Styles of Collars

Consider for which activity you are planning on using the collar. Get a flat collar if the fur of your dog is short to leave your dog’s neck unmarked. Wide padded collars are not only comfortable for your dog, but also safer than slimmer collars in terms of preventing damage to the windpipe. Round dog collar for long haired dogs to keep the hair from lying flat and not break.

Buckle collars

The buckle collar will have a metal or plastic buckle on it, somewhat similar to a belt. The buckle makes the collar size adjustable. These collars are available in many different materials, as well as a wide variety of colors and patterns. A properly fitted flat buckle collar will be somewhat snug; however, you should be able to easily fit two fingers between your pet’s neck and the collar. A flat buckle collar that is too tight can cause skin irritation.

Martingale collars

Another option for a dog with a large neck and a small head is the martingale collar (or Premier collar). The martingale collar has a loop that connects two ends of a flat collar and can be made of nylon, leather or chain. A pull on this loop will cause the collar to tighten only as far as the ends of the flat collar, thereby reducing the opportunity for choking or damage to the trachea.

Slip collars

These are usually made of nylon or leather and have rings at either end – or they are made of metal chain, so called choke collars. When a slip collar is put on properly, pulling on the leash causes the collar to cinch up like a noose and then release after a correction is given. These are generally used for training purposes only.

Head halters

The halter-style collar controls the dog’s head but does not restrict its ability to pant, drink, or grasp objects. Head halters (sold under brand names such as Halti or Gentle Leader), are similar in design to a halter for a horse. This muzzle-like device fastens around the back of the neck and over the top of the muzzle, giving more control over a dog’s direction and the intensity of pulling on a leash than collars that fit strictly around the neck. Pressure on this type of collar pulls the dog’s head towards the handler.
Bear in mind though that injury can result from improper use of the head halter; if a dog is jerked suddenly by the leash attached to the head halter, the dog’s neck is pulled sharply to the side, which might result in neck injury.

Material

Dog collars come in a wide range of materials with leather and nylon being the most common popular. Lined collars (such as fleece lined martingale collars) are increasing in popularity.. Not only are they fashionable but they are also very comfortable for your dog.

Leather
Leather collars generally get softer with use, though depending on their finish and use they may stretch or crack as they age. Cleaning leather collars simply using soap and water will dry out the leather, and shorten its useful life. To prevent this from happening, be sure to apply leather conditioner or oil to the collar or other approved cleaning products designed for leather.

Nylon

Nylon collars are less likely to break or stretch than leather collars. They can be cleaned by simply using soap and water.

Sizing

To obtain the perfect size, provide an allowance by inserting your two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck.

There are many reasons owners to use a dog harnesses, including behavior issues, safety concerns or medical conditions.

The harness is recommended by many dog trainers and animal behaviorists as a harness has many advantages over a collar in some very basic and humane ways: A dog harness distributes force evenly throughout the dog. Instead of yanking the dog’s head, you can pull on a harness and the dog feels his entire center of gravity being moved. This is a much more humane way of applying force to a dog, when force is needed.

For some small dog owners harnesses become a medical necessity due to a condition called collapsing trachea. The trachea (the airway to the lungs) of these animals can become flattened or completely collapse as a result of pressure on the throat, such as when pulling on the collar during walks.

Harnesses are also more difficult for a dog to slip out of than a flat buckle collar, so for dogs that have a relatively large neck when compared to their head (e.g. greyhounds, pugs, etc.) a harness can be essential as they can easily pull out of many collars. These dogs may slip their head through collar.

No matter what your motivation for using a harness, finding the right style should be easy when you stop to consider a few factors before you shop.

Features to Consider in a Dog Harness

• Type (Car seatbelt, step-in harness, coat harness)
• Material: Strength of material, type of buckles, width of straps
• Design: Adjustablility, comfort, convenient and easy to use
• Safety: Strength, secure buckles
• Size
• Machine washable

An ideal choice for a harness for your dog is an adjustable, easy to fit harness with secure buckles, that is comfortable, durable and machine washable. Choose based on your dog’s size, temperament, body type or for primary function and ease of use.

On of our favorite types for smaller dogs are the soft canvas harnesses.

Size

The harness should be snug, but still allow two fingers to slip easily beneath it.

Harness size is determined by the size of the dog’s chest. To find your dog’s harness size, simply measure the widest part of the ribcage just behind the elbows nd add about 5 cms.Keep in mind that each harness type may have different or additional measurement points to assure proper sizing.Harnesses usually fasten with a buckle, so the size is adjustable.

A harness should be tight enough to prevent slipping, note that some dogs have the capability to slip out of harness that is too loose. Note that the harness material may stretch or loosen with use so be sure to check the fit regularly. So whatever type of harness you select, find one that is adjustable so it fits your dog properly can expand.

A Kong is a rubber chew toy that you stuff with your dog’s favorite dog treats. Some stuffed Kong dog chew toys will provide hours of stimulating chewing fun for your dog, and you’ll have fun coming up with new stuffing recipes that your dog will really love.

Many dogs are home alone for hours each day. This time alone can be very difficult for some, symptoms of separation anxiety, boredom and loneliness are not uncommon. Before you leave for the day, try giving your dog some treat filled Kong dog chew toys, this can keep him occupied for hours.

Choosing the Kong chew toy that’s right for your dog?
1) Select your dog’s chewing temperament. Red for typical or black for power chewer. There is also aqua for puppies and purple for senior dogs.
2) Select the appropriate sized Kong from the based on your dog’s weight.
(If you’re selecting a Kong for stuffing and you have a small dog, Kong recommends using a medium sized Kong chew toy rather than the small one).

Getting your dog aquainted with kongs
If Kong dog chew toys are new to your dog, remember that it is very important that your dog succeeds at getting the dog treats. In the beginning make it easy for your dog to remove the filling. Slowly increase the challenge for example by freezing a treat filled Kong.

Filling the Kong
Anything that you would normally feed your dog can be used in a Kong chew toy. Try mixing crunchy bits of dry dog food with softer foods like peanut butter, cheese, meat, mashed potatoes, yogurt, scramble egg, rice or canned dog food. The list is endless – just make sure you fill it with foods that your dog really loves. Your dog will happily work at the task for hours on end. Homemade fillings are the best.

There are many recipe ideas and different ways to fill Kong dog chew toys. The simplest recipes start by combining all the ingredients into a gooey mixture that you spoon into the Kong. A more advanced technique is to layer different fillings… so as the hours pass the tasty rewards change.You may even want to try putting your dog’s most favorite treat in first, so that the final part of the excavation could be your dog’s grand prize.

Try filling a Kong dog toy with cheese and pieces other treats, and then heat it in the microwave. This will bind the pieces together and add to your dog’s challenge. Always remember to let the Kong cool before giving it to your dog. Another way to increase the challenge is by plugging the larger hole after you fill the Kong. You can use a piece of fruit, dog treats, peanut butter, a piece of carrot or anything else that will plug the hole – making your dog work a little harder to get the filling out.

In the warmer weather try filling your dog’s Kong chew toy and freezing it. It will take your dog much longer to get it all cleaned out if it is frozen. Your dog will really appreciate this type of cool treat on a hot summer day. If you are using a liquid filling, start by stuffing the small hole with a treat. Depending on how much liquid you use… you may want to reserve this treat for outdoor fun since it can get a little messy as it melts.

Cleaning your dog’s Kong toys
It is important to clean your dog’s Kong before refilling. Yes, Kong dog chew toys are dishwasher safe.
If you don’t have a dishwasher just soak the Kong is warm soapy water to loosen any food residue and rinse thoroughly.

Puppy proofing your home

Toy puppies might not be able to chew their way through a whole lot of surfaces, but they can bite enough to do a fair amount of damage on your home and furniture. Puppy-proofing your home before the puppy arrives is a must.

Electrical cords and wires are especially hazardous and need to be out of reach (You can purchase cord runners at a home improvement store) or taped to walls, as a teething puppy could electrocute himself while chewing on an electrical cord.

Keep small objects out of your puppy’s reach. Puppies like to chew and can easily swallow things like coins and jewelry, and keep your books, shoes and clothing out of harm’s way.

Replace potentially toxic plants with fake plants or non-toxic ones. Some plants which may be a danger are carnations, daffodils, eucalyptus, and azalea.

Place baby gates in front of stairs. Puppies can be clumsy and fall.

Bitter-tasting liquids can be helpful to apply to your furniture.

Provide plenty of chew toys

Provide your pup with appropriate chew toys, something that is not going to be swallowed and cause intestinal blockages. Choose an assortment of toys of all textures, including plenty of chew toys and bones that are soft and hard. Excellent chew toys and wonderful for the teething period are Kongs. Kongs come in a variety of sizes and designs. They are made of tough rubber and can be filled with goodies. You can purchase ready-made fillings for your dog’s Kong or you can create your own tasty recipes that your dog is sure to love.

Remember that dogs need to chew throughout their lives, dogs instinctively chew on things. But, it’s probably safe to assume that you would rather have your dog chew on designated dog toys rather than on your valuable household items or cherished possessions, so provide even your adult dog with an assortment of chew toys. Providing irresistible treat-filled Kong chew toys will engage your dog for hours.

Safety first
Dog toys should be enjoyable and fun for your puppy, but don’t forget to ensure the toys are durable and safe. You don’t want your dog to start choking if he accidentally chews off a small piece and swallows it.

You must look at several factors in order to determine a dog toy’s safety and durability; factors such as the size of your dog, its activity level, and also you and your dog’s personal preference.

Be cautious when choosing the toys, unfortunately, in many cases, the toys that dogs find the most fascinating are the ones that could create the greatest risk. Do not buy dog toys that are small enough for the dog to accidentally swallow or could cause your dog to choke. The size of the toy should be in direct correlation with the size of your dog; small dog, small toy or large dog, large toy. Watch out for toys that may have parts that are not “dog proof.” Some examples of parts of a toy that a dog could chew or ingest are strings, eyes, and ribbons, among other thing.
Consider also that dog toys that are squeaky and soft are good for some dogs, but not all dogs. Some dogs simply play rough and can easily tear these types of toys apart, leaving pieces to swallow, or just a mess for you to clean up.

Rubber dog toys

Great jaw and mouth exercise for dogs that like to chew; keeps them occupied for hours; fun for fetch or non-interactive play; great for aggressive chewers because they are so durable. Some are hollow so you can put treats inside of them.
Dogs instinctively chew on things. But, it’s probably safe to assume that you would rather have your dog chew on designated dog toys rather than on your valuable household items or cherished possessions. providing your dog with irresistible treat-filled Kong dog toys classic kong chew toys that will engage your pet for hours.You can purchase ready-made fillings for your dog’s Kong or you can create your own tasty recipes that your dog is sure to love.
Dental dog chew toys and treats not only keeps your dog entertained, and while he’s chewing they will actually squeegee your dog’s teeth and gums – reducing tartar buildup while providing a healthy massage for your pet’s gums.

Vinyl dog toys

Easily compressed by the bite of just about any-sized dog; usually have squeakers that almost all dogs enjoy; great for fetch, but items like our Clutch Ball are especially popular because of the squeaker.

Plush dog toys

Made of fleece, plush fabric; retains dog’s scent for extended play; some have squeakers; great for fetch, other dogs just like to carry soft or plush toys around and snuggle.
There are many intelligence building dog plush toys, usually these toys consist of an outer toy that conceals one or more smaller toys. Your dog is challenged to figure out how to get the smaller toys out of the larger toy. These are generally to be used under supervision.

Rope dog toys

Great for fetch, tug games, and chewing; often flavored; good for teeth and gums; they last a long time. Examples: Tennis Ball Tuggers Dog Toys and the Nuts for Knots Dog Toy.

Rawhide chews and bones

Chewing rawhide removes plaque from the dog’s teeth and keeps them cleaner while the dog has a great time chewing; come in many flavors, sizes and shapes – from bones to chews.

Bone-Hard Toys & Chews

Great for dogs who love to chew; good for the teeth since they remove plaque and are nonabrasive; relieve boredom; come in various flavors and sizes.

Many dogs are surprisingly finicky about the size, shape, or feel of the toys they’ll play with. If your dog doesn’t play with the soft plush toy you give him, try a rubber or bone-hard toy. Be patient and don’t give up – you’ll find the toy type your pet loves to play with.

Storage

If you love to lavish your dog with lots of great toys then you may want to consider getting a dog toy storage box to keep things neat and tidy. You can even make a game of teaching your dog to clean up his toys!

Karen Pryor is one of the foremost authorities on this method, and at her website Clickertraining we find this definition:
“Clicker training” is an animal training method based on behavioral psychology that relies on marking desirable behavior and rewarding it. Desirable behavior is usually marked by using a “clicker,” a mechanical device that makes a short, distinct “click” sound which tells the animal exactly when they’re doing the right thing. This clear form of communication, combined with positive reinforcement, is an effective, safe, and humane way to teach any animal any behavior that it is physically and mentally capable of doing. ”

If you want to learn more about the theory of Clicker Training we highly recommend Karen Pryor’s book Don’t Shoot the Dog. It is a classic and a must-have book! The book outlines 8 methods for putting an end to all kinds of undesirable behavior without yelling, threats, force, punishment, guilt trips – or shooting the dog! Note that this is not a how-to book on clicker-training, it is the theory of clicker training and also an inspiration!

Look inside DON’T SHOOT THE DOG at Dogwise

Search inside DON’T SHOOT THE DOG at Amazon.com

Why is a clicker used? Why use the click? Why not just a word?
The essential difference between clicker training and other reward-based training is that the animal is told exactly which behavior earned it a reward. With the click, it is possible to precisely “mark” behavior so that our dog knows exactly what it was doing. That’s why the click is also called an “event marker.”

It is possible to use a word or another sound instead of the click. But a click is very powerful for training because:
It is not a sound heard by the animal in other circumstances.
It has only one meaning for the dog: a reward is coming because of what you did when you heard the click.
It can be produced instantly and at the exact moment a behavior occurs.
The click sounds the same every time it is heard; its meaning never varies. Our voices can say the same word in different ways, and so express different emotions or meanings each time.

Getting Started
If you’re anything like me, once you’ve read Karen Pryor’s book DON’T SHOOT THE DOG you’ll be dying to give clicker training a go! If you haven’t tried clicker training before check out Karen Pryor’s CLICKER DOG TRAINING KIT
at Dogwise to get you started. It includes a book, an i-Click clicker, a small packet of treats, and “click-a-trick” cards, each with a behavior your can teach your dog.

Some of our favorite Clicker books/DVDs
If you are learning clicker training on your own, DVDs or videos may be better for giving you the all-important sense of timing but books are easier to pick up and refer to.

Click for Joy: Questions and Answers from Clicker Trainers and their Dogs
by Melissa C. Alexander
Melissa Alexander, moderator of the online discussion forum ClickerSolutions has collected clear and accurate answers to over one hundred commonly asked questions about clicker training in one essential reference guide. Each question covers two or more pages, with the question, its answer, often a short success story, and a little “See also” sidebar, listing related questions.

It has the following Chapters, each chapter covering 6-8 questions:
About Clicker Training, Equipment, That Magical Click, Reinforcement, Getting Started, Punishment, Mistakes, and Errors, About Training Sessions, Getting the Behavior, Making the Behavior Perfect, Reliability and Fluency, Specific Behaviors, Solving Problem Behavior, Beyond Training, Beyond Method: The Underlying Science

Look inside CLICK FOR JOY! at Dogwise!

TAKE A BOW…WOW/BOW WOW TAKE 2 DVD
by Virginia Broitman & Sherri Lippman
Take a Bow…Wow is a collection of fun and functional dog tricks. Well-done and enjoyable, training techniques are based on positive reinforcement. Tricks include, take a bow, play dead, ring a bell (when you need to go out), open and close doors, wave, chase your tail, and retrieve your leash.

Bow Wow Take 2 has more fun and practical tricks taught with clickers! Many tricks are useful for service dog training, including turning on/off TV or lights, carrying and retrieving all sorts of things, throwing away garbage. Dogs of all ages and breeds – including mixed breeds – demonstrate. Retrieve training will be especially helpful for “non-retriever” types!

See a clip from TAKE A BOW…WOW/BOW WOW TAKE 2 DVD at Dogwise!

Once you and your dog have mastered the basics of clicker training, you’ll be amazed at what you can teach with this positive method! Take your training to the next level with these resources:

Clicker training for the showdog:
POSITIVE TRAINING FOR SHOW DOGS – BUILDING A RELATIONSHIP FOR SUCCESS by Vicki Ronchette

Clicker training for the obedience dog:
CLICKER TRAINING FOR OBEDIENCE by by Morgan Spector

Clicker training for the agility dog:
CLICK & PLAY AGILITY by Angelica Steinker

Find more books and DVDs on Clicker Training at Dogwise.com.

Material

Leads come in many different materials, the most common are nylon, leather and cotton. When choosing a material consider the flexibility of the lead. If the lead is too hard or too stiff it will be uncomfortable for the dog and impractical for you.

Nylon Lead

The most popular lead is the nylon lead. Its low price tag, along with the variety of colors and designs makes it a popular item. They are used in every day situations as well as dog training. the drawback is that nylon can be rough on hands with extended use.

Leather Lead

Leather leads are attractive, strong and generally get softer and better with use. But if your dog will be around water often, a leather dog leash won’t hold up as well as a nylon one.

Cotton Lead

There are also leads made out of cotton, which are easier on the hands than nylon. Cotton training leads can be bought in very long lengths, making them ideal for training outside.

Another variety of cotton leads are the cotton canvas leads. They come in a variety of colors and styles.

Size

Width

The size of the lead depends on the size of your dog and personal preference. The bigger your dog, the wider his leash should be. If you’re choosing a leash for a puppy, buy with his adult size in mind whenever possible.

Length

One good factor to consider is the length of the lead. It is of course important to know how long the dog lead will be so that it won’t throttle your dog, and of course you don’t have to stop to much with a longer lead.