There are many tools available on the market, some of which you might want to use whilst some of which many professional dog trainers do not agree with. But what are you likely to want to invest in to make your dog training run smoothly?
Treats
First of all, you are almost certainly going to be working with treats. Depending on who you speak to, you will get a whole range of different ideas. From purpose bought treats to strips of meat and even dried liver. There are many different ideas out and about. But, what I suggest that you consider is that especially at first you could be giving your dog a lot of treats. If you are giving them something that they are not used to eating that has a high calorie content you could be giving them an awful lot to eat! Stick the treats into a bag that you carry in a certain pocket, or attached to your belt, or better still in a waist belt. You want to be able to instantly retrieve a treat the moment it is needed so that the dog can associate good behaviour and treat.
A last word on treats - when buying treats pick dog treats over human treats. Chocolate is not good for dogs - so avoid human sweets, no matter how much your dog seems to want them!
Collars
Collars are how you apply your control to your dog, it is where you attach a lead of some sort and where the force is applied. A simple collar is all that is recommended by a lot of dog trainers and many do not agree with the choke type collar. If the basic collar is not working with your dog, then a halter that fits around your pet's head, similar to a muzzle but without being restrictive, can be used for training sessions. When pulled, this forces your dog's head around slightly and emphasises the commands.
Leads
Where would we be without the lead! A short lead for training exercises and a long lead for more distance work. Extendable leads are very much available, but not such a good idea for training. You will want a good quality lead that is comfortable for you to pull on when instructing your dog and turning him or her. A narrow handle might dig into your hands and a metal chain can be a distraction to your pet with the noise that it makes.
Toys
It is useful to have a favourite toy, especially one that can make a noise. Then carry the toy when you are out and you can show it to your dog and encourage them back or distract them from whatever is causing them to go astray! If you choose carefully, you might even be able to lay your hands on a toy into which you can insert some treats to help reinforce its popularity with your four legged companion, before you head out of doors.
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