Dog Training Tips: Easy Ways to Teach Your Dog Good Manners

Got a pup who drags you around the park or barks at every passerby? You’re not alone. The good news is that most behavior problems have a simple fix if you know where to start. Below are the most useful tips you can try right now, whether you’re dealing with a puppy or an older dog.

Stop Pulling on the Leash

The first step is to make walks enjoyable for both of you. Grab a lightweight, non‑tight harness and keep the leash short enough to guide but loose enough to avoid choking. When your dog lunges forward, stop moving instantly. Wait until the leash slackens, then step forward again. Repeating this “stop‑and‑go” pattern teaches the dog that pulling doesn’t get them anywhere.

Reward calm walking with a quick treat or a cheerful “good job.” Keep the treats small so you don’t overload their diet. If you prefer no treats, use a happy voice and a gentle pat. Consistency matters—everyone in the household should use the same method, otherwise the dog gets mixed signals.

For longer walks, add short “focus” drills. Call your dog’s name, wait for eye contact, then reward. This builds the habit of looking at you before moving forward, which cuts down on pulling without constant stopping.

Calm Barking Quickly

Barking can be a nuisance, but it’s also a language. First, find out why your dog is barking—strangers, boredom, or a sudden noise? Once you know the trigger, you can address it directly. If it’s a passerby, practice a “quiet” command. When the bark starts, say “quiet” in a calm tone, wait for the pause, then give a treat.

If your dog barks out of excitement, give them a “settle” cue like “down” or “place.” Place a favorite mat or bed ahead of time, point them to it, and reward calm behavior. Over time the dog learns that being quiet earns a reward, while barking gets ignored.

Sound‑based tricks also work. Some owners use a short, distinct sound—like a clicker or a canned “shhh” noise—to interrupt the bark. Pair the sound with the “quiet” command and follow up with a treat. The dog soon associates the sound with stopping.

Remember, never shout at a barking dog. Yelling only raises their arousal level and makes the bark louder.

These two core areas—leash pulling and barking—cover the most common frustrations. Combine them with daily short training sessions (5‑10 minutes) and you’ll see progress fast. Keep sessions upbeat, end on a positive note, and don’t forget to give your dog plenty of playtime and mental stimulation. A tired dog is a well‑behaved dog.

Got other training challenges? Try breaking them into small steps, rewarding each success, and staying consistent. With patience and the right approach, you’ll turn chaotic walks and noisy outings into calm, enjoyable moments for you and your furry friend.