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The use of certain tools and gadgets for dog training is equally important as choosing the best dog breed for competitive training. Take this learning journey together with your pooch for stronger ties and a more trustworthy relationship.
With the wide selection of tools and gadgets in the market, we at UK Pets have listed down the most essential ones for dog training.
Basic Dog Training Tools
Are you new to dog training? Start simple with these basic dog training tools:
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Clicker
A clicker is used to tell your pooch whenever she exhibits desired behaviours. There are various shapes and styles of clickers. Clicker training your pooch introduces new skills along with marker words. Be sure to be consistent when using this method. In instances where you have accidentally clicked it, you have to give your dog a reward.
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Target Stick
Target sticks are very useful in teaching basic behaviours such as proper walking whilst on lead or responding to commands such as spin or bow. You can make use of a wooden spoon or serving spoon as DIY targets. If you wish, you can skip this equipment and use your hand as a target instead.
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Leashes
Leashes can be used both as a training device and a safety tool. It helps you teach your dog to have proper walking behaviour as well as keep him away from accidents or troubles without your access. There are four dog lead types with different uses that were discussed in our previous blog.
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Barriers
There are certain instances where you may need an area to safely contain your pooch away from danger zones such as stairs or the front door. Barriers can be in a form of crates, pet pens, and playpens.
TreatsIt is important to never forget treats. Rewards ensure your dog’s interest and motivation. Treats may differ according to the canine’s preference. Always prepare this prior to training and be consistent in giving treats for every job well done.
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Treat Bag/Pouch
Make sure to keep your pet’s favourite treats within easy reach by using a treat bag/pouch. This helps you easily provide treats for every desirable behaviour. There are treat pouches that have additional pockets with zippers where you can keep other essentials such as your mobile phone or clean-up bags.
Dog Gadget Accessories
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Wi-Fi Pet Camera
Your furry friend may not have hands to call you on WhatsApp but when setting up a pet camera, it is just as much the same. It allows you to check on your dog and see if he is misbehaving. Some pet cameras offer a two-way audio and visual access along with a treat dispenser whilst others are simpler.
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Cooling Collar/Vest
This may be your best defence against summer heat. Canines have very few sweat glands which can be found in the pads of their feet. That being said, they do not sweat to cool down unlike humans but instead, they pant to release the excess of body heat. With the use of a cooling collar or vest, it allows your pet to stay cool and lessen frantic panting.
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Treadmill for Dogs
Getting a treadmill is a good option for puppies or dogs that need to burn a lot of energy most especially for obese dogs and the highly active ones.
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Chatterbowl
This refers to the quality food bowl that allows you to leave a recording of your voice with a message for your furry friend. It mechanically plays the recording when your pet comes to eat or drink. With this, it may help ease your dog’s separation anxiety whilst away.
Toys for Dog Behaviour Management
Dog behaviour products refer to the tools or toys that are used to help with dog behaviour management.
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Chew Toys
Dogs, most especially young puppies, find the inclination to chew. As such, there are a few safe and durable products that are available in pet stores. Some chew toys are manufactured with dental benefits.
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Interactive Toys
Fetch toys and rope toys are good toys that require your active participation. A lot of dogs enjoy a good chase and retrieving game with the use of chasing balls and Frisbees or flying discs.Further, rope toys can be enjoyed in a game of tug of war. It is important to choose an exclusive toy that will only be used for this game to prevent inappropriate grabbing and tugging anything in your hand.
Cons of Some Dog Equipment
The following gadgets may be effective for some dogs but not all. In fact, the use of these gadgets resulted in an unpleasant stimulus such as fear.
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Anti-Barking Sounds/Sprays
These are collars that are activated when the dog barks, emitting a spray into the dog’s face or an ultrasonic sound. It is specifically designed to reduce inappropriate barking in dogs. Though spray collar received positive reviews from owners, anti-barking sound collar, on the other hand, was deemed ineffective.Moreover, barking is one of the means of communication for dogs. Apart from resorting to a quick fix, there are other ways to lessen excessive barking in dogs which require your time and patience. One is to provide enough time to exercise to keep boredom away.
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Electric Shock Collars and Fences
Electric collars are now banned in some places including Wales for good reasons. These are operated devices that inflict an electric shock to the dog upon pressing a certain button or overpassing the fence.Sure, it ensures that your pooch does not climb over, dig or chew on fences with an electric fence; however, it instils fear which can result in a traumatic experience.
