Many dogs grow up without rules or boundaries. They need exercise, discipline and affection in that order.

Dogs in America get more affection than women in most Third World countries.

Dogs seek attention from you. But by paying them that attention when they want it, you're reinforcing the bad or hyperactive or anxious behavior that you're trying to avoid. Practice - no touch, no talk, no eye contact - and see how you fare. You might be surprised at how quickly the dog settles down and looks to you as his pack leader for direction.

I do think there are some dogs - although it's very, very rare - that do have to be kept away from all other dogs and all humans except for the one strong pack leader whom they trust. But I think I've run into less than a handful of dogs that were like that in my entire career.

Huskies get in trouble. Huskies are well-known to be escape artists. Why? Because they were bred to go long-distance. They're not bred to be in the backyard and just look beautiful because they have blue eyes.

Many dogs grow up without rules or boundaries. They need exercise, discipline and affection in that order.

It's not the breed that makes a good companion. All dogs are great companions.