Ask Jennifer Messer Q: Like any “expectant mom” I tried to read up on puppy training so I would do things right. But the more I read, the more confused I got. The books all seem to contradict each other! Now I don’t even know where to start to teach Lucy something as basic as “sit.” Do I push her bottom down? Use a clicker? Use treats? Please help. Completely Confused in Calgary A:I hear you, C.C. dog training literature is a maze. The good news is that what looks like an endless array of methods for introducing basic commands actually boils down to a few simple techniques. The most common formula for teaching a new obedience behaviour is asking the dog to do something, helping her do it, then rewarding her. Think of it as ABC: Ask, Behave, Congratulate. Traditional training used chokers, shoves, and intimidation for compliance, but gentler ways, such as using a food lure at the dog’s nose to get her to sit work just great. The hand motion above her head quickly becomes a
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