Wake up and walk: Most dogs are wired to be active. When they’re not, pent-up energy leads to whining and chewing. Take your dog on a 45-minute walk or run before work; if you can, hire a dog walker for midday. “A dog that’s tired doesn’t bite, dig holes or bark.”

Touch, but never hit: Don’t be afraid to use touch to tell a dog he’s broken the rules: Millan pulls at the tuft of the neck and gives a gentle nudge – not to hurt the dog, but to surprise and correct.

Be the boss: “Everybody wants to be a dog’s best friend, but dogs don’t follow friends; they follow a leader,” says Millan. Establish leadership from the start: head and shoulders up. “Remember the popular people in high school? They walk in the room and people move. Act like that.” Walk ahead going out the door; only let him bound ahead if you give the OK.

And be firm: Dogs need consistent structure and routine. If your dog bites or is overly aggressive, seek help from a dog trainer.