The first thing to remember is that training takes time and patience but the more you train your dog, the faster he’ll learn. Make it fun and make it quick – five to ten minute sessions three times a day should do it. These top tips will get you off to a good start:

• Dogs can and should keep learning throughout their lives so I believe you should begin training at about 7 weeks of age when their brain is sufficiently developed and then keep it up
• When training, you must deliver feedback within one second of the behaviour. For example you should reward a dog for sitting the moment he puts his bottom on the floor. Be patient! Dogs need time to learn
• Give your dog a treat for doing something right and he’ll be more likely to do it again. And it doesn’t always need to be food; find whatever motivates your dog the most. It could be a toy or just plenty of praise
• I try to make training as fun as possible. Dogs get bored easily and you need to keep them interested. And I always end a session with loads of praise

For more handy training tips why not download the ‘Benefits of Training’ and ‘Commands’ podcast?

You want your dog to be happy and healthy so I’ve come up with a few starters to keep him in terrific shape.

• I suggest you always feed him high quality food, your dog’s digestive system is very sensitive and easily harmed. A healthy and varied diet will keep your dog energetic and make his eyes and coat shine
• I recommend a mixture of high quality wet and dry dog food, supplementing this at times with some chicken and vegetables to provide a variety of taste and texture
• Adult dogs do best when they are fed twice daily – in the morning and late afternoon. Feeding only once a day can lead to hyperactivity and bloating. Some dogs will also be ravenous and irritable if they have to wait 24 hours between each feeding
• Just like humans, dogs need their teeth looking after. Brushing them using a soft toothbrush and giving him dental chews will keep his teeth and gums healthy
• Never feed him chocolate, chicken bones, onions, raisins, grapes or sweets or cat food
• Regular trips to the vet will make sure he’s kept fit and healthy. And as a responsible owner, make sure you get pet insurance to avoid any unexpected expensive vet bills

For more essential health and feeding advice why not download my ‘Feeding Time’ podcast?

Signs of good health:

• Bright, clear eyes that are free from discharge
• Cold, damp nose with no significant discharge
• Clean ears with no unpleasant odour or visible wax
• Shiny coat
• Clear skin without dry or irritated patches
• Firm, well muscled body
• White smooth teeth
• Pleasant smelling breath

For more essential advice on health and feeding check out my book “Fat Dog Slim - How to Have a Healthy and Happy Pet” available in all good book shops.

Who can resist a wide-eyed puppy staring up at you just begging to be brought home? Before you decide to take on such a big responsibility you’ll need to ask yourself a few questions.

• What kind of dog do you want? You’ll need to consider size, how much exercise he’ll require and its temperament
• Will you be able to spend enough time with your dog? During the puppy stage you will need to be with them nearly all the time for reassurance and companionship. Even when he has reached adulthood he shouldn’t be left alone for long periods of time. Four to five hours is the maximum and even then some dogs cannot cope with that length of time
• Dogs need regular exercise and that means a couple of walks and a decent run every day. Will you be able to provide him with this?
• Have you got another pet or have children? Make sure you know your new arrival will fit in as everyone may not be as overjoyed to see him as you

For more essential advice on caring for your puppy check out my book “It’s Me or the Dog” available in all good book shops.

Going for a walk is one of the best things about owning a dog. And the good news is that it’s great for both of you. But before you grab the lead, here are a few helpful hints.

• I recommend that adult dogs have three short walks to relieve themselves and a good long walk or run in the park on top
• Make sure that the collar and lead fit properly so that you have control of your dog at all times
• Always take a supply of bags to clean up after your dog
• In cold weather, always wipe your dog’s feet after a walk to get rid of any road salt. This will prevent your dog from ingesting it when he licks his paws
• Make sure he knows that you’re in control while he’s on the lead. Teach him good lead manners and reward his calm behaviour with a good run in the park

For more hints and tips on exercising your dog why not download my “Walkies’ podcast?

Making sure you have pet insurance is essential. If he does get injured or becomes ill not only will pet insurance soon have him back on his paws but it will also take care of the expensive vet bills. Direct Line pet insurance not only covers your dog against accident or injury but it comes with some great benefits too.

• Cover starts from just £8 a month for dogs or £6 a month for cats
• Direct Line can even pay the vet directly
• 12 months free membership of the missing pets bureau
• 10% online discount

Click here to buy your Direct Line pet insurance now