Until the 1980s, most pet experts wrongly believed that the best way to train your dog was by showing him that you were ‘alpha’ right from the start, and then maintaining that power balance throughout your pet’s life. This training method is known as theory of dominance, and uses punishment and negative experiences (such as inflicting pain or withdrawing privileges) to discourage any unwanted behaviour.

However, most behaviourists and trainers now know that this concept is flawed: dominance theory was based on faulty research that came from observing wolves in captivity and this brought around the belief that an alpha male in a pack leads through aggression. The issue was that the captive wolves observed during that study were often unrelated and forced to live together in small, man-made enclosures. We now understand that wolves act in a very different way when living in natural family packs in the wild. And, most importantly, we know that although dogs evolved from wolves, domestic dogs behave in a different manner. They don’t form the same sort of family packs as wolves do, and they’ve adapted to live in cooperation with strangers – be it humans or other dogs.

Dominance-based training involves confrontation so it can be very stressful for dogs. Shouting at and punishing a dog will confuse him, which will most likely make him anxious and cause him to resort to defensive behaviour such as aggression. A dog who has been punished is very likely to grow up to be fearful and could even lash out.

Positive reinforcement is a fun and kind way to train dogs as it recognises that they are social animals who enjoy interaction and it works on the principle of rewarding correct behaviour. Training this way is also a much more enjoyable experience for you and your dog. It is important for your bond with your pet to have a relationship based on kindness and, as an added bonus, positive reinforcement works really well. Most dogs are very happy to work for rewards such as treats, toys or praise from their owners. For example, if a dog is given a reward for sitting, he will be more likely to sit again. By focusing on developing a positive relationship with your dog, he will be obedient because he’s happy to do what you ask, rather than because he’s fearful of punishment.

Training to sit

In the past, some trainers recommended forcing a dog to sit by pushing his bottom down to the ground – a more confrontational and aversive method, which caused confusion and anxiety for many pets. Using positive reinforcement is not only kinder, but will also make this basic command simple to teach.

Watch out for any time your dog sits naturally during the day. When his bottom hits the ground, immediately say the command ‘sit’ and reward him with a treat and praise while he is still sitting.

You can also use a treat to ‘lure’ him into a sitting position. To do so, move the hand that’s holding the treat over his head towards the back of his neck. As he follows the treat his bottom should naturally go down. Once he is sitting, give the treat and lots of praise. Your dog will soon be sitting when you use the command ‘sit’.

To prevent jumping up

You might not mind your dog jumping up at you excitedly but this is not something that everyone that will be around your dog will appreciate so here are some tips on how to tackle it.

Try not to shout at your dog or push him down if he jumps up. A negative reaction is likely to confuse him and he may jump up more to try to appease you. Instead, stay calm and turn your back on him. Ignore him and don’t speak.

Then, the second that all four of his paws are back on the ground, reward him with a treat and lots of attention. (Making sure to repeat these steps if he starts jumping again.) Ensure everyone in your family and all visitors also follow this rule.

Your dog will soon learn that the way to get attention, and possibly a tasty treat, is to remain on all fours.

Teaching recall

Recall training is essential for your dog’s safety and allows them to have off-the-lead freedom to explore more areas.

Get into the habit of calling your dog back to you periodically during the day, at home and in the garden, as well as out on walks. Your dog should remain on a lead on walks while you work on training a rock-solid recall. A good way to practice recall on walks while allowing your dog some freedom and space to play and explore, is to use a long line.

To do so, crouch down and hold your arms out wide, as if you are waiting for a hug, and call him excitedly. No matter how long it takes for your dog to return, reward him with a treat or toy and lots of enthusiastic praise. Your dog will learn that coming back when called results in something nice happening, and so will soon be rushing back every time you call.