[westopher]

I agree with skinny. A lot of people in my "dog circle" do not approve of his dominance techniques, and believe that it results in pent up aggression in dogs, in some circumstances. However the people that believe that tend to think under no circumstances is punishment an option of any kind. However, I don't believe thats entirely realistic. However I do believe in positive training methods and the "no free lunch" program as mentioned above. I strongly suggest working with a professional at the beginning, especially if its your first dog. Not only for the dog, but for you. Your understanding of a dog is helped tremendously when someone with experience can explain what it is that makes dogs tick, and why they do what they do.