If you have decided to add a new puppy or dog to your household, then you have probably also already gone out and bought everything you need -- such as food, toys, bowls, leashes and a collar -- so that when you bring him (or her) home, everything will already be ready. But, have you also checked in to much needed dog training courses?

The answer to this question is probably "no", as many people do not think about obedience classes as a necessity for bringing home a new dog. Unfortunately, this is the mistake many make which can lead to an unhappy relationship between your new pooch and your family, especially if your four legged friend is quite unmanageable behaviour wise. That is why dog training courses are fundamental to the health and overall happiness of you, your family and the newest member of your family -- your new dog. There are several different types of dog training courses that you can choose from in order to help you with the discipline of your new dog. Each one has many benefits and they each work in slightly different ways as far as the reinforcement of the trained behaviour is concerned. The best way for you to determine which type of course is best for you is by doing a bit of research in to each one in order to understand any pros or cons each may have for you and your dog.

For example, one of the most popular types of dog training courses that people choose is the positive reinforcement/reward method. This type of training allows the dog to receive a combination of rewards -- such as a suitable doggie treat (you can get some very healthy ones at your pet store) plus your always-ready enthusiastic praise when they follow the commands you teach them, such as sit, stay, lay down and heel and many more.

Other types of dog training courses include the highly controversial choke collar training in which the owner would snap the leash and apply pressure to the dog's throat when an undesirable behaviour is performed. This could severely injure a dog's neck and trachea so should only be used by professional trainers in extreme circumstances.

There is also head collar training, which is more humane than the choke collar and can be used to steer the dog, gently, towards the desired behaviour.

Then there is the promising click training method -- a newer method that has shown great results when learned properly; basically, a clicker is used along with giving a treat when a command is obeyed. Then the treat is eliminated over time leaving only the clicker to reinforce your dog's behaviour.

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Barry Sowder owns an older rescued terrier-mix, Spencer, and a young pure-bred Collie, Olivia. Find the best dog training courses for you and your dog at his blog, available at: => http://www.dogtrainingcourses-1.com/