Product Recommendations

Recommended Supplies for General Training and Care

The right tool makes all the difference.  We’ve road tested a LOT of dog supplies over the years.  Here are some of our favorites. 

 

BOOK:  Maran Illustrated Dog Training

For obedience training and correcting problem behaviors, I love the easy to follow instructions and loads of pictures.  The younger members of your family will be able to use the pictures to understand the methods,  while the text also provides great explanations.  Plus, the positive methods and cues used in this book are similar to those used here at What a Good Dog!  Great book to have on hand.  

A harness is one of our favorite tools for teaching loose leash walking.  Any brand will be fine.  Just be sure it has a ring in front, at the chest.  Attaching the leash to the front ring makes all the difference.  . 

We sell the Premier brand harnesses.

Try stuffing a Kong with wet kibble and a little peanut butter, then freezing it.  Makes a great time consuming treat for lengthy alone times.  

Have a pup?  You NEED an enzymatic cleaner, like Nature’s Miracle.  Good housetraining means minimizing accidents.  BUT, they will happen.  It is imperative that you remove all traces of odor, to prevent repeat offenses.   Just look for a product made specifically to neutralize the odor.

Chewing problems?  A chew deterrent spray, like Bitter Apple, can be very helpful.  Works really well with some dogs… one spritz on the item and they stay away.  Other dogs don’t mind the taste, so for those it’s useless.  But, it’s pure magic if it works for your dog.

Dogs crave mental stimulation.  Wild canines spend much of their day using their minds and bodies to hunt food.  A treat ball isn’t exactly the same challenge as a live rabbit.  But, it is certainly more interesting than a meal fed in a bowl.  My dogs get their breakfast kibble in a treat ball everyday.  The Buster Cube is indestructible.  But, the hard plastic can be loud in the house.

Recommended Supplies for Training with Us

Collar / harness:  For training loose leash walking, our favorite tools are a front attach harness (must have a front ring) or head collar for training.  But, let us evaluate your dog to help you decide what will work best for him. 

Leash:  5’ - 6’ leashes are best for training.  For very small dogs the leash and snap should be lightweight (so it won’t be a distraction to the dog).  The leash material is a matter of personal preference.  Chain is a bad choice because it’s hard on your hands.  I like leather or soft nylon.   

Treats:  We do use treats for training.  Select something that your dog loves.  It’s best if it is in tiny bite sized pieces and soft.  If it’s crunchy, your dog will get distracted looking for crumbs.  Try Bill-Jac Small Dog Treats, freeze dried liver, Pet Botanics Training Rewards or pieces of hot dog, chicken or cheese.  You can carry them in your pocket, a treat pouch, nail apron, or whatever you like.   

 

 

 

 

 

Make the effort to teach your pup to love Nylabones.  Your furniture will thank you!  Try boiling one in chicken broth, or smearing it with a little peanut butter or cream cheese.  Once your dog has the Nylabone habit (way better than a shoe habit!), the extra flavors won’t be needed.