The key to success with any dog is showing it in a way that it understands that it doesn't have to make decisions and look after you
. That way you'll end up with a happy dog and a healthy relationship. One way to do this is to call the dog to you instead of going up to it. If your dog won't come then ignore it and walk away.
Start right away with expected behaviours. If you don't want the dog on the furniture, then don't let it on them from day one. It's tempting to be compassionate and "bend" the rules when they're first settling in, but just remember that if you've adopted your dog from a shelter then you've already been exceptionally kind - now it's the dog's turn to return the favour.
Once your dog has settled into its new surroundings make time for your new friend. Dog training is all about repetition, so you really need to work on it every day if possible. Coming from a dog shelter can be a traumatic experience for many dogs so this is an ideal way for you to have some one-on-one bonding time with the new addition to your family.
Every dog loves food so it's a great idea to have some doggy treats on hand to help reward your newly adopted dog for good behaviour. You'll find your new dog particularly responsive when you use treats randomly. Vary the rewards that your dog gets and don't give out treats every time it does something - keep the dog guessing and you'll really start to see results!
Many dogs also love non-food rewards. Discover what your dog really appreciates and start using this to reward good behaviour. Remember that every dog is different. It could be that your dog loves chasing a ball as a reward or it could be that verbal praise and a tickle tummy is the ultimate prize!
If you think you're ready to provide a loving home for a dog then maybe you should consider adopting one of the thousands of abandoned dogs currently caged up in shelters around the country. There is sure to be one nearby desperately looking for a loving owner like you. Often these dogs will appreciate the food, shelter and love more than a dog that has always had things pretty good.