One way of producing acceptable canine behavior is praising your dog.  This secret is what dog trainers utilize when they train a dog to do a specific task through a specific command.  Dogs respond appropriately to praise better than corporal punishment or negative feedback.  Giving him praise will also promote your dog’s self-confidence, and produce a happy and self-assured dog.

There are two ways of praising a dog: giving treats and positive words of reinforcement.  These two when properly given will produce wonders in your dog’s behavior.  You will be able to uncover hidden talents and produce a dog that is disciplined and eager to please.

Each time you want a dog to perform a trick, speak the command clearly and distinctly.  Once your dog is able to do the trick, offer him a piece of treat like a piece of dog biscuit.  But there is a downside to constantly using this method.

Every time you give your dog a treat each time he would do as you command, he would be conditioned to expect a biscuit as a reward.  Once you stop giving him treats, he would also soon realize that it would be pointless to do as you command.

In order to maintain acceptable dog behavior, alternate between verbal encouragement and treats.  Each time he does something that you tell him to, go down to his level and say “You’re a good dog, Buddy.”  It’s important that you state your dog’s name as would foster good master-dog relationship and encourage self-worth for your dog.  Bear in mind that dogs are pack animals.

You’re seen as a leader of the pack, and he looks up to you and hangs on to your every word and gesture.   There is not a single thing that you do that is not important to him.  Give him a good pat on his back, or scratch behind his ears each time he exhibits good behavior.

You can also reward your dog by letting him do his favorite activity whenever he behaves favorably.  Say for example he did his best in behaving like the perfect dog even with a room full of rowdy people.

When the guests have gone, go down on all fours and say “Good job, Buddy, you did not bark the whole time my friends were here.” Then go out and have a round of Frisbee or for a walk around the block.  You can also go at the backyard and play with him for 10 minutes or more.

Always be prompt when giving praise or reward to your dog.  A dog that adores his master will always be willing to do everything to gain approval.  Remember to keep a pleasant tone of voice, smile, and be sincere with your praises.  Each time you praise your dog, you will condition him to always be at his best, and still be happy with what he does.