Dogs are complex, people are complex. I think the most critical components of developing a rewarding and successful relationship with your dog are trust, respect, observation, in both directions. The dogs always observe us, and we need to learn to observe them as carefully, noticing the subtle things they are telling us. 

Your dog needs to know he or she can trust you. We all make mistakes, and dogs are expert at forgiving our mistakes. Dogs make mistakes, and we need to be capable of forgiving them. A foundation of trust is required to have a successful partnership. 

Effort is required. As you spend interactive time with your dog, you will find the relationship building, becoming much more fulfilling than you ever thought possible. Investment in the relationship is necessary, and very rewarding.

Our dogs are our best teachers. We learn from them by observing, listening, responding. We need to learn to be as subtle and as capable of being students as our dogs are. They are our best teachers. We need to be flexible and adjust to what works for the individual.  We can't assume that one size fits all.