Whether you are helping your dog adjust to its new home, or you have lost your leadership position in your dog/owner "pack", following these suggestions will help you take control and address many behavior problems that have occurred or can occur. If your dog is pushy, out of control, lacks respect for your authority and lets you know it, he does not regard you as a leader and, as a result, assumes the leadership position himself and takes control of the household. Remember, even if the dog is new to your household and seems to be on his best behavior, he will soon establish himself as the "Alpha" dog in your "pack" if you are not consistent in your handling and in your demands of the dog.

Be Consistent. Dogs feel more comfortable if they know what to expect. Being consistent in your schedule means always feeding, walking, socializing, playing with your dog, and any other routine you have established, at the same time every day. This also means being consistent with the rules your dog is expected to follow. Everyone in the household (the dog's "pack") must agree on how to teach the dog these rules and enforce them. Give commands only if you have a means of enforcing them through proper correction.

Do Not Get Angry. Anger elicits fear, not respect; you want your dog to respect you. Anger may be interpreted as a threat or challenge by the dog, and it will not lead to the desired behavior. Use quick, effective corrections without getting your emotions involved in the training process.

Crate Train. There are many benefits to crate training your dog: it will give you more control, it can prevent behavior problems when you are not there to supervise the dog, and it can serve to break undesirable habits. With the correct training methods, dogs learn to like their crate and it becomes their own safe place or "den".

Nothing In Life Is Free! Make your dog earn praise and treats. Praise will mean much more to the dog if he earns it. For example, tell the dog to "Sit" before being petted or given a treat. Make sure to also praise him when he does obey. Praise is the dog's reward, and should be immediate and short-term. You don't have to give the dog less attention, just keep in mind that it should be on your terms; in this way, he will realize that you are in control.

Enjoy Your Dog You and your dog will enjoy each other more once the dog accepts you as the leader. We want dogs to look forward to spending time with their owners, so find fun activities to do together. Games can be used as positive reinforcement for obedience and can also be a lot of fun for you, the owner. Even your walks together will help to strengthen the bond between the two of you.