Some popular myths on the subject of dogs and their training...

Spayed bitches and castrated dogs put on weight...
The cause of obesity in dogs is overfeeding and lack of exercise whether neutered or not. Because of a change in hormone levels a neutered dog/bitch may need less food.

Using a choke chain will stop a dog pulling on the lead...
NO. It will just choke him. It may even cause him to pull more to get away from the discomfort.

When meeting a strange dog you should offer it the back of your hand to smell...
The best way to get bitten by a nervous dog. If he wants you to approach him, you'll know. Say Hi and tickle him under the chin. Never move a hand over the top of his head. If he doesn't want to be approached leave well alone..

You should take a dog's food away from him to make him more tolerant...
Would you tolerate someone removing your plate every time you sat down to dinner? Of course not. You may put up with it for a while but sooner or later you'd probably put their lights out!! Simply add something really delicious to his food whilst he is eating, such as a piece of cheese or liver. After several repetitions of this he will positively welcome any human hand near his bowl.

To gain your dog's respect and obedience you must show him who's boss by using force and confrontation...
ABSOLUTELY NOT. To the dominant dog this will be seen as a challenge, one that he will willingly accept and more than likely win. The submissive dog would become fearful and learn to mistrust you, making training virtually impossible. Pack leaders are obeyed and respected simply because they are the boss.