In other words, those Christmas puppies can be well on the way to becoming loyal, affectionate, and obedient family pets by Easter with a modicum of persistence, a change in focus, and a determination to save the relationship. Control The best control over the dog and family relationship is the selection of an appropriate breed or mix for the family character and circumstances. However, if a mistake has been made in the selection of a breed, all is not lost. With flexibility and determination, there's no need to give the pet away or to doom him to the backyard or the animal shelter. It is up to the adults in the family to exert control over the relationship with the puppy.
Control is physical and mental.
Physical control involves guiding the puppy to do the right thing or placing him in a position to do the right thing. It does not mean spanking him with a hand or object when he makes a mistake. Mental control means developing a relationship with the puppy that clearly places you in the role of leader. If you have mental control, the puppy looks to you for approval and obeys your commands. Control is established in a number of ways.