We’re back with more answers on dog training and obedience from Joanne Lekas, owner/operator of Happy Dog Behavior Training in Waltham, MA.

Lady. G: Joanne, what is the biggest training mistake humans make when training or interacting with their dog?

Joan: Well, the first thing that comes to mind is to speak to your new puppy in English and hope that he understands what you want him to do. Watching him say, “Sit, sit, sit” won’t teach him how to sit.

You need to get the behavior first, usually with a food lure, and once you get the behavior predictably THEN add the command just before the behavior occurs. Being consistent with this order of things will ensure that your pup understands the connection between the action and the command that accompanies it.

The second biggest mistake is ignoring your pup when he’s being good and giving all kinds of attention (even negative) when he’s doing things you don’t want him to do. Reward spontaneous acts of good behavior and these are the behaviors your pup will soon think to do on his own, without your asking.

Mrs. G.: How should one go about choosing a training location?

Joan: Whenever possible, use personal references and observe a class.

Ms. G: What if a dog owner can’t afford the classes and/or can’t fit them into their schedule?

Joan: Other good options are books, DVDs, dog training websites, YouTube, and even some TV shows. Look for programs that use positive reinforcement training.

I am happy to provide reading recommendations to anyone who wants to contact me.

Ms. G: What is your favorite training experience?

Joan: I love teaching puppies. Nothing is cute like a room full of puppies playing. But most of all I love to enlighten and help new dog owners. It makes my day every time I receive an email informing me of a client’s good progress with her puppies or that things have improved since our session.

Mrs. G: If you had one thing to tell dog owners about canine obedience, what would it be?

Joan: Be patient and gentle with your dog. Don’t try to train when you are tired or frustrated. Don’t be mad at your puppy. If you get frustrated, take a break and play.

If he does something wrong, show him what you want him to do. If your pup isn’t responding to you, consider that he’s probably working with too many distractions. Think about how you can make things easier for your pup by starting in a quiet environment and moving to more distracting settings as he understands what is expected of him.

Thank you Joanne! This has been enlightening and very helpful to our readers.