Teaching an Old Dog New Tricks

Commands

If you want your dog to come when called, don't change from 'come here, boy,' to 'Jake, come!' The same applies for all of the other commands - it will just confuse your dog. Try to keep your voice the same tone and volume, too.

Rewards

Rewarding a dog for good behavior with food can't fail. The best kinds of treats to use are the sticks of beef or chicken that can be broken into small bits. To prevent your dog from being reliant on food rewards, make sure you remember to pat her and praise her as well. If your dog is prone to putting on weight, use low-fat treats or replace the treats with a game with a favorite toy.

Punishment and Correction

You should never need to punish a dog. A dog won't connect your anger with the remains of the pair of expensive shoes that he chewed. If you come home to find your dog has chewed the leg of your antique dresser, ignore him. If you catch the dog whilst he's in the midst of chewing, however, shout 'NO' and offer something suitable for him to do, such as a toy to chew on rather than the dresser's leg. To save your belongings, keep them out of harm's way - and remember that, despite popular belief, dogs do not experience guilt. If your dog does something wrong, say 'Good dog' and start again. Go overboard on the praise when he does something right. Above all, you should never, ever abuse or hit your dog.