If you are one of the many new dog guardians enthused about the first puppy or obedience class at your local dog training school, good for you! You have made a positive decision to start your new family member off on the right foot.
Dog Training Essentials
Before you get carried away with fashion accessories, you will need some basic supplies for class. For starters, we hope you have enrolled in a positive training class; if so you will need lots of small soft, healthy, high value training treats for your dog. (High value treats are not kibble or biscuits.) The treats you use to train should be healthy, tasty, and plentiful. We suggest not feeding your dog a big meal before class. You should either wait to feed your dog after class, or feed a small amount before you come. This also helps with reducing the possibility of car sickness if your new pet has not ridden a lot before.
Dog Travel Safety
Don’t forget! …Safety First! Use a seat belt or crate for transporting your dog, and these can be found at most pet supply stores. This is the safest option for you and your dog.
Dog Equipment Basics
The majority of trainers will want you to have a sturdy leather or nylon; four or six-foot lead, and a flat collar, martingale, or no pull harness. Gentle leaders and snoot loops are also great for dogs that pull a great deal, as control of the head is sometimes more effective when the dog is learning to walk quietly on a lead. Soft harnesses are great for small and toy breeds. A roll of bags for pottying your pooch is also part of your leash equipment.
You will need a treat pouch which fastens to your waist by belt or clip and can hopefully close when you bend down, so the treats do not fall out. This is really important when bending frequently for smaller dogs. Bring a small portable toy, or ball that your dog enjoys. A tug also works well for some breeds.
Bring water, a small bowl, and a small blanket or mat that rolls up if requested. This would be for a “place” exercise. Yes, you may need a small bag for all of your great stuff, but that makes it really easy! You can leave the bag stashed away from your dog’s reach, and have it all together whenever the mood strikes to practice and have fun with your pet. Don’t be surprised if in just two weeks, your dog knows that the bag means fun.
Relieve Your Dogs Stress
Keep your voice upbeat and happy when taking your dog to class. The worst thing is to be stressed after work or if you are running late. It really won’t help the situation and your dog will feel that stress and that will not help the learning process.
Remember to wear tennis shoes or sport shoes, not flip flops or open-toed sandals. This is your chance to get exercise, have fun and gain a bond with your canine pal.
Have a great class!
