How do you earn a dog?

Learn him how to do the basic commands and listen and such, best way is to do this by rewarding him with cookies or other dog snacks when he does it right and keep on repeating that.

How old is your Lab? That makes a big difference. I used to show my Lab in obedience trials. We started with puppy training 3-6 mos. All positive, play style training. Sit, down, etc. Work in very short spurts, 10 mins., 4x day. Then after 6 mo's. serious training. Again, short periods 15 mins. a few times a day. Tons of praise. Some treats. You may need to go to a class at your local club or rec center. Use a leather lead and choke collar. I had to go to a prong collar for a very short period, but she learned. She's passed now and I really miss her.

You use treats for good behaviour, necver smack a dog. Yes, start with the basic commands, sit - hold the treat in front of the dogs nose and slowly raise it above ite head, the dog should automatically sit, say sit while doing this and give the treat when he does.

i really don't know..i really do not care about dogs that much...but i do agree with the rewarding

Mik, I'm sure you and your Lab will both have a better relationship once he's trained. He sees you as his pack leader, which is a big responsibility. He's looking for consistancy, guidance and love from you. Visit my website (can be found on my profile) and go to the Additional Resources page. I have links to a Labrador site, and a link farther down of a dog training site. Good luck!