Lots of tools can help you train your dog. In fact, there are so many options that making a choice can be quite confusing! Really, though, you need only a few basics to get started. You can add to your toolbox as your training progresses and you have a better idea of what your dog’s favorite rewards and activities are.
Buckle Collar
Your dog needs a buckle collar, as it is essential for safety that she wear identification at all times, and ID tags can be most conveniently attached to a buckle collar. Similarly, a buckle collar offers a convenient attachment for your dog’s leash, so you can safely walk your dog and train her in open areas.
Head Halter
A head halter is a wonderful, humane alternative to a pain-inducing collar. A halter affords the owner a considerable mechanical advantage to manage the dog. Whether the dog is strong and active or very tiny, a head halter can be a wonderful training aid.
A head halter is the physical equivalent of luring a dog with a food treat. Lead her by her head and the body will follow.
Head halters work on the age-old horsey premise that it’s easier to lead an animal by her head than by her neck. There are a variety of halters on the market, each with its own innovations. When used correctly, these halters offer almost instantaneous control of rambunctious or untrained dogs.
At first, your dog might find that this collar feels a bit strange (much in the same way that puppies react when first fitted with a buckle collar). To make the adjustment as easy as possible, simply spend one or two meals hand-feeding your dog her food as you put the halter on and take it off. Then stand up and entice your dog to walk with you by luring her with a piece of food. Walk smoothly, without jerking on the leash or stopping, and frequently reward your dog for walking with you. Before you know it, your dog will be happy to have the halter on because it signals the beginning of a delightful walk (which you will do more often now that your dog is so much easier to control).
Looks Can Be Deceiving
Unfortunately, halter-type collars are sometimes mistaken for muzzles, creating an image problem for these handy tools. But don’t let their looks both- er you. They are gentle aids and work like a dream!