Dog Training Devices

Dog handlers are always on the look out for new dog training devices. There are many such devices on the market today, some ethical, some not so ethical. These dog training devices are to be used as tools, not as a substitute for the trainer's expert knowledge.

It's important to make sure your dog is in good health before embarking on any training program.

Leashes

Leashes are usually made of nylon or leather and come in a wide variety of designs and prices. The shorter style is usually the best for close in training and propper control of your dog. Longer, extendable leashes tend to give the control to the dog. The trainer needs to be in control at all times, so these are not a good choice for most dog trainers.

Collars

Dog collars come in a variety of buckle, snap, nylon, leather combinations. Provided the snaps and nylon are good quality they can be fully strong enough for even large dogs. Make sure they are adjusted carefully, though, so they don't slip off easily when the dog moves it's head backwards toward the ground if trying to escape.

Spiked collars and chokers are not recommended as these can easily damage a small dog's throat. Even larger dogs with very strong neck muscles have been known to have their tracheas badly damaged by these dog training devices.

Clickers

The clicker is made of plastic and metal and held in the palm of the trainers hand. It's an excellent dog training device for use where there is plenty of background noise as it emits a loud clicking sound when pressed and immediately gets the attention of the dog.

Depending on how the dog has been trained, the clicker can be used to get the attention of a distracted dog, or to get the dog to commence a routine or program.

Muzzles

In the long term, muzzles should not replace the patience and perseverience it takes to make your dog obey the no-bark and no bite commands. In the short term, they may be necessary for particularly aggressive and difficult to control animals.

Vests and harnesses

Vests and harnesses can be ideal for the trainer to better control larger or more exuberant dogs. There is no excessive pressure on the dog's throat so the dog feels no discomfort. However this can be counter productive as it limits training to positive re-enforcement and as they were originally designed for guide dogs, they can actually encourage pulling, rather than decreasing the urge.

No-bark collars that give a short electric shock to the dog, or those that emit a chemical spray, electric fences to keep dogs enclosed, are all available but these are as much control devices as dog training devices.

Love and respect, patience and perseverance are the main dog training devices that a good handler knows are the most effective. Without these the other tools are useless. If you train your dog through fear and aggression you will finish up with an anxious, aggressive, uncontrolable animal.