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Showing who the master his

Originally, the social life of the dog was structured around a group (pack of hounds) which was organized thanks to a hierarchic system determining the place of every individual as dominated or prevailing within the group. Placed in a family, the puppy is of course going to try to find its place and its hierarchic rank in this family which represents the pack of hounds. By pointing out to him his hierarchic rank with simple daily gestures which he is able to interpret, you will save yourself a lot of worries and will give to your new companion the possibility of a long, happy and balanced life. In fact, a high number of euthanasias are done every year following behaviour disturbances which find their origin in errors made in educating dogs.

Give food to your dog only when you have eaten yourself first and also refuse any request from his/her part (do not give him any food when you are at the table. That's what would take place for him if he was in a pack of hounds in which he would not be predominant)

Adopt the tone of a leader when it is necessary! Words have not enough senses to a dog, he is much more sensitive to non verbal language like the tone and the attitudes that you adopt.

So, if you reprehend your dog: adopt a firm, emotionally higher tone than the one that you use habitually to speak to him. If you use reasonable words ("you should not do this, it is not nice") without linking them with the appropriate tone and position, your dog will not be able to understand the message.

Do not hesitate in your movements if you advance towards your dog, do not brake if he threatens, go frankly to him.

It is you who chooses when games (petting) have to begin or end. As leader or predominant member, you have privilege to choose the instants when you like to play with your dog. If he solicits you while you do not want to play, ignore him.

Put an end fast to any try of nibbling. Young dogs have a tendency to nip during their games, it is important that they learn fast to control themselves to avoid accidents later. If your puppy nips your hand, put an end to the game by catching it firmly by the skin of the neck and by saying to him NOT. And then, stop the game immediately.

Be consistent and constant in your approvals and bans. For your animal to learn easily, it is important that all members of the family follow the same rules in relation to the dog. Also, the dog will not be capable of understanding that rules change according to instants or circumstances.