"Seriously, they are both animals that have behaviour patterns which are instinctual but can be easily read and understood, thus making dealing with them an easier task," says the former glam model. If you want them drooling and eating out of your hand, what works for the four-legged companion works equally well for the two-legged variety, she tells the Sun.

"They both want what they can't have and place a high value on things they don't get often. They both love treats. If you chase either of them, they run away. The way to their heart is through their tummy. And both will drive you crazy sometimes."

Right from Day 1, says Staples, establish rules of conduct, insist on respect and loyalty, and allow him to be alpha male - at least some of the time.

A sexist and manipulative concept? It's reminiscent of The Rules, a book advocating playing hard to get and getting guys to heel and roll over by rewarding them for good behaviour.

Well, laugh it off, says Manhattan psychologist Dr. Sharon Wolf. "Too often we view relationships with anger and hostility. This is just a playful and humorous way to look at relationships."

The couples' counsellor adds rewards are beneficial in any relationship when seeking to reinforce positive behaviours, and gentle corrections are key.

And it's always good to set boundaries and not to alter your entire life for any companion, agree both authors. Wolf has written numerous books, including How to Stay Lovers for Life and Guerrilla Dating Tactics.

Meanwhile, Staples' pages instruct women not to pick either "breed" based on looks alone and to make sure he likes children. Oh, and remember, it's tough to teach old dogs new tricks.

Staples adds that if you show them any interest, they'll take off - ignore them and they try everything to get your attention. "Treat them well and they take you for granted, treat them mean and ... well, you know the rest."

Well, human relationships are much more complex than that shared with any cute canine. "Dogs give a man unconditional love and companionship and they require little in return - unlike a boyfriend or girlfriend," says Dr. Debbie Magids.

"It's funny because there are some truisms in the way stereotypes are made, but the truth is men and women are a lot more alike than we would like to think. We may have been socialized to behave differently, but underneath it all we all love, hurt, feel vulnerable, insecure, inadequate. We just show it - or don't show it - in different ways.

"We need to give men a little more credit than that. They need to be held accountable for their behaviour; they have brains and minds and emotions like women do!"

This is cache, read story here