There was a time when negative dog training was often used. Rather than only rewarding the desired behavior, punishment was given for incorrect behavior. Canines are naturally inclined to work, and most have a strong desire to learn as a way to work for a reward. This is why positive obedience training with dog treats is a far better approach.

Human Training First

Believe it or not, much of dog training has nothing to do with the dog and everything to do with the human. How you react is vital to how quickly your pet will learn. If you are slow to reward dog treats after a major success, then your pet may not pick up on why he or she was being rewarded. On the other hand, if you reward too often, your pet may not feel the need to work as hard. Find an ideal balance between praise and dog treats. The food reward should be saved for significant advancements while praise and petting can be used for each small step achieved.

Be Patient Every Step of the Way

Remain completely patient and avoid reacting negatively out of frustration. If your pet doesn't seem to understand a step, never take it as a personal attack. Dogs are not vengeful, and as humans we are emotional. We often displace our own emotions by applying them to our pets. The reality is a dog that seems stubborn may not understand because you are moving too quickly. Take a break, gather more dog treats and start again.

If things have become frustrating, and your pet doesn't seem to get the command, it is time to take a few steps backwards. Return to more basic steps and see where your pet excels. Once he or she seems to be getting it, you can slowly progress again. Make a point to offer dog treats as you did the first time through, especially when steps that your pet didn't understand are successfully executed. Never push yourself and your pet forward when he or she is not making progress.

Avoid Fear and Aggression

Dog treats, praise and petting are the only tools you really need to tell your dog he or she is doing the right thing. Negative behavior should be replaced, not punished. Do not hit or yell at your dog if he or she does something wrong during training. This can cause your pet to fear you. He or she may not understand the behavior was incorrect. As far as they can tell, you randomly punished them. Continuing down this path can lead to aggression, should your pet feel the need to become defensive.

That is not to say if your pet does something wrong you should not react. Bad behavior should be immediately stopped by removing your pet from the source, accompanied by a firm, deep "no." Many pet owners find that this method is extremely effective and far more desirable than hitting or other forms of punishment.