Article Documents Most Effective Training Methods for Pets
There are many competing schools of thought on training pets. Many types of training classes such as puppy socialization, agility and ring craft are in common use. Several types of training techniques (including positive reinforcement, negative punishment, and positive punishment) are popular.
Boosters of various training forms and methods have long pointed to theoretical advantages of their tactics. But rigorous studies into the efficacy of each technique have been lacking until now.
A paper in the November, 2008 North American Veterinary Conference Clinician’s Brief outlined one recent study. Here is what the study found.
Dogs trained with positive reinforcement showed significantly fewer behavior problems than those disciplined by other training aids [any form of punishment]. A fear of other dogs was significantly more likely in dogs whose owners used any type of punishment in their training. Dogs trained at home demonstrated significantly more problems than those that attended classes and home training was more likely to be associated with use of physical corrections and inconsistent interactions between dog and owner. Attendance at agility classes was significantly associated with reduction in problem behaviors.
The study implies that the first and most important step to training your pet (especially your dog) is to commit to a formal training program led by an expert. When selecting a program, choose one that focuses on positive reinforcement of good behaviors, rather than correction or punishment of bad ones.
You have questions. 
My Ridgeway hurt his leg around 3 years ago. I took him to a vet that did nothing for him. He kept putting him on all didfferent medicines. Finally I took him to a friends vet who took an xray and said he has arthritis. He gave me some pain pills and said to 1/2 a pill a day, that it would help with the pain. He loves to go for walks but really limps afterwards. Should I stop walking him or how far should I walk him? What is the best thing to do for arthritis?
I myself have arthritis, and when I walk it’s actually better for my pain. Sure, if I overdo it, I can be sore or stiff, but usually it’s not from the walking, but from weather change I feel the most discomfort.