Amber's Dog
Training Tips
I've had many canine
friends ask why dog training is not more popular among dog
owners. Dog training is a daunting proposition, they say,
too expensive, or boring and repetitive…
And yet, these are the same well-meaning people who unwittingly
condemn their best friend to a life of misery when he has
trouble adapting to his new home. I shudder to think that some
unfortunate dogs even face the death sentence through no fault
of their own!
Let me show you how you can learn the secrets of dog
training professionals from the comfort of your own home at a
fraction of the cost of dog training classes. Learn how to
master dog obedience and handle dog problems like a pro.
Turning your furry friend into a good canine citizen does not
have to be costly or even a chore. It can actually be a lot of
fun!
My
Library of Dog Training Books
Different dog
training books address different canine
issues. Select your first dog training book based on your
needs and those of your dog or puppy.
Decide whether you want to learn the basics of dog behavior and
dog obedience training, or the best way to housebreak your
puppy or older dog.
If you are just getting started, you will need to learn
basic training skills so you can communicate effectively with
your dog. Many dog owners set themselves and their dogs up for
failure by being inconsistent: right tone of voice, wrong body
positioning. The dog gets blamed for disobeying when in reality
he is simply confused.
When your dog is clear on who is alpha dog and is ready to
graduate, switch to having fun! Introduce him to clicker
training and get his brain working fast and furious trying to
figure out new situations.
Or how about teaching him some of those really clever tricks
you've seen canine stars perform on TV? With proper training,
he too can be a star!
Dog Training
Collars
Would
you believe that many people still select dog
training collars based on color? Wrong! Okay,
I'll admit to a degree of vanity: I do like my collar to
complement my fur coat. But a dog training collar must be
chosen first for its efficiency, which means you need to
understand your dog's personality in order to find the
perfect fit.
See why flat leather dog training collars are better than
rolled ones. But if you prefer nylon dog training collars with
their infinite choice of colors and patterns, do you realize
that one with a quick-release buckle may actually end up saving
your dog's life?
Martingale collars, on the other hand, can be very handy for
dogs that specialize in slipping out of traditional
collars.
And I bet you cringe when someone mentions choke collars, or
even worse, prong collars. Not surprising, as their design
brings to mind medieval instruments of torture. But would you
be surprised if I told you that the ASPCA sometimes recommends
them over other dog training collars, under the guidance of a
Certified Professional Dog Trainer?
If you are dealing with a super energetic, headstrong dog
whose lunging and jumping make him hard to control, a head
collar may be the answer to help you regain control. Is your
dog convinced that going for a walk means you are merely
tagging along for the exercise? The Gentle Leader harness was
designed to discourage pulling by redirecting his attention
towards you. That will set him straight!
So before you head out to the nearest store to get seduced
by the cute polka dot collar, or the macho studded leather
collar, first find out the difference between regular dog
collars and dog training collars. And then figure out which dog
training collar is best for your canine friend.
Dog Training
Leashes
Like dog training
collars, dog
training leashes come in an enormous range of
materials, colors and patterns. Of course, you'll want a dog
training leash to match the perfect dog training collar.
Whether you choose a flat or braided leash, plain or
studded, dog walks will never be the same again. You'll be
the envy of the neighborhood.
For the more whimsical dog, select a dog training leash to
match that personality.
Let the canine socialite introduce herself to the world at
large with her very own personalized nylon dog training leash
bearing her name and phone number. You never know, it might
work for you too!
Or choose a pattern to match or contrast with your dog's
coat or even his wardrobe. The important thing to remember is
to make sure the new dog training leash is suitable for the job
at hand.
Dog Kennels
For the canine jet setter,
dog kennels are the perfect solution. Airline approved,
they provide a safe way to travel and see the world.
But dog
kennels also offer shelter even in the comfort of
your home. Many dogs enjoy the privacy of a dog kennel to
the open concept of a dog crate.
Dog Crates
A
highly controversial subject, dog crates! Many people
think of a dog crate as nothing short of a prison cell for
their best friend. And if abused, they can be. We all know
that dogs are creatures of freedom, right?
But what many dog owners don't realize is that dog
crates can play a major role in dog house
training, and in fact help shorten the process. The trick is
to know how to use a dog crate and the best size to get for
your pooch.
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