Dog Training Equipment to Consider

We’ve covered what we consider to be the essential dog training supplies in part one of this article. But there is more dog training equipment you should consider using.

Clickers and Crates

Many trainers use a whistle or clicker as a foundation tool in dog obedience training. Clicker training can be very effective and they aren’t expensive.

We also believe that a crate is a very important accessory for your dog because it is her space and when used properly, a place she can go to get some rest or relax. It is also the most effective training aid in house breaking a puppy or adult dog. Dogs are den animals which makes a crate a natural piece of dog training equipment. They may seem a bit pricy, but they’re worth every penny. Not just because of the quality of life it means for your dog or the efficiency it brings to dog training, but also because of the damage you may avoid by letting her roam around the house when no one is there. (During the puppy stage.)

Muzzles and Halties

Muzzles are not harmful to a dog, and it can be a good idea to help your dog become comfortable wearing one. She won’t need to wear it all the time, but situations may arise where a muzzle can be useful. Vets and groomers sometimes use muzzles to prevent fear-biting. Muzzles can also help socialization by preventing a dog from biting a new animal or stranger.

A halti is another piece of training equipment you should consider. This accessory looks like a muzzle, but it isn’t. It fits around the snout and head of the dog and attaches to the collar and the leash. If pulling is a problem your dog is developing while on the lead, a halti is an excellent tool in controlling her.

Those are really the only items you should consider as at least highly desirable dog training equipments (the essential ones being a collar, leash and training treats). But of course, there are many other products on the market as well.

Other Types Of Dog Training Aids

The market is flooded with products that can help make training easier. Devices that can be placed in your yard to discourage excessive barking are becoming more popular today. These devices rely on high-pitched sounds to correct a dog when he barks.

If your dog is a habitual chewer, anti-chew products can help. A spray known as bitter apple is commonly used to keep dogs from chewing up furniture. Dogs dislike the taste of the spray. You can spray it on your furniture or carpet. Bitter apple spray can also protect your dog from himself. If applied to his legs, it will keep him from creating sores by chewing on or licking himself.

Dog repellents have also become popular. Dog repellents are sprays that can be used to keep dogs away from certain areas. You can find sprays for indoors or outdoors. Certain types of repellent use a pheromone that will keep your dog from relieving himself in certain areas. If there is a specific place in your house where he commonly has accidents, you may want to try some of this. Repellents are also used to keep dogs off of furniture and out of flower beds.

Specialized Equipment For Agility Training

Of course, dog training equipment doesn’t stop at just basic dog obedience. Agility training is a whole new level becoming very popular as a recreation activity for dog and owner. Agility training is not part of the scope of this article, but you will need a considerable amount of equipment if you want to get involved. The basics include:

• A-frame. This is a set of wooden or plastic planks that make the shape of the letter A. It is often the first obstacle a dog trains on because it is easy to teach.
• Jump. A major part of agility training involves jumps. A jump can be adjusted for the height of your dog.
• Tunnels and Chutes. These are fabric tunnels that your dog will run through. They can be straight or curved.
• Pause tables. In agility courses, a dog is required to pause on specific platforms.

Agility training can be expensive, because of the amount of equipment required. Dogs love it because it’s good exercise and quality time with their pack leader (that would be you!). What dog doesn’t enjoy running at full speed or leaping into the air?

Regardless of the type of training you do with your dog, you will want to invest in the proper supplies. Dog training equipment will increase the effectiveness of your training and make the whole process easier. There are many items out there but your own comfort level will determine what you buy. The essential supplies don’t cost much at all. 

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