Begin training your dog on a leash, without using the Alpha^® training system. After the dog shows a grasp of the commands "heel," "sit," and "here," you can begin training with the collar and the leash.

During the initial stage of collar introduction, the dog learns that collar stimulation means the same thing as a tug on the leash. At first, the dog may be alarmed by the electronic stimulation. The key is to be patient and consistent and not to start off at too high of an intensity. Be fair and consistent, and use repetition and praise when using the collar as a training tool.

If the dog does not respond to the stimulation level you have selected (Choosing the Correct Intensity Level), increase the stimulation one level at a time until you achieve the appropriate response. After you achieve the desired response, you can lower the stimulation level as long as the dog maintains consistency.

As the dog becomes more proficient with the commands, you can begin to introduce distractions, such as rolling a ball in front of the dog or walking him in the presence of others.

After the dog begins to respond consistently to the command during collar training, you can remove the leash and train with just the collar.

Eventually in most training situations, your commands will not require stimulation to be given with the command. You should only use stimulation when you need to repeat a command because the dog did not obey the first one.

As the dog becomes better trained, you can decrease the use of collar training. Continue to have the dog wear the collar until you feel certain that it is no longer needed to reinforce known commands. Abandoning the collar too early can lead to problems in the future.