Training
A six to eight week course in obedience training pays huge dividends. You establish a rapport with your dog as he/she learns what to expect from you. We train, not so that we can become the alpha member of the pack, but so that we can have a loving relationship with our companion animals that is based on respect and trust. The aim is peaceful coexistence. Be patient! Give a little to accommodate his/her needs. Set up a comfortable environment so that the dog has a place to be close to you where you eat, where you watch TV or read, and most importantly, where you sleep. You may sleep through the time, but the dog is doing two things that are valuable to him/her. He/She is close to you and he/she can protect you. As a matter of fact, if you work long hours, this may be the only quality time the dog has.
Cut up beef hot dogs in small pieces and cheddar cheese in small cubes. Put these in baggies and carry them in your pockets. Every time the dog does something good or approaches doing something you want to encourage, give him a treat immediately ( within one second) and pair it with lots of verbal praise and pats. More then anything else, your dog wants to please you and gain your approval. The food reinforcements are needed only for two or three days. You and your praise are the reinforcement he/she needs.