Dog Training Tools
You Don't Have To Be An Expert

Dog training is often the one thing that keeps people from bringing a dog into their home when in truth it should be the one thing that encourages them to bring a dog home and make them part of the family.

What I mean is that so many people are intimidated by the idea of having to train or work with a dog. Many people simply believe they do not have the skills or the proper tools it will require to adequately train a dog so that it will behave properly in there home. This just isn't true.

In fact, I recommend that you be the one to work and train with your dog as this helps to form a strong bond with your dog. If you need help from a trainer that's absolutely find but be sure to be a big part of the training.

Although there is always extreme cases of dogs that are difficult to train, in general, dog training can be easily accomplished with a little time, patience and the right information. You just need to be willing to work with your dog. To get started you will need a few simple tools that will help you and your dog learn in both an easy and comfortable manner.

When considering which tools you want to choose, it's important to consider your dog's personality. Try and choose a training tool that matches your dog's personality and also focuses on what you are trying to teach your dog. If you are unsure, look for a training class that you and your dog can take together in your area or visit with your veterinarian about training.

Begin by choosing your dog a dog collar. For starters, most states require that your dog wear a collar with the proper tags on it but for your purposes, you will want to be able to attach a leash to the collar.

Often for dog training, it's beneficial to buy an actual training collar. This will help you in training your dog.

Some professional dog trainers recommend a choke chain or prong collar but if you are thinking about using either one of these, it's really important that you know how to use them properly. You absolutely can injure your dog with this type of collar and that's the last thing you would want to happen.

The next item you need is of course a dog leash. Take your time choosing a leash, because this is a training tool you will be using often. There are many types of leashes available but when you are just beginning your training don't use one of the retractable leashes.

Try starting with a basic leash that is six feet long. Be sure that it is sturdy and has a solid, strong clip to attach to your dog's collar. There may come a point in your dog training that you will need an additional leash but for now the six foot leash is the most important.

There are many different types of dog training methods available to choose from but there a couple that are generally accepted as the more popular. They are correction based dog training and positive dog training.

Now many people find this type of dog training harsh and some even claim it's violent or abusive and I suppose it does depend on who's administering the training and it can depend on somewhat of a fear tactic.

However, if used correctly and without abuse, it can be quite effective. I would like to add a suggestion though. You need to do more than just stop after showing the dog your disapproval of a potty mess in the house. Give them another option. Quickly grab a paper towel or old rag and pick up some of the mess. Put your dog on the leash and take them outside to the area you would like them to use as a bathroom area.

Now, let them get a quick sniff of the paper towel and then wipe it on the ground on the area you have marked for bathroom use. Then allow your dog to smell around and although they just went, see if they won't go just a little more. Then after a few minutes you may go back in and finish cleaning up the mess. Then set a timer of between and hour or two depending on your dog's bathroom frequency. Then take your dog back out to the area that you designated bathroom area and try to get them to go in that area again.

Keep repeating this for several days until your dog just automatically goes to that area for bathroom use. This gives them an exact spot that they know they are supposed to use for that function. Then there is no doubt where they are and are not allowed to go. There is no need to be abusive or scream or yell. A simple change in the tone of your voice will be quite effective. Also, do not hit your dog or jerk them on their leash in anyway.

Positive dog training is another popular training method that is often criticized because critics say you are just bribing your dog to obey you with treats and such. They claim they don't actually learn the actual objective but instead learn if they run outside and potty that they will get a treat as soon as they run back to the door. In other words your dog hasn't learned he needs to potty outside, just that he gets a treat.

I differ with that opinion in that if done correctly, what you are doing, is positive reinforcement and it works very well. Besides there are other training tools you can use besides dog treats. Many trainers will suggest you use a verbal affirmation like a clicker tool to let your dog know that they are doing what you want them to. If you do decide to use food, be sure to only feed small pieces so that you do not overfeed your dog and they stay focused on the task at hand.

Another choice for assisting with your dog training is using dog toys. Granted using a dog toy may seem like you will be encouraging your dog to play but actually dog toys can be incredibly helpful with your dog training process. For one thing, it gives your dog a much needed break from your regular training routine and allows them to work off excess energy.

You can also use a toy to help you work on a specific skill with your dog. For example if you are working on sit and stay, use their favorite toy to function as a distraction during the training process. This helps to teach your dog that no matter what they are doing, they need to listen to you when you give a command.

Dog training is absolutely necessary for your dog if you want to have a great relationship with your dog. An untrained dog will only lead to an unhappy dog and an unhappy pet parent. Just remember that hurting or abusing your dog to try and teach them will only teach them to fear you and not train them, you must use love and patience.

Remember to make it fun for both of you. It doesn't have to be an hour or two hour long training session everyday. Try integrating several short training sessions into the day with everyday things. It will be easier for you and your dog and your dog will be more willing to cooperate and learn.

The point is that with very basic information, anyone can train their dog the basic commands and teach them to have good manners in their home. It will also help strengthen the bond between a pet parent and their dog. It's also good to note that you don't have to teach your dog everything in a day or week or even a month.

Dog training is ongoing, and should be something you continue to work with your dog on occasionally even after they have mastered their commands.

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