Dog Training – What Equipment Do I Need?

Having the correct equipment when training your dog is essential. It needs to be fit for purpose to get the best out of your training session. So what is the best equipment for your dog for training?

Whatever equipment you use with your dog, do check it regularly. Check:

• for wear and tear.

• that it still fits correctly. This is especially important with growing puppies.

• for signs of chewing, which could weaken it.

Essential equipment for all dogs:

• A normal collar with either a buckle or clip. It should not have any tightening action, such as a choke or half-check chain.

• A lead. A lead of 4-6 foot is ideal. If it is shorter than this, you may find that your dog will pull more, as he cannot get away from the tight feeling. If it is longer, it can be difficult to control your dog. Most people prefer nylon, leather or canvas leads. Chain can be used, but this can be very uncomfortable.

• Some form of poop scoop is also essential each time you take your dog out.

Alternative equipment:

Head collars work on a similar principle to a horse’s head collar, in that they control the head. They are extremely useful with dogs that pull, jump up at passers-by

and are more difficult to control. It will not teach your dog how to behave, but it will make it easier to control him while you are teaching. Many dogs are not impressed at first and may scratch and shake their heads. Take your time and introduce it gradually, following the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Harnesses are favoured by many people when walking their dogs. It means that if the dog does pull, it will not hurt his neck. However, many dogs can pull more strongly

with a harness, and dogs who are required to pull, for example, sled dogs and tracking dogs, would wear a harness for this purpose.

For dogs who pull, there are relatively new types of harness available. They are designed to help while teaching a dog not to pull. They work by putting pressure in a different place when the dog pulls, and therefore he cannot lean into it as he does with a collar. An extending or retractable lead consists of a box which you hold, with a line that extends as your dog pulls. There is a brake to stop. These are useful when you are in a situation where your dog can have more freedom, but cannot safely be off his lead. Please be careful — if they are used near traffic, dogs can still be involved in accidents.

A long line, or old washing line, can be useful when your dog can have some freedom but is not safe off the lead, or when teaching a dog to come when called. Some people find it difficult to use as the excess lead can get tangled. Take care with big or strong dogs — consider wearing gloves to avoid rope burn on your hands. It may be beneficial to use under guidance from an experienced trainer.

Poop-scoop, plastic bag etc. Never leave home without these. Even if you don’t need them for your dog, you may be able to donate one to another owner!

The author has been writing articles for many years. Check out his website on home stereo amplifiers and learn about the best Onkyo home theater systems on the market today.

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