Dog training protocols

8–12 weeks: socialization, toilet, name. 3–6 mo: basic commands, leash. 6–12 mo: recall, stay. Adolescence 6–14 mo — regression is normal, don't quit training.

Clicker or 'yes!' bridges action and reward. Mark at the exact moment, reward within 1–2 sec. Treat phases: 100% reinforcement first, then every other, then random.

The key safety command. Rule: 'come' = always something good, never end play or scold after arrival. Train on a 5–10 m long line, add distractions gradually.

The 'tree' method: leash tightens — stop. The turn method: pulls — reverse direction. 10–15 min daily beats a weekly hour. A front-clip harness helps.

Physical punishment, nose-rubbing 'in the puddle', yelling after the fact — destroys trust and creates fear-aggression. Correction only works in the act; better — interrupt and redirect.

Aggression toward people/pets, resource guarding, separation anxiety, urban fears — see a behaviorist, not 'strict training'. Group socialization classes — from 3 months.