Does your dog steal things and run through the house, running right past you with that "ha ha look what I've got, catch me if you can" look in his eyes? He has learned what gets your attention and he's doing it.

He knows that playing with his own toys doesn't get the same reaction, but pick up something of yours and the game is on!

Dogs love to be chased and quickly learn to initiate a game of chase by grabbing socks from the laundry, a Kleenex out of the trash or shoes from the closet. They don't care that you're chasing them screaming "bad dog!" They have your complete attention and they love it! Playing with their toys never gets such a reaction from you, but it should.

If your dog has something that you don't want him to have, don't chase him down to take it away. Quickly grab one of his toys and pretend that the toy is the most exciting thing in the room. Squeak it, toss it in the air and make a big deal over the toy. Don't pay attention to your dog. Just have fun with the toy.

Soon, your dog will come over and want to join in on the fun. When he does so you can trade him for the object that he has.

Choose one of his toys to initiate the chase game. When you see him with that toy, playfully chase him around the house pretending you want to take it away from him. He will learn that the toy now initiates the chase game and not the socks.

You will really surprise him if when you take something away from him, you give it back! If you find your dog with some paper that you don't know what it is, you take it away and see it is not important to you, and then give it back to him. He might shred it or even eat it, but it won't hurt him.

By doing this you will make it more likely that your dog will give up something he has. Set him up by leaving something that is not dangerous in a place where he will find it. Playfully take it away from him and then give it back. Empty water bottles, paper towel tubes and old grocery receipts are safe things for you to use.

Dogs crave attention, and being yelled at is better than being ignored. Instead of focusing so much your attention what he is doing wrong, give him attention when he is doing what you like.

When you see him playing with his toys, take a few minutes and join in on the fun. When he is looking out the window and not barking, praise him and give him some attention. Your dog will repeat the things that get your attention, so make sure you give him attention when he is doing things you like!

Tip of the week: Dogs do things that get your attention so pay attention to the good things! Be consistent and watch the change take place. Bark questions to: Canine Companion, 11652 North - 825 West, Huntington, IN 46750 or email info@caninecompanion.us.

Canine Companion conducts dog training classes in Fort Wayne, Huntington and surrounding communities and behavior consulting nationwide. Along with their combined 30 years experience and endorsement by national organizations, the trainers are all graduates of Purdue University's DOGS! Program and have earned the title of Certified Pet Dog Trainer through the Association of Pet Dog Trainers.