Essential Dog Training Supplies
If you go into any pet store you’ll see there are an
unlimited number of dog training supplies available for every
kind of training. Of course, you can’t own or train your dog
without any tools. But you certainly don’t need everything you
see on the shelves! Here is an overview of the essential dog
training accessories you’ll need as well as some that aren’t
necessary unless you go to more advanced dog obedience
training.
Dog Collar
Even basic dog training requires some equipment. You’ll need
a collar, for one thing. For the most part, a simple buckle
collar will do. In some cases you may need a training collar to
help correct your dog if he insists on breaking rules. There
are many types of training collars. Electronic collars use a
small electric shock. Citronella collars spray a small amount
of citronella, which dogs hate, into the air. Some collars emit
a high-pitched sound that will discourage the dog from
continuing the behavior.
There are also simple choke collars if your dog is hard to
control on a leash. Remember that training collars should be
used carefully and never in a mean way. If at all possible, you
should focus more on positive reinforcement than on
correction.
In fact, we would suggest you don’t use any of these so
called training collars unless you are being coached and
assisted by a professional trainer. In terms of a dog training
accessory, the only type of collar positive reinforcement
training requires is a standard one.
Training Leash
Another essential dog training tool is a leash. You might
want a few different lengths. A shorter lead will give you more
control while teaching your dog how to walk properly on a
leash. A longer one will allow you to keep the dog within your
reach, while giving him the room he needs to move around.
Standard sizes for training and walking are 6 feet for a short
lead and 30 feet for a long one. For most training exercises,
you’ll want the long leash. Your dog has the room he needs to
obey your commands, but you still have control if he tries to
chase after distractions.
Dog Treats
An obvious dog training supply item is a treat. You’ll need
plenty of these for any dog obedience program both at school
and at home. And they don’t need to be junk – there are many
healthy and tasty treats in pet supply stores or you can make
your own. In our experience, most dogs will do back flips over
chicken dog pieces. An essential dog training item!
And that’s it. The only essential dog training supplies you
need. There are many other types of dog training equipment
available and in part two of this article, we’ll discuss some
of these. But the only must have dog training supplies are a
good collar, a leash and rewards!
For a complete dog training reference, we highly recommend
Secrets To Dog Training.
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