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A major component in successful training is the equipment or the essential dog training supplies that you use.
There are many types of collars, leashes, muzzles, and crates.
Use the information below to help you gain an understanding of their uses, then determine the type that you think will be most beneficial and comfortable for your dog.
COLLARS
There are a variety of different dog training collars available. Choose the one that is most appropriate for your dog and his needs.
FLAT OR BUCKLE COLLAR
This type of collar is fit around the dog’s neck. These are available in a variety of materials such as nylon, leather, and cloth.
This collar is good for basic restraint for dogs that do not pull forcefully on a leash when walking. If he pulls too hard on the leash, he will choke or gag against the force of the collar.
If you need to train your dog not to pull on a leach, this is probably not your best collar.
HALTER OR HEAD COLLAR
This type of collar is fitted on the dog’s muzzle and neck. It basically serves the same purpose as a halter on a horse, meaning when his head goes in one direction, his body will follow in the same direction.
The head collar does not use very much force so there is very little pain for the dog, yet there is a maximum amount of control so the dog will move in the direction you want him to.
MARTINGALE
This is a slip collar that looks like a typical collar yet it can only be tightened to a certain point. This way, the dog will be comfortable, but it will also give the owner a fair amount of control.
This is a very easy collar to fit. It can either be slid over the dog’s head, or it can snap around the dog’s neck.
CHOKE COLLAR
A choke collar is a training collar that should only be used for extreme cases of aggressive dog training. This collar tightens around the dog’s neck when it is jerked. The tension is released when you let up.
A choke collar can be very dangerous if it is not used properly. If you choose to use this type of collar in training, it is essential that you know how to use it and that you use it with the utmost care. If you don’t, you could traumatize and hurt your dog.
HARNESSES
A harness is a device that wraps to the dog’s body, with the leash attached at the top of the dog’s back at the shoulder blades. This is different than a collar because a collar only controls a dog at the neck or head.
A harness distributes the dog’s pulling force evenly across his chest and shoulders, which can actually allow the dog to pull even harder.
There are also no-pull harnesses which puts pressure on the dog between his armpits, or the area between his front legs and chest when the leash tightens. This can cause abrasions on the armpits if it is not fitted properly.
LEASHES
A leash is simply a length of material that attaches to the dog’s collar or harness. It is used to restrain the dog and keep him safe. There are a wide variety of leashes to choose from.
Leashes are available in several different materials, including:
- Chain: This is almost impossible for a dog to destroy and it is fairly inexpensive. However, it is heavy and it can be uncomfortable for the owner if the leash hits him or wraps around his leg.
- Cotton webbing/rope: This is light in weight, very easy to handle, and very inexpensive. However, it is easy for dogs to chew through and it can callous the owner’s hand.
- Leather: This is a fairly sturdy leash that is easy to hold, especially as it softens over time with use. However, dogs can easily chew through it and it can be more expensive.
- Nylon: This is very durable and it is quite difficult for a dog to chew through. They come in a variety of weights and thickness. These are the leashes that come in many colours and patterns and they are relatively inexpensive.
MUZZLES
A muzzle is a leather or wire restraining device that fits over the dog’s snout to prevent him from biting. A muzzle is useful if your dog is in pain to keep him from lashing out and biting.
Muzzles come in a variety of sizes, so if you have the need for one, make sure it fits your dog appropriately.
CRATES
You will find that crates are a major component in your training efforts, particularly house training.
There are many types of crates on the market to choose from. Most are either wire or plastic. Wire crates are durable and allow for plenty of ventilation.