When it comes to training your dog we know that it can be overwhelming sometimes especially when there are so many options when it comes to training your pup.

But we are going to go over some of the basics, or rather, the essentials of what every dog owner should know and the perfect tools you need to be successful in training your baby.

Below you can find an outline of the different sections we will discuss in this guide for those of you who want to get straight to the point and find exactly what you need.

Table of Contents

• The Basics: Why Training Is Important
• DIY vs Getting a Trainer
• Types of Training
• Training Equipment and Supplies
• Benefits of Training
• Training Problems
• Finding Good Trainers and Other Resources

The Basics: Why Training Is Important

So the question to really ask is why even take the time to train your pup?

Your already whelmed by the mere fact, especially if you just got a new puppy or bringing a new dog into the home you have to think of many things such as what a new dog owner needs, dog toys, its health and the many other expectations of having a dog in the house.

Now there is training to think about and why is that?

Well for starters there is one word that can sum up why training is important for every dog owner…

Obedience

As a dog the only thing they know how to do is be a dog and some of their behaviors are not always appropriate for you at all times.

This is where training comes into play so you and your pup knows the proper behaviors they should perform whether you are home or not.

Training is also important for understanding your dogs health when it comes to their specific behaviors and socializing with other humans and dogs.

For instance, if a dog sniffs you in an inappropriate place they don’t know that it is wrong and they just trying to tell you they want to play, again the only thing they know how to be is a dog.

So with understanding these key behaviors and how to handle them you can have a better groomed dog for their health and yours.

DIY vs Getting a Trainer

So where do you begin?

There are many routes that you can take and getting a certified trainer is a great option.

You could even have a private trainer come to your home for those one on one sessions to eliminate distractions.

Yet, a group class may be great because it may give your dog the ability to focus more since there are so many other distractions and other dogs around.

However, some of you may like to do it yourself and give it that personal touch as well building that bond between you two.

If you would like to do it yourself there are many resources available to follow this route and we will provide you with some.

Types of Training

Again we don’t want you to get overwhelmed with so many options out there because you can train your dog for so many things like:

• House and crate training
• Leash training
• Socializing
• Proofing Behaviors
• etc

Our goal here is to provide you with the tools you need to get you started with the simple basics…

House Training.

For example, the video below gives a great example of what some good techniques training your dog can yield and you can follow along in their series to help with your own training.

Training Equipment and Supplies

So the first thing your going to need when getting started with training your dog is a guide or a manual.

That is why we suggest this book first and foremost.

It is one of the best books on the market and many owners are raving about this book and how easy it is to follow along.

It also addresses all the topics you should expect when bringing a new pup to the family and really a healthy overview of taking care of your dog as well as training them.

And if reading isn’t your favorite thing there is a youtube channel which you can watch and follow along.

You can start with his “7 things to teach to your dog” .

Toys

Next up is toys.

Toys are a great way for not only bonding with your dog but actually increases communication by playing with them.

However every dog is different when it comes to toys because some may like one toy better than another.

It’s always best to try a variety of toys but one option that stands out and recommended especially if you’re not sure where to begin or get is this 14 pack of chew toys and ropes.

This is probably the best bang for your buck and then you can see which toy your dog gravitates to more.

However, if your dog has a problem with biting and chewing due to them either being a puppy and teething, or maybe they’re an aggressive chewer then this list of 10 toys for aggressive chewers is something you should check out.

Long Line

Now long lines as funny as they may sound are great when it comes to training new dogs with leashes.

As seen in the video below they are a great way to show your dog the rewards they get for obeying your commands and staying close to you.

They can come in various lengths of up to 100ft long, all depending on what your desired goal is but starting out with a 15ft should be good enough.

Treats

What’s training your dog without treats.

This is one of the reward system to use when it comes to praising your dog.

Whenever they do something good and begins to follow through with the new training praise them and reward them.

Every trainer shouldn’t go without these and what are some good treats to reward your dog with?

We’ll one option recommend…

Out of the many that are available we found this to have one of the best reviews for training your pup.

While other marketed treats can include such ingredients like garlic that can lead your dog to have diarrhea these are one of the most recommended for training rewards.

Therefore you can continue to treat your pup endlessly with rewards without the worry of any side effects.

Target Click Stick

The next thing we would recommend as a great training tool would be the Target Click Stick.

So what is the target click stick and how can it help with training.

Well not to seem like Mr. Obvious, but the target stick is a way to keep your dog focused on something, in this case the small ball like object at the end of the stick.

Playing in a fun and interactive way is a great way you can train your dog to come or go to a desired location.

It also works if your trying to get your dog to get into the car and with the target stick you can lead them into the car with no problems.

A great tool for retaining and focus, did we mention it helps with their focus 😁.

Another asset to this stick is it comes with a clicker.

What’s the point of a clicker?

Well, with a clicker it helps to associate the sound with either a reward, treat, or praise.

So training them with the desired action associated with the click sound and reward altogether creates a cohesive collaboration allowing for an easier training session.

A great tool to place into your training tools belt.

Portable Mat

Last but certainly not least in our tool options is probably the most important you would want in your home.

A mat option for when your dog needs to use the bathroom especially if you’re not at home.

Portable mats where designed with your dog in mind.

Why, because it gives the feel of the outdoors which dogs are most comfortable with.

Learning to train your dog to use the bathroom on one of these will give you the peace of mind while away for long periods of time when you’re not able to take your baby outside.

A definite must have for small apartments or houses knowing you’re not able to fill your dogs need if you’re away for long periods.

Benefits of Training

Now you know the primary tools you need for when it comes to training, but what do you gain from training your dog besides just having a good dog you can be proud of.

There is more to training than just controlling excited behavior.

2 things that training can help with are…

• Socializing
• Handling.

Socializing is basically helping your pup getting acclimated or used to different environments such as other dogs and other people and the faster you do this it makes it easier on you and your pup.

For more information on training your puppy check out this article on socialization.

Then next benefit is Handling or grooming.

Now if your training your dog from home then grooming is an important aspect.

Not just for you but when it comes to things like visiting your vet.

For example, let’s say you only clip your dogs nails when you visit the vet.

This can cause issues behavior and discomfort to arise due to the fact that the only time grooming happens is when you go to the vet therefore their association with grooming is scary and unpleasant.

Yet, introducing them to grooming practices before visiting the vet can help to a more obedient pet and even save you some money since the vet won’t need extra set of hands for grooming.

Training Problems

We’ve discussed a lot haven’t we and we still have a few more points to go over.

As training in any endeavor it does take time and your dog will not get it right away, but don’t scold them for making mistakes but rather be patient.

Some pointers to look out for or to help in the process of training will work wonders down the road.

For first up its…

1. Be Consistent

If your trying to stop them from jumping up on you like when your going to work then its best to train them in your everyday wear as well.

This consistency will help to reinforce their behavior at all times.

2. Rewards

As mentioned before your dog doesn’t know that biting at you or sniffing you in an inappropriate position is wrong, there dogs and that’s the only way they know how to communicate.

So instead of scolding them use treats to do what you ask like sitting and when they listen reward them.

This will help to engrain the pattern of them listening to specific commands.

Don’t forget that dogs love to play so be sure to give them the attention they need and both you and your dog will be glad that you did.

Finding Good Trainers and Other Resources

We know that we couldn’t provide everything you need to know and sometimes it does help to get someone who is certified and we can only give some advice along with the tools that can help you get started, but a dog trainer is never a bad idea.

But where can you find a good trainer?

Well the first place you can do is look around you.

The next time you take your dog for a walk.

If you see a neighbor who has a well behaved dog kindly ask them where they got their dog trained and a recommendation from them.

That’s one way, but another way is looking for training clubs in your area and of course as internet enthusiasts we will always suggest google but to help get you started you can check out AKC Training Groups.

The AKC has a lot of great information on dogs and training or any other topic you might be interested in.

We would also like to add that good training can lead to a more healthier pup when your dogs spends time alone for hours at a time when your at work.

Good training methods can help with separation anxiety which you can read more about here.

So to wrap things things up for now I think this is a great start for training your dog along with key training tools to get you started.

Follow these simple steps in the videos and guides and you will be on your way to a happier dog and home.

We hope you enjoyed these tips and if you did then please share this with someone who could benefit from this article.

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