This method demonstrates the fundamentals of dog training, and how to use them to teach this trick. If you already know how to train your dog but your dog is having trouble with this specific trick, check out the sticky notes method below. Choose a specific reward that the dog enjoys, such as a ball, a plastic bone, or a smelly treat. Show the dog the reward at a time when the dog is attentive, but not overly excited. Command the dog to sit.  If the dog is too energetic, it won't focus on the lesson. Tire it out a little before training, or choose a slightly less exciting reward. If your dog doesn't respond to "Sit," teach your dog that command before you teach it this one. Start waving the reward very slowly on a horizontal line 30 centimeter (11.8 in) in length (about the length of a ruler). This shouldn't look like you're saying no or scolding the dog; it should look as if you're trying to hypnotize your dog. As soon as the dog follows the treat back and forth with its whole head (not just its eyes), reward and praise him. If the dog doesn't follow the movement, let him sniff the object, then try again.  Clicker training makes it much easier for the dog to understand your behavior. The basic idea is to use a "clicker" (or any short, sharp noise) immediately when the dog displays the correct behavior. Do this in addition to giving praise and treats. If your dog doesn't respond to the moving treat, try snapping your own head to one side. If the dog mimics you, say "good head shake!" and give it the reward. This may take several tries or even several training sessions. If the dog still doesn't understand what you want, you may have to wait for the dog to shake its head naturally. Immediately reward the dog for this behavior. Choose "Head shake!" or any other verbal command, but stick to one exact choice of words. Give this command at the same time you wave the treat or move your own head. As before, reward the dog and praise it as soon as it responds correctly. Keep the first session to ten or fewer repetitions, to avoid making the dog tired or bored. Repeat the training daily, but stop each session as soon as the dog starts to tire, looks distracted, or resists your commands (typically within a few minutes). As you continue the daily training sessions, your dog should respond more consistently. Give him time and patience. Some dogs learn much faster than others. End sessions on a positive note whenever possible. Praise the dog for its efforts. As your dog learns the command, repeat it with just a hand motion and a verbal command, without holding a treat. When your dog successfully responds, reward it and praise it as usual. When the dog consistently responds to this, start giving it just the verbal command. Continue the training until it responds to the command alone.

Summary: Follow these instructions if you are new to dog training. Get the dog's attention with a reward. Wave the reward slowly back and forth. Move your own head, if necessary. Add the verbal command. Train in short sessions. Train the dog to respond to the command alone.


Begin to think about all of the reasons why you like your friend and want to date them.  This is crucial so that you can articulate this to them and so that you don’t make a mistake and ask them out just because you are lonely.  Make a pros and cons list for asking your friend out.  For example, a pro might be that you both have very similar interests and have a good time together. A con might be if they are selfish or your general fear of ruining the friendship should the relationship go awry. Ask your friend if they have some time to talk to you about something.  Find a time that works well for the both of you.  Meet in a place that is quiet so that others won’t overhear the conversation.  You can also have this talk over the phone if you are nervous. Consider writing a letter if you feel that this will help you better articulate your thoughts. Now is the time to open up to your friend about your feelings.  Be very honest and genuine with them and try not to be overly dramatic.  Talk to them about how your feelings for them have evolved from friendly to romantic. You might say something like “This has been on my heart for a while.  I think you are so wonderful and to be honest, I like you as more than a friend.” After you have told them how you feel, allow them some time to also express themselves.  Avoid preparing your next response to them in your head; truly and actively listen and hear them.    You might want to say something like “Well, now you know how I feel.  What do you think about us going out some time?” Answer any questions that they might have. If they respond positively to your talk and indicate that they like you or would want to explore a romance, too, then ask them out.  You might say something like “So, I was wondering, will you go out with me this Friday night?” Recognize that this all may feel very new to your best friend and they may need some time to think about whether they are interested or if they want your relationship to change.  Assure them that you don’t need an answer right now and are willing to wait on them. If your friend agreed to a date on the spot, then great!  Or perhaps they did not give you an answer yet but you feel that they will go out with you.  Take some items to plan out a fun date for the two of you that aligns with your interests, but is still romantic in nature.  Perhaps you might plan a romantic picnic in the park or a date to the movies. Base the date around something that you are both interested in or something that your friend really likes, such as a concert of their favorite band. Since this is a new experience for both of you, consider choosing an activity that you have both been interested in trying, such as the new mini golf place that just opened.

Summary: Gather your thoughts. Set aside some time to talk. Tell them how you feel. Listen. Ask them out. Give them some time to think. Use your common interests to create an ideal date.


Once you’ve completed all of your school visits and trial classes, it’s time to go over everything you’ve learnt and decide which school is the best fit. Consider your goals, the teaching style and the logistics of the classes. At the end of the day, it’s important to trust your gut and pick a school where you feel comfortable. If you’re ready to sign up with a school, take some time to sit down with them and discuss payment options. Some schools require you have a membership to their school while others may ask you to sign a contract for a specified amount of time. Ensure you are comfortable with the financial burden of signing up.  Many schools will offer a shorter contract or longer trial period. If you’re not ready to commit to an annual membership or contract, enquire about signing up for a shorter amount of time to try out the school first. Ask about ending the contract or membership early. In case something happens that causes you to need to put your martial arts training on hold, such as an injury or loss of job, ask how that would work. Once you’ve made the decision to sign up, it’s time to get ready for your first class. Ask the school if you need to come prepared with a uniform or any specific equipment or supplies. You should bring a bottle of water, towel and change of clothing. If your school doesn’t require a uniform, it’s a good idea to wear loose fitting workout clothing.  Most martial arts are practised in barefoot but ask your school if you need to bring special footwear. After your first class or two, take some time to reflect and decide if the class is what you expected and if you're enjoying yourself. If the class turns out to not be what you're looking for, meet with your instructor to try and find a solution.
Summary: Trust your gut. Discuss finances. Prepare for your first class. Evaluate the experience after your first class.