A happy dog is a well-trained dog. Dogs should be taught the basic commands of obedience: sit, down, heel, stay, come and leave. These commands will give you confidence that you ill be able to control your dog.

As leader of the ’pack’, humans should ensure they have certain privileges over their dog. If these rights are observed from an early age then owners will have a well-mannered, considerate dog.

1. Never let your dog share your bed. A dog should be kept as far away from the bedroom as possible to indicate that it is the lowest ranking member of the ’pack’.
2. As master, you have the right to eat first, and this will ensure the dog knows its place. Never feed a dog from the table or throw him scraps. Wait until the table is cleared then feed the dog.
3. Owners should win nearly all games of strength. Depending on the size of the dog, owners should never let their dog consistently win play games. This confuses a dog.
4. Owners should go first through doorways and upstairs. Allowing your dog to push ahead is sending out the wrong message - that it is superior in ranking. Teach your dog to wait at doorways and reward him for his good behaviour.
5. As master, every owner has the right to refuse or demand attention from his or her dog. If a dog acts inappropriately to gain your attention, ignore him. Then demand the dog's attention when he is otherwise engaged as this indicates to the dog who is in control.

If you require information on training schools in your area, check Yellow Pages, contact your dog warden or local vet who will be only too happy to advise you.