Training devices for dogs now abound in the market, but people should not use them as substitutes for learning how to properly train your pooch. The tools mentioned below will help you go through the dog training process with ease and if used properly can accelerate your pet’s learning.
Before using any of these dog training devices, make sure that your dog is in good health – that is, he should not have twisted dew claws, ear diseases, skin sores, and other similar afflictions.
Training Clickers. These are compact hand-held tools that produce a loud sound when pressed and released. The click-clacking of this device calls the dog’s attention and is easily heard by your pet even when there are other environmental noises. This will help keep you from frequently giving voice commands, which can be extremely tiring.
It’s used as a “begin” sound for instances when your pet needs to commence a particular act or behavior. It can also be used as a “reward” sound if he has exhibited desirable behavior.
Dog Collars and leashes. There are many different types of collars and leashes sold in specialty pet stores – from simple 2-foot control leashes to retractable cord ones that can extend up to 30 feet. There are even designer collars for those who don’t mind lavishing their pets with luxury.
When training your dog how to sit or stay, the recommended leash is that which is about 2-4 feet long. The long, retractable leashes are used only if the trainer is okay with assuming the role of the follower. However, keep in mind that you, as the owner, should always be the “alpha male” instead of your dog.
Collars should be made of high-quality materials to prevent snapping or breaking, especially when used with large dogs. You can find collars made of strong leather and even nylon, with buckles and snaps for adjustment.
There’s also the highly controversial choke collar – a type of collar that tightens around the animal’s throat when the owner tugs at the leash. It would only loosen when the trainer releases the pressure. Detractors feel that this is more of a torture device rather than a tool for behavior modification, but many say it’s an effective and humane device when used properly.
Make sure that it fits right – there should be room for you to slip two fingers under it while there’s still about 2 inches of chain left over. When you do a correction, pull the collar and give a firm, “No!” but release the tension as soon as it is applied.
If the choke collar is not worn correctly, it can choke the dog and can injure even a large dog’s trachea. These devices should not be used on pugs and other flat-faced dogs as these could harm them.
Dog Vests. These were initially designed for aid dogs like seeing-eye dogs. The original designs were meant to encourage pulling, which is the opposite of our aim in dog training. Today, vests are still widely used by trainers who feel that they need more control over their wards, especially large dogs. Using vests and harnesses would minimize constant pressure on the dog’s throat during training.
Dog Muzzles. These should only be used to control short-term barking and biting. When improperly used, your pet would not be able to learn how to control his barking otherwise.
Many other dog training devices are readily available in large pet supply shops such as no-bark collars, citronella sprays, and electric fences. A dog owner must not use these tools indiscriminately and should always train the dog with love and respect.
