What is it about people that makes so many of us inclined to open our mouths when we see something wrong while thinking silence is golden when we see something right?

This tendency makes it much harder for pets to learn exactly what it is we are trying to teach them. Ideally, your pet should hear "yes" 10 times to every "no."

When your puppy is not pulling on leash -- praise! When your kitten is not jumping on the counter -- praise! Your pets will seek negative attention over no attention, and the behavior that gets your attention will be repeated. Every time you see your pet doing something you want -- such as sitting, looking at you, waiting quietly -- praise, praise, praise!

Animal behavior experts Susan and Roland Tripp are the authors of "On Good Behavior." For more information, visit their Web site at AnimalBehavior.net.