12 Rules Of Dog Training

John Devine

Dog training isn’t about magic tricks or quick fixes. It’s about creating clarity, building trust, and shaping a dog that is capable, confident, and enjoyable to live with. Over the years, I’ve distilled my philosophy down to twelve core rules. Whether you’re raising a puppy, living with a family pet, or working with a service or protection dog, these principles apply.

Rule #1: It’s never the dog’s fault

Dogs aren’t trying to misbehave. They simply know what they can or can’t get away with. If a dog is acting out, it’s not because they’re “bad”—it’s because the environment, leadership, or training hasn’t been clear or consistent. When we take responsibility for how we teach, we stop blaming the dog and start guiding them.

Rule #2: You can train a dog like a puppy, but you can’t train a puppy like a dog

Dogs are capable of learning differently than puppies, but the same foundational lessons taught in puppyhood often help with an older dog. The key difference is that puppies are not fully developed yet—they need shorter, simpler lessons and more patience, while adult dogs can handle firmer structure. Both benefit from clear communication, but you must meet them where they are in their development.

Rule #3: Giving boundaries is not being mean

Rules, structure, and boundaries are acts of love. Dogs thrive when they know what is expected of them and what is off-limits. Without boundaries, they feel anxious, confused, or out of control. Structure provides security, not cruelty.

Rule #4: All dogs need jobs—if you don’t give them one, they may find one you don’t want them to have

From chasing squirrels to destroying furniture, a dog without direction will create their own outlet. Every dog, no matter the breed, needs purpose. That “job” can be as simple as walking politely on leash, waiting calmly at the door, or carrying a backpack on a hike. Give them responsibility, and they’ll rise to it.

Rule #5: Timing is everything

A correction delivered too late or a reward given at the wrong moment can confuse a dog and slow their progress. Dogs learn through immediate cause-and-effect. Your success as a trainer comes down to split-second timing—catching the right behavior as it happens.

Rule #6: The 3 Ds: Distance, Duration, Distraction

Every command needs to be proofed against these three factors. Can your dog “sit” from 10 feet away? Can they “stay” for five minutes? Can they do it when another dog walks by? Training doesn’t end when a dog learns a command; it’s about reliability under all conditions.

Rule #7: Exercise is needed, but it’s not training

A tired dog is easier to live with, but exercise alone doesn’t create manners or obedience. Running a dog to exhaustion may burn off energy, but it won’t teach them how to behave in your home or around people. Training sharpens the mind, while exercise conditions the body—both matter.

Rule #8: Most problems are fixed with diet and training

Behavioral issues often have roots in two overlooked areas: poor nutrition and lack of consistent training. A dog fueled on junk food or left without structure is set up to fail. Fix what’s going into their body and what’s expected of their mind, and most “problems” disappear.

Rule #9: Walk your dog—you will both live longer

The walk is more than physical exercise. It’s bonding, communication, and leadership all rolled into one. A structured daily walk reduces anxiety, prevents unwanted behaviors, and strengthens the human-dog relationship. It’s good for your health too.

Rule #10: Crate your dog

A crate is not a prison—it’s a safe space. Dogs are den animals by nature, and a properly introduced crate becomes a place of security, not punishment. Crates prevent accidents, protect your belongings, and teach dogs how to relax and self-regulate.

Rule #11: Dogs are not children

Loving your dog doesn’t mean treating them like a human. They think, learn, and communicate differently. When we project human emotions onto dogs, we often create more confusion than comfort. Respect your dog for what they are: amazing animals who thrive with clear, fair leadership.

Rule #12: It is easy to like a well-trained dog

The best thing you can do for your dog is to make them enjoyable to live with. A trained dog is welcome in more places, trusted by more people, and ultimately given more freedom. Training opens doors and makes life better for both of you.

Training is not about dominance or gimmicks. It’s about clarity, communication, and commitment. If you apply these twelve rules, you’ll find that not only does your dog improve, but your relationship deepens. A capable, well-trained dog isn’t just easier to live with—it’s a joy to be around