A well socialized dog is much less likely to develop behavior problems.

I now, and for some years previously, use only one method of correction that could be considered harsh. I will occasionally give my dog(s) one sharp lick across the hind end with a short, heavy leather lead, when he knowingly disobeys. Pup feels some pain, and I know it. I also know he understands the reason for the correction…if he didn't, I wouldn't use the correction.

My goal is to have full compliance from pup on the first command, and do it repetitively.

If I think pup does not understand, or realize, his transgression, I do not use the lead for a correction.

I would rather give one quick, solid thwack with that lead than nag, nag, nag a dog to comply. I have found that compliance improves, and stays improved, after pup feels the lead. Again, that lead is only used as a correction if pup understands the command or expectation, and ignores or willfully disobeys it.

During early training pup often needs nothing more than a stern "no." Do not get into the habit of hollering "NO"; pup may just learn (actually, it's almost guaranteed) to only respond when he hears "NO" (LOUDLY), rather than "no" (normally).

The harsh correction using the lead noted above is by no means the only correction pup gets as training progresses–and certainly we all know that training never stops.

Once pup is over the very basic training, understands and complies generally, a trainer can use a lead or checkcord on pup's collar to provide a correction. It does not need to be hard for pup to get the message; a quick, short jerk on the lead usually suffices.

Mom trains her pups to a degree before you take one home at seven or eight weeks old. One of her corrections is picking pup up by the scruff of the neck. Trainers can use a similar correction by grabbing pup by the loose skin on each side of his neck and picking him off the ground, while staring directly into his eyes, and giving him a verbal correction.

A little "shake" does not hurt him, but do not overdo it, and do not throw him back to the ground and risk an injury.

Hollering is unnecessary, and counterproductive. Face it; if someone picked you up totally off the ground there is a pretty good chance that he would have your full attention--ditto for pup.

Requiring consistent behavior is a key to obtaining good behavior from pup. Pup will become confused if one day he is allowed on the couch and the next day he is not.

Another key to obedience and proper behavior is repetition. Dogs are not big thinkers, even though your dog can read you like a book. The fact is, your behavior must be consistent and repetitious to get consistent, proper compliance from your dog.

Corrections must come immediately after the transgression so pup knows what he is being punished for. If a correction cannot be made immediately, avoid it until another opportunity arises.

NEVER call pup to you and then "correct" him when he arrives. He will not come regularly after that. You must go to pup to be effective.