Puppy Psychology

Dogs don't feel human emotions nor do they understand English. They understand love, repetition, consistency and tone of voice. You and your family are its new pack. I'm not suggesting you start acting like a dog but don't ruin your dog by humanizing it or treating it like a baby. What I mean to say is: There are no bad dogs, just bad owners that don't realize dogs can't read minds and they can't tell you what they want. Over time, your habits will be reflected in your dog so be patient and think through what you're goals are before you begin teaching. Discuss with your family the commands you want your new puppy to learn and rules it will live by and as a family, stay consistent. This is the golden rule to having a well trained happy pet, especially in families with young children.

Moods & Tone of Voice

Dogs don't understand English but they do understand your moods and tone of voice. They can even feel your stress through the leash when you walk them. As you get to know your dog you'll be able to see if it “senses” your emotions so do not confuse it by playing sarcastically.

If you're happy your dog will learn than tone. If you're sad or upset, it will try to comfort you or make you happy as it would do to the pack leader. Be very aware that your sadness or anger is not directed at your pet when it's trying to comfort you. That's confusing to a dog as it would be confusing to a child.

Your tone in these situations is key and it's a primary reason dogs respond differently to male and female voices. The lower “baritone” in a males voice makes a dog think it's the dominant pack member. The higher pitch in a woman's voice makes a dog think it's happier and more playful. To a dog, dad is the rule giver and mom is the softy which is why most women have more trouble gaining a dog's respect and thus a harder time training a dog.

Ladies don't despair and don't take it personally. Dogs are instinctual not rational. You'll have to work harder to stay consistent but in time, your dog will understand repetition and consistency from the entire family, even children.