Training - which means more than doing tricks - begins the moment we get the dog, which is today. We have a full plan set out to establish a strong relationship, which then underpins everything else. As Stan says, they are dogs, not 'fur babies', and need strong leadership and guidance, routine, discipline, and structure. Fun comes along with all that.
The dog needs to know to be well mannered, obedient, and well socialized, and life is then good for both the dog and me, family members, and anyone who comes to visit.
I need to bring out all my latent, well hidden, Alpha male tendencies...