Dogs do want to be trained. They have an innate desire to please their master and this is accomplished through training. It is a win-win situation. The dog is happier, knowing how to please his master, and the owner is happy having a well-behaved dog. (To learn more, please see Dove Cresswell’s Dog Training Online.)

Whether or not your dog is smart, he still can be trained. Some basic strategies must be followed though. The first involves the use of rewards. Dogs must learn English but they do immediately understand rewards. A reward says to the dog, “You did exactly what I asked in that command.” A reward underscores good behavior.

Dogs must be trained with clarity and consistency. Clarity means that the command you want him to obey is clear and the same each time. Be as simple with a dog as you would be with a baby. For example, if you want the dog to heal, use that word each time. Perhaps at first accompany it with a pat on your leg or a shortening of the leash until he gets the idea. Then wean him so that he responds only to the word.

Consistency, say the best dog training books, involves making your expectations of the dog constant. For example, if the dog obeys a command three times and then doesn’t obey the fourth time, something different has to happen for him to get the message this was not acceptable. This may involve sad or harsh words and, of course, no reward. The dog must be expected to do the command every time it is given, without exception. If you don’t mean for him to obey, don’t give him the command.

Basic needs must be met first. These include exercise, approval, safety, and, of course, proper food and water. If the dog is hungry, don’t expect his attention on learning unless your rewards are his favorite food. If the dog needs to relieve himself, don’t expect him to be interested in learning how to roll over.

Training involves a regular schedule. Daily training for five or six days a week is better than trying to teach him whenever you get around to it. Also, keep the training sessions to a reasonable length. Most recommend 15-20 minutes at a time of concentrated training. Each session would involve one focus though review is in order as well.

Don’t expect too much of your dog. Patiently go over the same command daily until he catches on. Advanced tricks may take months to master. It will be worth all the work for him to learn.

Practice these religiously. No matter what trick your dog needs to learn, the training will demand that you follow these points. It will result in both you and the dog being pleased with the result.