If training your puppy or dog is on the agenda for the week, there are some essential training supplies you have to have in order to master proper canine obedience techniques. Check out our complete list of the things you will need, things that are nice to have, and things you can probably live without. Check out our list below!
Dog Training Supplies | 5 Must-Haves for Basic Canine Training
So, you’re getting ready to train your four-legged pal or perhaps, teach some new dog tricks. We’re excited for you! It’s always a good idea to train your dog as soon as possible so that they will be less likely to pose behavioral problems or become dangers to themselves and others. There’s a common assumption that training a dog only requires a dog, a leash, and a whole lot of patience—BIG MISTAKE! We’re here to help make your canine obedience training easier with this list of essential training supplies you should have on-hand before you start training. Here’s what you need:
1. Dog Leash
This is a must in dog training 101. During your training sessions with your furry friend, you will need to restrain or control movement. It’s easy for your dog to get distracted, so the leash helps to keep him focused, and prevent your little buddy from hurting others before he’s fully trained. Your dog should just be focused on you, without the need to wander around.
There are lots of different types of dog leashes. In picking a dog leash, ensure that it will feel comfortable in your hands as you hold it. Another thing to consider is the length of the leash. Make sure the length is just right — not too short and not too long, so you can control the leash without putting your dog in harm’s way. You might also consider retractable leashes, so you can figure out the perfect length of leash slack.
2. Dog Collar
Sure, the dog collar is used to attach the leash, but it’s also a must-have for pet identity. There are different kinds of dog collars on the market.The best one will depend on your dog’s behavior or what type of training your dog will need. What’s important is that the collar snugly fits the neck of your dog, without being too loose or tight. You might also want to consider getting a harness on top of a collar, if your dog is a bit more fragile, and not taking kindly to being pulled at the neck. Be careful to select a collar which closes around the neck, rather than a choker style collar. These choker collars can be a hazard to a puppy, as the dog is growing quickly and can get trapped in a collar which is too small for him.
3. Dog Crate
A dog crate will play a very vital role in housebreaking and potty training your dog. Keeping your dog in a crate helps prevent common behavioral problems such as destructive chewing and accidents in the home. When picking a crate, choose one with ample space for your dog to move around and stand in with ease. It is not advisable to put your dog inside the crate the entire day. The crate is just for training purposes only, and for night time sleeping to build your pup’s independence.
Once your dog has claimed his crate as his “house”, remember that it will be their “clean place”. This means that, as much as possible, your buddy will not want to pee or poop in the crate. So before putting your pet inside, make sure they’ve done the deed. Moreover, you might want to put dog toys inside his crate to prevent your pooch from getting bored…especially if you’ll be out for extended periods of time. A dog’s crate should be a positive, welcome environment and not be associated with punishment.
4. Clicker
Depending on what type of training your furry friend will embark upon, you may want to consider getting a clicker. This lightweight device emits a clicking sound that your dog will associate to a command! It is actually called clicker training and is very helpful for both you and your dog.
There’s a proper way to use the clicker effectively. First, you must always give your dog a treat every time you click. Yes, even if you mistakenly clicked it! To ensure that you’re not giving too many rewards, click only when your dog gives a stellar,treat-worthy performance! Another is that you should never use the clicker to get your dog’s attention; this will only confuse your dog. And to avoid further confusion, only use the clicker when teaching new tricks or behaviors. To read more about clicker training, click here!
5. Dog Treats
All dogs love treats, and it’s essential for bribing them to do tricks. There are all kinds of ways to keep your dog motivated, and we here at Pet Symptoms will always stand behind POSITIVE reinforcement.
Giving treats as rewards are highly advisable by almost all dog trainers and experts alike. It’s important, however, not to overfeed your pets with fatty treats. Too many treats can lead to dog obesity or worse, as it can affect their appetite habits that will prevent them from eating their actual, nutritious food.
Dog Treats can get expensive, so here’s a great video on making your own homemade, tasty, and healthy treats! These recipes from Rosanna Pansino are quick and easy:
Let’s strive to create a balanced, happy, healthy, and well behaved dog by training them properly and as early as possible. Make sure to stock up on the essential dog training supplies listed above before starting dog training. You want to make those training sessions count, right? So, whether you want to teach your pal potty training, obedience training, or crate training, these are the essentials you’ll need!
Are there any other essential dog training supplies you can add to the list? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!
