![1. Who's the Boss?](https://www.readersdigest.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dogonbed.jpg)
1. Who’s the Boss?
Let your pet know who the boss is from the start. Establish the rules and follow them consistently.
![2. Avoid the Wrong Situations](https://www.readersdigest.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/baddogs.jpg)
2. Avoid the Wrong Situations
If your pet demonstrates poor behavior in certain situations or environments, avoid those situations as much as possible.
![3. Mind Your Dog](https://www.readersdigest.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/baddog4.jpg)
3. Mind Your Dog
If you keep a close eye on your pet, you’ll quickly learn what it needs to be comfortable and cared for.
![4. Confine Your New Pets](https://www.readersdigest.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/baddog5.jpg)
4. Confine Your New Pets
When you get a new pet, make sure you supervise it closely during training and restrict its access to a small area of your home until properly trained.
![5. Reward Good Behaviour](https://www.readersdigest.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/8_3_1_0_0.jpg)
5. Reward Good Behaviour
Encourage and reward good behavior.
![6. Provide an Alternative](https://www.readersdigest.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/food_1.jpg)
6. Provide an Alternative
Correct bad behaviors by providing your pet with alternatives (e.g., swap a toy for your favourite tennis shoes or a chew stick in lieu of a table leg).
Photo: iStock
![7. Use Positive Reinforcement](https://www.readersdigest.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/baddog3.jpg)
7. Use Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is good. Never reprimand your pet physically or force it to follow your commands, as this may lead to fear and aggression.
![9. Socialize Gradually](https://www.readersdigest.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/istock_000016792133xsmall_3.jpg)
9. Socialize Gradually
Slowly socialize your puppy exposing it to other people, animals and environments so that over time, it becomes comfortable with its living situation.
![10. If All Else Fails, See an Expert](https://www.readersdigest.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/floorrub_1_0.jpg)
10. If All Else Fails, See an Expert
If your pet continues to demonstrate serious behaviour problems, seek the counsel of your vet or a veterinary behaviorist.