Dogs need boundaries, just like us

Matt Rudd is right to be unconvinced by “positive-only” training for dogs (News Review, last week). All pets, whether dogs, cats or children, push boundaries.
They do so in the hope that they will be told that the boundary still exists, which gives them the sense of security they need.

If the boundaries are inconsistent, the pet grows up insecure and fearful of the world.
Discipline and reward, in appropriate measures, are the best way to ensure your pet’s happiness, a peaceful household — and grateful neighbours.
Michael Donkin, Longframlington, Northumberland

Who’s in harness?
Until recently dogs lived with their owners; now, for some, it seems to be the other way round.
I’d also observe that dogs were always managed with a