Everything You Need to Know About Dog Training and Behavior Products

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Introduction

Big or small, short or tall, laid-back lapdog or four-pawed fitness freak -- each and every pupper needs some degree of training. How far you’d like to take their education is up to you. Some owners stick to teaching their pooch good manners, whereas others might want to investigate their doggo’s athletic prowess. There are so many training philosophies, methods, and tips out there -- but all of them are going to require you to purchase some kind of educational equipment. We’ve taken a look at some of the many dog training and behavior products available so you can find something that fits your fur-ball’s needs.

Whistles and Clickers

Like your voice or a hand gesture, a whistle is a cue to let your doggo know that they have a job to do. So why use one? The sound of a whistle carries further, and it’s a great way to stop frustration from showing! A clicker marks a task as done -- click it once your pooch does something, and the sound will remind them of it in future.

Repellents and Attractants

Sometimes, a pup parent just needs a little more help. Dog repellents refer to things that stop your pup from engaging in a behavior -- bitter spray to stop chewing, for example, or sprays to treat an area where you don’t want your dog to dig. Attractants are usually used during potty training to point your pupper where to go and are very useful for those using puppy pee-pads.

Potty Training

If you’re stuck on where to start training your pup, don’t worry -- your buddy’s bladder has decided for you. Enzyme remover sprays are a mutts-purchase for cleaning up accidents, as the smell will need to be removed from your carpet completely to prevent your pup from going there again. Pee mats are a great bet for apartment dwellers, though they shouldn’t replace the practice of toileting outside entirely.
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Sports Dog Training

If your buddy’s going to come hunting, mushing, or sledding with you, you’ll need the proper tools to train them up! Retrieving dogs will need longer cords at the very least, and perhaps even a long-range e-collar for recall training, while canvas dummies are a must. Sledding dogs will need a well-fitting harness, a proper buckle collar, and items to tow before they’re ready for the real thing.

Remote Training

Remote training mostly involves the use of a remote-controlled collar -- a device with a bit of a bad reputation, as many claim that the use of a shock collar is both inhumane and can cause aggressive behavior. The world has moved on from simple shocks, though, and there are now collars that provide reinforcement in the form of a vibration or series of audio tones.

Agility Training

Whether your pooch wants to compete or just get some variety in their exercise, agility training can be a lot of fun for pups and people alike! Standard agility equipment includes jumps (think equestrian jumps, but miniature), poles to weave between, a crawl tunnel, and some balancing boards. Fortunately, it’s pretty easy to DIY your way to success by using old pipes and planks. Get creative!