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.