Training Techniques and Equipment

Training collar: Any collar that fits around the dog's neck that gives the handler control. The simplest training collar is a buckle collar. The most common is the chain training or "choke" collar. Rising in popularity is the prong or pinch collar, a torturous-looking device that actually provides a milder correction and is quite effective on boisterous dogs when used properly. Also acceptable is the halter or head collar, which fits the dog's whole head and uses the handler's ability to turn the dog's head rather than neck pressure as the control.

Leash or lead: A piece of leather or fabric with one end attached to the dog's collar and the other held in the trainer's hand. Chain or rope leashes are unwieldy and can cause blisters or burns if the dog pulls hard.

Training your dog to be obedient will be an extraordinary learning experience for you and your dog. The process, however, may not be as simple as you'd expected and can even be frustrating at times. Bear in mind that dogs naturally develop their own manners, physical gestures, and mind-set. They can be tremendously stubborn, extremely dominant, pleasantly submissive, or in fact terribly fearful, all of which are characteristics and attitudes that could make the process tougher. Once effective communication between you and your dog is established, training can begin to take shape. Find out about our dog training techniques.

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