Puppies are a pleasure to be around and to have. They love unconditionally, seeking your praise and love, just as children and even adults do. A puppy wants to please his master. He wants to make you happy because that is what makes him happy. Puppies are intelligent and can be taught different lessons and commands if you take the time to teach them.

You have to have patience and consistency. Teaching them commands the right way the first time will save both of you a lot of time and heartache (ok, mostly heartache for him).  Consistency means using the same phrases for the same commands. He isn't human, although he does have feelings. Still, he needs consistency and using the same phrases instead of changing them on him will make for an easier training period, and therefore a happier relationship between you as the owner and him as the beloved pet.  

Beloved works both ways. You are his beloved as well. When you use his name, he is going to react so make sure that you are talking to him when you say his name. It is not fair to talk about “Toby” and then get on to Toby for jumping up and coming to you. If you are talking about him in the third person, then make sure that either he can't hear you or that you refer to him as the dog or puppy unless you are okay with him getting excited and reacting to his name.  

It is child abuse to hit children. Did you know that child abuse laws are derived from laws forbidding the mistreatment of animals? Do not hit your beloved dog if you are upset with him. The truth is, your dog will know that you are mad without you having to raise your hand or an object to him. Walk away, take a breath, count to ten, then come back and talk to your puppy. He will react accordingly. All he wants is to know that you love him.  Kind of like a child, right? And like a child, he needs to be praised when he does something right as well.  

Having a puppy is a lot of responsibility, but it is also a lot of joy. By being consistent and loving, firm and friendly, you will build a relationship with your pet that can last for years and years. One of the greatest joys in life is love, for humans and for pets. The love you get from a puppy is a gift you will always treasure.