Training collars are an effective way of developing your dog’s behaviour and obedience. There are three main types of dog training collar and each one should be used properly to get the results you want without harming your dog. Slip Collars (Choke Chains) Perhaps the most common dog training collar, a slip collar is designed to allow the trainer to quickly close and release the collar around a dog’s neck. Dogs learn to not repeat a behaviour when they feel the chain close.... more
Rewarding your dog is the best motivator when training. It is well known that using rewards and other positive reinforcement when obedience training a dog is the most effective method and achieves the best results. You can make obedience training fun for the dog and yourself too by making a game of it. This makes both your dog and you, as the trainer, more willing and motivated to give it your all. Incorporate a period of play at the start and the end of each training session to ensure... more
Dogs are not people. It may seem like an obvious observation, but so many people make the mistake time and time again of expecting their dog to act and think like a person. They attribute human traits and emotions to these noble animals and thus undermine their whole relationship, sending confusing signals and stressing the dog. Remember, the dog is an animal. Yes, even your cute little friend who curls up on the sofa next to you and loves to have his tummy tickled. He’s an animal,... more
As dogs are pack animals, it is important to understand that they are always aware of their position in the pack. This pack will encompass you, your family, other pets and of course all the dogs in the household. The Alpha dog or pack leader is seen by your dog as the leader and protector of the whole pack, and it is therefore crucial that you take on this role. Your dog will be healthier and happier if it feels secure in it’s pack, knowing that his leader is doing their job and keeping... more
Getting your dog’s attention is one of the most important things you can do to accelerate all other training skills. And if, once you’ve got it, you can keep that attention, then you’re really going to make some fast progress. Keeping your dog’s attention is essential in competition work, in the obedience ring for example, but also invaluable in everyday life. Okay, so we’ve established the advantages, now we need to look at how to attain this goal. It isn’t... more