Nova Scotia dog trainer offers 5 tips to raise a happy rescue

A rescue dog specialist from Tatamagouche, N.S., has a fewtips to help owners raise a cheerful canine.

Rhonda Langille is a certified master dog trainer and canine behaviour specialist who says she has worked torehabilitaterescue dogs andtrainservice dogs for 45 years.

Shetravels around the Maritimes working with dogs andhas just published a book,Teach Your Rescue Dog to Come with a Wagging Tail and Happy Heart Every Time!

The proceeds will go to Homeward Bound City Pound in Dartmouthand Hope for Wildlife in Seaforth.

Owners of aggressive dogs should work with a dog trainer, she said.

But for all others, here are five tips that will almost always do the trick.

1. Patience and positivity

2. Show your dog love, love and morelove

But remember, the dog needs to respect you.

3. Follow through

When you've asked the dog to do something, follow through until it happens using gentle methods.

4. Use the focus command

Make sure you make eye contact with the dog and keep himfocussed on you.

5. Teach your dog that you two are buddies