Articles on everything Dog Training Related
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We are Getting a Puppy - What do we need?
Puppy Collar
Your puppy grows, and until it is fully grown, I suggest you choose a cheap model. We should ONLY use a collar for nametag attachment. A puppy learning to walk on a leash must, in my best belief, be in a harness that is much safer than a collar.
Dog Harness
When you buy a harness for your puppy, you must find one that does not inhibit your puppy's movements, and again be aware that your puppy is growing and that the harness does not last forever. I suggest an adjustable Y- Shaped Roman-style harness.
Dog Lead
I recommend 120-150cm for the city walk, avoid cheap nylon, as it is very hard on your hands. Personally, I love the Mendota leads; absolutely the beast puppy lead with a high-quality brass carabiner, they are light and soft in hand. I prefer to give the puppy as much freedom as possible in the woods and open areas, where I use a light biothane dog training lead.
Puppy Crate or Playpen
When you aren’t available to supervise your puppy or when you practice “alone home training,” a puppy crate or a playpen is a very safe space. Make sure to provide your puppy with a bed, toys, a potty area, plenty of space, and fresh drinking water. Make sure to buy the dog crate size that is right for your adult dog.
Puppy Bed
It is important that you choose the correct size puppy bed. small enough to feel protected and big enough for a leg stretch. A good mattress sufficiently padded and a washable dog bed is preferable; as your puppy grows and might like to chew on the fabric consider buying an affordable bed that you can change as your puppy grows.
Dog Treat Pouch
There are many dog treat bags on the market, and believe me; I have tried most; the one that I always go back to is Doggone Good as it is easy to clean, has a magnetic closure, and is ergonomic. New alternatives are silicone treat bags with magnetic closure, which are very easy to clean.
Dog Treats
Our dogs often prefer homemade puppy treats, but treats like freeze-dried beef liver treats are usually a winner if you are in a hurry. Experiment and learn what type of treats your dog likes, and remember to consider what kind of training you are doing and what environment. I mainly choose soft treats of pea size and high quality for regular training. If we are going to the vet or working in a challenging environment, I will bring fresh meat, cheese, or homemade liver cake.
What's on Your Mind?
Are you looking for specific dog training-related information, or do you have a story that you would like to share? The Dogitivity blog can, with your help, be a place where we can share our experiences, our stories also the tougher ones and get answers to our questions. Please reach out to me. I am always happy to discuss.
Are you a fellow dog trainer or dog professional? I am interested in sharing your dog training blogs. Are you specialized in working through specific dog behavior: Separation anxiety, aggression, arousal, anxiety, rehomed dogs? Or certain dog breeds: Alsations, gun dogs, or guide dogs. Are you competing in any specific dog sport, or do you have an interesting story you would like to share? Please don't hesitate, reach out today.
I am looking forward to hearing from you.
Happy training
Christina x