable by example.
Most of all remember teaching and learning good manners takes time. We all learn different things at different rates. Persistence pays off in the long run. Training early, often and consistently is essential.
Continue to part four.