Discipline is a very important element of proper upbringing. It represents mental (or psychological) encouragement to act and behave properly. It is not the same as training as many think. It is consisted of rules: what is allowed and what must be executed, what is not allowed and what is forbidden. You must not wait for dangerous situations and then remember that it will be smart for the dog to listen. Discipline is every single moment we spend with the dog when we praise it, forbid something to it, allow it to do something or correct it. In order to survive, animals need discipline.
Regarding that domestic dogs origin comes from wolves, they have a need to live in community – a pack. Hierarchy is necessary, as well as leader is. The leader provides safety to a dog which makes avoidance in behavioural problems possible.
Basic rules that should be followed
1. Do not let your dog dominate over other dogs. There are more or less apparent signs that show that your dog is doing so. It is not only a huge part of discipline, but also respecting other dogs and owners as a part of an etiquette.
2. Do not let your dog stand beside you while you eat, let alone giving it food.
3. It is necessary for your dog to have its spot. It does not mean it should not freely move around your home or yard, but to know where it can completely relax. This is a place where it should sleep as well. The owner should decide where that spot should be, not the dog.
4. Never hit the dog! It will make it insecure and will listen to you out of fear not out of trust. Do not use the fear as a tool or method of discipline.
5. Never yell at the dog! It makes it insecure. Shouting brings restlessness.
6. Do not feed your dog while being outside.