Dogs learn constantly, but they may not be learning the things you planned to teach. In the old days even a generation ago many dogs were allowed to come and go as they pleased. Suburbs were less crowded, no one ever heard of neighborhood covenants that limited pets and fences, pooper-scooper laws were few and far between, and litigation was the exception rather than the rule. Today it is a challenge to keep dogs at home, especially since the canine penchant for digging, disobeying, making noise, soiling yards, wearing paths in the lawn, escaping through open doors, and other inconvenient habits put a damper on the fun of owning a pet. Obedience training is the only way to ameliorate the impact of these annoying canine activities.
Dogs are pack animals.
If they are not taught from an early age that humans are the pack leaders, they will jockey to gain that position for themselves not because they are necessarily bullies, but because nature abhors a vacuum. So, when you pack the kids off to school this year, make sure to take time for Ranger's education as well. Puppy kindergarten, basic obedience, a refresher course all are tools to help build the best relationship possible with the family pet. Tuition is modest, supplies are minimal, and the rewards are immeasurable. You may print or download this material for non-commercial personal or school educational use.