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An Introduction to Dog
Collar and Leash Training
Out of all obedience training devices, a dog collar and leash are the most important. But unless you use them correctly, you are risking an injury or even death to your puppy. Continue reading to learn more.
Pet equipment industry supplies a wide assortment of dog collars and leashes.
Some collars are highly specialized and are for training purposes only while others are well suited for everyday use. Leashes come in many different lengths.
Let's review some dog collar and leash basics.
A Dog Collar
Dog collars can be separated into 2 types: training collars and all-purpose, everyday collars.
A buckle collar, like this Lil' Paw Leather Dog Collars for Petite Dogs, is well suited for everyday use.
I feel it's a good idea to leave it on your dog at all times.
There are more examples of buckle collars lower on this page.
Some dog collars and leashes are strictly for training. If you are a new dog owner, get someone with experience to demonstrate how to use these collars correctly.
Here are some examples of such dog collars…
- A choke training collar
- An electronic dog collar
- Prong dog training collar
To protect your dog in case he gets lost or runs away, attach an identification tag to a buckle collar.
A Reflective ID Tag for Pets does not require any batteries and is a perfect companion for any buckle collar.
This tag does double duty:
- It helps your pet to be seen at night
- It has space for you to write important contact or medical information
Do not use this or any other tag on any dog training collar other than a buckle collar.
Dog Collar Training
To train your puppy to accept a collar, fit it comfortably but securely around his neck. A collar that is too tight can injure your puppy, while a collar that is too loose will allow your puppy to escape.
He will not like it at first. In fact, he will most likely jump, roll, and try to bite it. Let him do it, but don't encourage the behavior.
Just ignore him. You may also try to distract him to get his mind off the collar. Give him some food, toys or play with him.
With time, he will stop paying attention to the collar and even forget that it exists.
For more information on types of dog collars and their uses, visit dog training collars page.
A Dog Leash
When you purchase a dog leash, consider your puppy's size. For smaller breeds, get a lightweight leash. Get a heavier leash for a larger breed.
As far as the length goes, I find a six-foot leash the most convenient. But depending on where you live, you may want to get a longer or a shorter one.
Visit dog leash page for additional information on…
- Types and styles of dog leashes
- How to buy the right leash for your puppy
Leash Training
Your first task is to train your puppy to be calm when you put his dog collar and leash on.
Delay the walk until he is calm. Don't give in to his eagerness, or he will learn that you will tolerate this behavior in the future as well. Teach your puppy to sit calmly while you are putting a leash on.
Just as important is what your puppy does after the leash is on. If he sprints to the door, pulling you with him, he is not yet trained.
Stand back and, while you hold the leash, wait until he calms down.
Don't forget the power of praise. Always reward positive behavior and your puppy will learn what you expect of him a lot quicker.
For more leash training tips, visit dog leash training page.
It does not take long for your puppy to adjust to a dog collar and leash. Even adult dogs can learn to accept a collar and a leash in as little as three to four hours.
When you choose a dog collar and leash, keep two things in mind: safety and comfort.
But don't confuse safety and comfort with "boring"! Here are some collars and leashes that are safe, comfortable and fun!
Dog Gone Designs Collars & Leashes come in bright colors and dog-friendly designs.
They are fully adjustable and made from soft, durable nylon. These collars and leashes come in a variety of patterns and sizes. They sure stand out in a crowd!
A friend of mine got a Harley-Davidson dog collar and leash for his Boxer.
This Harley-Davidson Leather Dog Collar is constructed of two layers of top-grain leather, with orange topstitching, nickel studs and spikes and the Harley Bars & Shield logo medallion. And... it's made in the U.S.A.!
This Harley Davidson Nylon Lead comes in bright neon-orange or black and has either the Harley Davidson logo, or "Bad to the Bone" saying surrounding it.
Matching collars are also available.
For more tips on dog collar and leash training, visit dog obedience training section of this site.
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