Dog & Puppy Training Equipment
Dog Training Equipment
In order to determine the proper equipment needed to help train a dog, you first must have a clear idea of just exactly what is going to be the goal of the training. To train a dog simply to be a good household pet is not going to require an excessive amount of special equipment, but to train the dog to be a K-9 attack dog or seeing-eye dog is going to require quite a bit more. The basics for training include the collar and the leash. Most novice pet owners do not take this as serious as they should and tend to select a collar more for its visual appeal than for its training potential.
There are several varieties of collars designed for training. They range from simple snap-on collars to sophisticated electric collars. A general rule of thumb for training collar selection is to select the gentlest collar that accomplishes the goal. Several types of collars, including choke collars and prong collars can cause harm to the dog if not used properly and by an experienced trainer. The leash is another basic equipment item that is often carelessly selected. The leash is the connection between you and your animal and a little investment in the proper size and style of leash for your particular training needs will pay off handsomely.
If your training goal is more complex, the type of equipment that is needed is a bit more complex. Equipment of this type is not usually found at smaller local pet shops, but most be purchased or ordered from a firm that deals in advanced dog training aids. Some examples of this type of equipment are bite sleeves and harnesses. Personal protective gear is another example of equipment needed when dealing with advanced attack training, or even when dealing with overly aggressive dogs.
Reward and trust are the important elements of dog training, and because of this toys and treats could be considered training equipment. Tug toys and bite toys are popular items for rewarding dogs with play and provide exercise. Dog treats that another way of rewarding and reinforcing good behavior. It is important to remember that dog training is not something that is done once, and then is finished. Dogs change and training is an ongoing thing and the need for proper training equipment will always be there for the pet owner. The best advice that can be given about the purchase of equipment to aid in training is to make sure you are getting the best available. A properly trained dog is worth at least that much.