Dogs do not come with an instruction manual around their necks. Dogs need time, patience, and understanding. Therefore new owners need information to train, and help cope with the difficulties of the newest member of the family.

Common mistakes in raising dogs:

1. Not enrolling with the dog in "obedience school".

In any good school you can expect your dog to learn basic commands and proper behavior. "Heel!", "Sit!", "Stay", and "Come!" are all examples of these commands. The dog will learn how to associate with other animals and people. Don't make the mistake of sending your dog to obedience school alone. If you do, you will have a dog more obedient to the teacher, instead of you.

2. Self-training using improper techniques.

Physical punishment and yelling are not good methods of training. The best methods are stimulation and reward for good behavior. This way the dog will be motivated to carry out commands because it knows it will receive attention and maybe a yummy treat. For this to work, it is important to be patient and consistent.

3. Not researching breed characteristics.

When choosing a dog, do not judge by appearance alone. Take some time to do research on several breeds, to find one that will make a good match for you and your family. If you have a small apartment, for example, a large dog may be a poor choice.

4. Leaving your dog alone in your yard.

Dogs are social animals and naturally live in packs. Spend plenty of time with your dog outside. Play together, make your yard a fun place, not a doggie prison! If your dog is not active enough, is bored, gains weight, gets sick, gets into all kinds of mischief, barks too much, or bites: It is your job to understand why it is happening and make it better.

5. Not giving the a dog a place of its own.

Dogs need an area that is only for them. When it gets nervous or scared it will have a place of refuge. Make it a comfortable place for your dog. It doesn't have to be fancy, just comfortable. Just like people, every living creature has times when it just wants to be left alone to sleep or relax

6. Letting the dog think it is in charge.

The leader in your house is you, not the dog! Your dog will receive food and attention when you decide. Not whenever it wants. Your dog must earn its rewards, they are not a gift.

7. Making 'goodbye' a big event.

Do not make a big deal out of having to leave the house. This is not the time to lavish extra attention on your dog. It will only be aggravated after you leave. A good idea is to leave your dog with fresh food and water, and maybe a toy.

8. Feeding your dog 'people' food.

Constantly feeding a dog table scraps can be very unhealthy for dogs. They are not recycle bins! There are many very good dog foods available - buy those for your pet. People do not eat dog food, why should it be the other way around?

9. Having unrealistic expectations.

Though at times it may seem like it, dogs are not human. Dogs need logical and consistent training to live well with people. They do not understand when you explain to them 'why'. When your dog misbehaves a simple "Don't!" or "No!" is enough and suitable.

Avoiding these mistakes will assure you and your dog live a long and happy life together.