Basic Training Techniques

Nothing In Life Is Free" is a way of living with your dog that will help him behave better because he trusts and accepts you as his leader and is confident knowing his place in the family.

How to Practice "Nothing In Life Is Free"

 Use positive reinforcement methods to teach your dog a few commands and/or tricks. "Sit," "Down," and "Stay" are useful commands. "Shake," "Speak," and "Roll over" are fun tricks to teach your dog.

 Once your dog has mastered a few commands, you can begin to practice "Nothing In Life Is Free." Before you give your dog anything (food, a treat, a walk, a pat on the head) he must first perform one of the commands he has learned. For example:

Owner:	YOUR DOG:
Put your dog's leash on to go for a walk	Must sit until you've put the leash on
Feed your dog	Must lie down and stay until you've put the bowl down
Play a game of fetch after work	Must sit and "shake hands" each time you throw the toy
Rub your dog's belly while watching TV	Must lie down and roll over before being petted

 Once you've given the command, don't give your dog what he wants until he does what you want. If he refuses to perform the command, walk away, come back a few minutes later, and start again.

 Make sure your dog knows the command well and understands what you want before you begin practicing "Nothing In Life Is Free."

 To ensure that your home is a safe and happy place for pets and people, it's best that the humans in the household assume the highest positions in the dominance hierarchy. Practicing "Nothing In Life Is Free" gently and effectively communicates to your dog that his position in the hierarchy is subordinate to yours.

*REMEMBER A PET IS A LIFETIME COMMITTMENT PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU CAN PROVIDE TRAINING, MEDICAL AND DENTAL CARE AND A FOREVER HOME, BEFORE YOU ADOPT A PET. KEEP THE PET POPULATION DOWN BY GETTING YOUR PET SPADE OR NEUTERED.*