When we correct our dog, there's no need to have a high energy, intense correction if, for example, a low-key, verbal "Hey, stop it" will work. We want to use the least amount of correction that'll get the job done. If that first low-level verbal correction doesn't get it, then we quickly take it to the next level. Let's say your dog is digging in the trash. You could try to distract him with a simple "Get outta there". If that works, give a little praise (like "good boy"), then redirect him. If that first little correction doesn't get his attention, next comes something like "Hey!". If that doesn't work, you must physically approach him with an even louder "No!", or a loud handclap with a simultaneous "Hey!". Ascending volume and your approach to get in his "space", sends a message about your intensity (and your rank). The dog with the more intense energy will be the leader of your pack (this obviously should be you!). You're trying to get just a slight break in the behavior. So the very instant he stops and looks up at you from the trash can, and you get that break, you must flip the switch so to speak, change your tone to a positive one and redirect him. The best thing to redirect him to is to come to you for affection, or for a puppy maybe a toy. If you get in his space and he's still not responding, you should take it to the next level. The next level in this scenario means a little peck with your fingertips anywhere around his neck. This communicates mama's nip, and at the same instant you give the peck, say "no!" If this doesn't work, next comes a literal grab of his neck skin (scruff). But again, as soon as you see him concede to your will, you must switch to a praising mind set. And this is how we condition our dog to obey: Not only are our boundaries right on time, more importantly, our praising is too. 

Dog's Best Friend