One of the biggest  "secrets" of dog training is that training is occurring ALL the time that you are interacting with your dog- and at least part of the time that you're not.  You're either training something you want the dog to do, OR you're training the dog to do things you'd really rather he didn't, you just didn't realize it!  Many people are very busy, and the idea of having "training sessions" paralyzes them into not putting in any effort at training- I prefer to think about "training moments" throughout the day.  For instance, you can get a quick down stay in before meals, a sit while putting the leash on, etc.  Try and think of all the things that your dog enjoys, and then use those times throughout the day to reinforce your training.

BTW- I'm completely addicted to training, and am a big proponent of clicker training and dog-friendly methods.  I spend a large portion of my non-work time training and interacting with my dogs, and competing in agility.

Agilitynut, Brodie, Kyp!, and Arie

hi   

LOts of LOVE & Praise really helps with training .  Has worked wonders with my Lassie girl....    (((((((((Hugs and dog kisses from Helen & Lassie)))))))

I'm having trouble stopping my adopted Puggle from chasing my cats. Her brain is hardwired like a beagle. She has the Pray Drive. Help!!!!

Lobstah

Lob - when did you get a puggle?  I'm always the last to know  or am just too brain weary to pick up on things

I adopted my Puggle from a local shelter. She's one of the best dogs I've seen. She loves everyone and everything. I think she wants to get to know my cats, but the cats think she's after them. The Beagle in her tells her to chase anything that runs. She's getting better at just leaving them alone thanks to a vibrating training collar. I don't understan why anyone would just give her up unless they had to move and couldn't keep their pet. Her name is Betty Puggle

Just give your puggles and cats some time. I had a pug for many years before I brought a cat in igt took some time but they finally started getting along. Pugs also love to chase any thing that moves my Tasha will will chase birds, squirals, people, etc. Good luck keep us posted

Betty Puggle loves to chase birds too. I think she is getting along better with my cats. They just sit and look at her and she's fine, but if they run it's off to the races.

To help avoid the happy, happy dances and jumps when your company comes, train your company!  I am working with a six month old Border Collie and finally have it.  I tell people who come that they can't show any attention to my dog unless she has "four on the floor"  When they ignore her for a minute, she will come and sit in front of them and at that point they can lavish all the praise they want.  It is also easier when they come down to her level.