Dog obedience is directly related to the respect a dog has for its master. An owner who showers his or her dog with affection and rewards for simply existing will not earn the dog's respect. The dog may like the owner, but it will come to see people as a means to an end. A respectful dog, on the other hand, considers its master's pleasure to be an end in and of itself.

This is not to say good masters do not play with their dogs or provide them with a good life. If a certain breed of dog requires an hour of exercise each day, you have an obligation to your pet to walk, jog, or play ball with it each day. But the games you play with your dog should be initiated by you, not the dog, especially early in the puppy's life. The dog should know that you, as the master, will provide him with everything he needs, so long as he is obedient and follows your lead.

Dog Obedience Training Followed by Play
When training your puppy or dog to, "Come," he may stop short of you by four or five feet, wagging his tail as if to say, "Catch me!" If you oblige, you are cutting the training session short to follow the dog's commands. Dogs realize this and begin to think they can tell you what to do. Rather than play chase with the puppy, stay still and convince it to come to you. A good time for play is immediately after the training session.

As a dog owner, think of yourself as the Godfather. The Godfather was consistent in how he treated people and acted benevolently to those who showed him his due respect. Before the Godfather granted a favor, people had to pledge their friendship and loyalty. When you accept a dog into your household, you should be the same way. Be gentle, kind, and persuasive. Offer your dog friendship, but never for free. Of course, when dealing with your dog, giving an offer he can't refuse never has anything to do with violence or physical harm. An offer your dog can't refuse is a tasty treat!