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Pet, Obedience Training Here are the DIY Basics on obedience training your pet.

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Figure A Figure B Figure C  WINDOWS MEDIA VIDEO Watch the Video

When properly trained, pets can provide endless hours of enjoyment for everyone. To ensure your four-legged friends are well-behaved, try these few simple tips.

• Keep a regular feeding, drinking and potty schedule (figure A). Train your puppy by going to the same spot every time and giving a command like, "go potty."

• For cats, who are not natural litter box users, gently guide front paws in the litter to demonstrate the correct motion (figure B).

• It's normal for dogs to jump up when greeting people. Modify "Fido's" behavior by teaching him to sit. Hold a treat close to his nose and move it backwards above his head. As he bends say, "sit" and reward him with the treat (figure C).

  Note: Use exact commands every time.

• Barking often occurs when dogs experience a change in their environment. Distract your pet with a change of scenery.

  Note: Never yell "shut up" at a barking dog. The dog sees this as you barking and will continue.

By being consistent, your pet will be a well-loved and well-behaved member of the family!