Treat Pouches
To get started training your dog, it's important to have lots of treats available. These will help your dog learn new skills, and you'll reward behaviors you want to see more of with treats. When selecting a treat pouch, look for one that will be comfortable for you to wear and carry during training sessions and walks.
Training Leashes
When teaching new skills or taking your dog on a training walk, it's best to have your dog leashed and using a 6-foot training leash. This gives your dog space to maneuver but keeps them safely at your side. Leashes come in a variety of materials, but the best options for comfort during training will be made from leather, BioThane, or nylon.
Clickers
In dog training, clickers are a secondary reinforcer. If you pair the sound of the clicker with a primary reinforcer (usually treats or food), your dog will associate the sound with knowing they have done the right thing.
Long-Line Training Leash
When teaching your dog to come when called, it is useful to have a long-line training leash. Long leashes allow you to give your dog more freedom while keeping them connected to you.
Targets
Targeting teaches dogs to touch a specific part of their body (usually the nose or feet) to the target. You can also use targets to get your dog's attention in stressful or distracting situations. Targets can help teach new skills and behaviors, especially cues, at a distance.
Pee Pads
If you're looking to brush up on your dog's potty-training skills, you'll want to have some pee pads available. Pee pads offer your dog a specific place to go to the bathroom while indoors.
Agility Sets
If you want to challenge your dog both physically and mentally, consider teaching your dog to play the fun sport of dog agility. You can set these agility kits up in your yard or inside your home. These kits can help your dog learn beginning skills at home and are also great for practicing between classes.
Dog Fitness Equipment
As you start to refocus on training, it's a good idea to focus on increasing your dog's fitness levels. This can increase your bond, strengthen your dog's muscles, and improve your dog's coordination. Working on fitness can also help prevent muscle strains and other injuries.
Platforms
When training, it's useful to be able to have a platform as a clear place to send your dog. Platforms can help dogs work on impulse control and facilitate clearer communication between dog and handler. They should be large enough for your dog to get onto when cued, a surface that won't move when they sit or lie on it.
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