Reviewed by Dr. Becker

While we're inclined to correct our dogs for poor leash behavior, it's often the person at the other end of the leash who's to blame. How would your dog rate your walking performance? How many of these mistakes are you making that may be depriving your dog of the many benefits a walk offers?

They may drool over the flavor, but they're beset with problems galore — ranging from pathogenic bacteria, to choking and GI blockage hazards that could prove fatal. They're best left on the store shelf, to spare your pup this agony and rescue your wallet.

Sure you want a well-mannered pet. But there's an even more compelling reason to teach these three commands to the point of instant obedience. They can truly mean the difference between life and death. Just be sure to keep these three special words in mind during every training session.

If your dog's breed is one of the six predisposed to this syndrome, your vet may be watchful for these subtle signs. Some dogs with the condition have no obvious symptoms at all, but if you have a physically active pet, you may notice these emerging warning signals.