Dog Training Tools
Dog training tools are instruments used to train your dog quickly and with little effort. There are many more dog training tools available to make training easier and life more enjoyable for your dog.
If you’re in the process of training a dog, you might observe yourself in the market for some dog training tools to make it easier for both you and your dog.
Dog training requires the right tool to make the process easier and more successful. From essentials to optional supplements, having the right dog training tools are essential for successful training. In this blogpost, we will explore the seven best dog training tools for dog lovers to manage their dog related tasks easily.
Benefits of Using Dog Training Tools
Training aids such as treats and clickers speed-up training. This assists your dog in understanding what is expected of it, which is essential for shaping your dog’s behavior.
Treats, crates, leashes, and harnesses can keep your dog safe during training as they impose restrictions on where your puppy can go.
Best Dog Training Tools
We’ll discuss here seven best dog training tools in more detail.
1. Treat Pouch
Always having treats on hand means more opportunities to reward good behavior from your dog. Treat pouches provide an easy, suitable way to store treats and deliver them quickly to your dog, which can be critical for difficult skills, correct training commands, and during agility work.
2. Training Clicker
A clicker is a small device that fits in your hand, producing a clear-cut sound when pressed. You can use it to mark desired actions in your dog. Clicker training, as it’s known, is a fast and easy method of dog training.
Clicking signals to your dog that they’ve done something good. We have a complete guide on clicker training, but below we’ll discuss the basics of using a clicker:
Stage 1: Charging the Clicker
Clicking means nothing to your dog — to give the clicker power, you need to “charge” it. Basically, this means teaching your dog (training lingo, “building an association”) that the sound of the clicker is as rewarding as a tasty treat.
So, start by just clicking the clicker and rewarding your dog. Then do it again. And again, and again. Repeat for good measure.
Stage 2: Training with the Clicker
Once you’ve charged the clicker, you can start harnessing its power and magic! Clicker training allows for exact accuracy in training your dog, ensuring that your dog knows exactly what they’re being recognized for.
For example, if you’re teaching your dog to sit, you’d click the clicker at the exact moment their bump hits the ground. Then, follow up with a delicious treat to reinforce the behavior.
3. Dog Crate Training
Crate training can be beneficial if you plan on traveling with your dog or having them go along with you at any time. Some dogs also prefer having their own space, and crates can serve that purpose.
A dog’s crate plays a significant role in their training. Crate training is one of the fastest and easiest ways to provide domestic training to your pet. Crates allow you to confine your dog to a safe space when you’re unable to supervise them fully. This prevents your dog from engaging in undesirable behaviors, such as inappropriate chewing and other destructive behaviors.
4. Chewing Toys
Chewing toys are excellent tools for directing your dog’s chewing habits when problems like chewing on furniture or inappropriate chewing arise. Not only that, but chewing toys also help mentally stimulate your dog.
They also provide an outlet for your dog’s chewing desires. By providing a variety of chewing toys, including some that are specifically designed for chewing, you prevent your dog from developing the habit of chewing on inappropriate items. Just be cautious about the chewing toys you choose for your dog and supervise them when they have a chew toy or bone.
5. Mat Training
A training mat is an optional in dog training tools for those who want to teach their dog the “place” command through mat training. In other words, it’s the spot where your dog can go whenever you need it to stay put, like when you’re arranging dinner or greeting people at the front door.
Training with a mat can also be beneficial if you plan to take your dog to cafes, bars, or other public places where you want them to return and relax.
Your dog’s training mat doesn’t have to be fancy—a simple ‘place mat’ will do wonders.
6. Best Leash Training
Using a long leash when training your dog can be instrumental as it allows your dog some freedom outside while still giving you control. For general training and especially for leash training, a leash of 4-6 feet is recommended.
When working with a young dog, you should spend more time tethering them inside your home. Puppies often get into trouble when they have too much freedom around the house and are out of your sight. If they are constantly supervised (especially in the initial stages), you’ll greatly reduce the chances of accidents and problems. While this may not be permanent, it can be extremely helpful in the early stages!
7. Muzzle Training
A muzzle is like a mask placed over a dog’s mouth. It’s usually used to prevent biting. However, people often see it and automatically assume the dog is aggressive.
There are many misunderstandings about muzzles and dogs’ mouths. It signals, although incorrectly:
- Aggression
- A biting issue
- Cruel owners
These misunderstandings are further perpetuated in popular media like movies and TV shows. They often show dogs with their teeth bared or growing, and the next thing you know, the dog is muzzled.
Conclusion
Training your dog can become more effective and enjoyable when you have the tools at your disposal. Whether it’s using treats and clickers or having crates and chew toys each tool plays a role in shaping your dog’s behavior and ensuring a positive training process. By integrating these dog training tools into your training sessions you can effectively communicate with your dog companion, reinforce behaviors and establish a secure learning environment. Keep in mind that every dog is different so don’t hesitate to try out tools to discover what works best for both you and your beloved pet.