Cesar Millan, better known as the The Dog Whisperer, is known for offering tried-and-true dog-training solutions to frustrated, struggling pet owners. Among his most helpful tips are the following 10 that are sure to have even new dog owners leading the pack in no time. 10 Best Dog Training Tips!

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1. An exercised dog is a trainable dog

The dog whisperer often meets pet owners who have failed to provide their dogs proper exercise. In his book, A Member of the Family, Millan explains that dog training becomes virtually impossible without a daily exercise routine.

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2. Just like kids, dogs need a schedule

Like a temper tantrum-throwing toddler without structure in its life, a dog without a set schedule is bound to become irritable and act out. Dogs need set times for interaction, exercise, feeding and training.

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3. Leadership is the foundation of training

Dog training relies on the presence of one pack leader. A dog lover who assumes the role of pack leader will have successful training sessions.

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4. Half the battle takes place in your mind

You must have unwavering mental strength and confidence to gain the trust and respect of your dog during training sessions. Your dog can sense if you are uncertain or fear it, so you must control situations by maintaining the role of an authoritative pack leader.

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5. Discipline and punishment are not synonymous

Invest heavily in dog training, and there will be no need for punishment. It takes time and effort to see real improvement in your dog’s behavior. Don’t let your frustrations distract you from your goal to properly and successfully train your pet.

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6. A dog is a dog

Treating a dog in a humanized manner is perhaps the cardinal sin dog lovers commit. Love your dog, but do not treat him as a baby. Only dogs that understand their role within a family unit are actually trainable. Upset the role identification, and problems are sure to ensue.

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7. Dogs need boundaries

Follow Millan’s example, and set boundaries in your home. If your dog’s barking at company bothers you, make this a focal point of your training. If a dog’s presence in an off-limits room annoys you, focus on this aspect of the dog’s behavior instead.

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8. Consistency is key

It is easy to let a dog get away with eating off your plate “just this once,” but in so doing, you are setting a dangerous precedent. How is the dog to know that tomorrow morning this is no longer acceptable behavior?

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9. Get all family members on board

It takes a household to properly train a dog. You, your partner and all household members need to be on the same page when it comes to acceptable and unacceptable behavior. While there only is one pack leader, the other family members still are dominant to the dog, and they must treat their relationship with it as such.

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10. Start today

It never is too early or too late to start working with a dog. Whether your canine companion is a puppy or a more mature dog, commit to start today and achieve with your dog what Millan refers to as “balance between people and dogs.”

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