Question 1

How do I stop my dog from barking?

Accepted Answer

Identify the triggers causing the barking and remove them. Never reward barking with attention, even unintentionally. Ask your dog for an alternative behaviour such as sit or down, and reward the quietness. Increase the duration of quiet time gradually.

Question 2

How do I stop my dog from pulling on the lead?

Accepted Answer

First identify the reason behind the pulling — fear or over-excitement. If fear, avoid triggers; if over-excitement, provide outlets before walks. Once out, stop the moment the lead goes tight and only move forward again once it is loose. Reward calm walking consistently.

Question 3

At what age should I start training my dog?

Accepted Answer

Puppies can begin learning from as early as 8 weeks old, making it the ideal time to build good habits. But it is never too late to start — dogs of any age benefit from training.

Question 4

How long does it take to train a dog?

Accepted Answer

Basic commands can be learned within 1–2 weeks of daily practice, but behavioural issues often require more time and patience. Every dog is different, and progress depends on consistency.

Question 5

How do I stop my dog jumping up at people?

Accepted Answer

Step forward gently to knock them off balance, then ask for an alternative behaviour such as sit or down. Only reward the wanted behaviour, and ensure everyone the dog meets does the same — otherwise the dog will keep trying.

Question 6

How do I teach my dog to come back when called?

Accepted Answer

Start at home with no distractions: call your dog's name in a happy tone and reward generously every time they come to you. Never scold them on return, even if they were slow — coming back should always feel like the right choice.

Question 7

How do I stop my dog from chewing everything?

Accepted Answer

Chewing is natural, so the goal is to redirect it onto appropriate items like toys or chews. Ensure your dog has enough mental stimulation and exercise, as destructive chewing is often a sign of boredom or anxiety.

Question 8

My dog is scared of other dogs — can that be fixed?

Accepted Answer

Fear around other dogs is very common and can be significantly improved with gradual, controlled exposure at a pace the dog is comfortable with. A structured training plan can help build confidence and change the dog's emotional response.

Question 9

Can all breeds be trained the same way?

Accepted Answer

The core principles of positive reinforcement apply to all breeds, but some dogs are more food-motivated, more independent, or more easily distracted than others. Training is adapted to suit each dog's breed traits and individual personality.

Question 10

Isn't using food in training just bribery?

Accepted Answer

A bribe is offered before a behaviour; a reward comes after, reinforcing something the dog has already chosen to do. Over time, food is gradually phased out and replaced with praise and play, so the dog learns to respond reliably without always expecting a treat.

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