K9 dog Training Equipment
Training with a collar is usually based on an uncomfortable correction involving jerks, prongs, or shocks. An evolution in thought among a new generation of trainers has led to more humane and intelligent methods like front-attach harnesses and head collars such as Gentle Leader. All collars and harnesses are only tools; you have to find the one that's right for your dog and its temperament and devote the necessary time to training. A head collar may not be suitable for a fearful dog that panics, and an aggressive dog has additional issues that need to be addressed separately. But for a friendly, well-adjusted dog that simply needs to be taught to walk calmly, a harness can be a safe and gentle training device. Gentle Cues and Positive Reinforcement Many modern harnesses feature basic but clever techniques like the front-attachment. When a dog lunges, it causes a slight tightening or pressure across the chest and behind the legs. These gentle but odd feelings cease when the dog stops pulling or lunging. Combined with positive reinforcement, most dogs quickly associate pulling with disagreeable sensations. While easy to initiate, harness training, like all training, requires consistency and patience. The majority of owners who try harness training experience satisfactory results. Just to be safe, never leave a harness on a dog that will be unattended for more than a few hours. Continue to use a collar for tags and identification. --- FUNCTION OR FASHION: HOW TO CHOOSE A HARNESS There are many reasons to purchase a dog harness, so be sure to consider all the features you may require. Just by choosing a harness, you're already taking a positive step in protecting your dog's health.
--------------- Collar Pressure and the Trachea Miniature breeds in particular are prone to a congenital health problem known as Collapsed Trachea. Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, Maltese, Pugs, and Pomeranians are at high risk, but the condition happens in larger breeds as well. The trachea, or windpipe, is a soft, flexible tube supported by rigid cartilage, almost like a vacuum cleaner hose. In predisposed dogs, the cartilage can collapse, triggered by pulling on a collar or jerking of a leash. The airway is obstructed, restricting or cutting off the dog's oxygen supply with potentially serious repercussions. The condition can also be provoked by excitement, over-heating, exercise, and age. While it can usually be managed with medication and activity changes, it's prudent to avoid irritating the trachea with a well-designed harness that rests on the breastbone. Be sure to see your veterinarian if your dog regularly exhibits choking, gagging or coughing behaviors or makes a honking sound. These signs can indicate illness or a medical condition. Protect Your Dog's Eyesight New research has noted a substantial increase in Intraocular Pressure (IOP) in dogs pulling against a collar. Raised IOP could contribute to corneal injury and Glaucoma, which causes irreversible damage to the optic nerve. Long-term treatment options are mostly limited to surgical procedures, so it's critical to keep the eyes healthy by avoiding unnecessary pressure at the dog's throat and neck. More Health Benefits of a Harness Veterinarians are more frequently recognizing neck injuries in dogs that are a result of leash and collar training methods advocating strong jerks for control and command. Newer, more humane training methods utilizing a harness can end pulling, teach a dog to walk calmly, and eliminate risk for neck and eye injuries. Just to be safe, never leave a harness on a dog that will be unattended for more than a few hours. Continue to use a collar for tags and identification. Dog Collars, Leather Dog collars, Spiked dog collars, Padded dog collars, Best dog collars, Large dog collars, prong dog collars - Dog training equipment for professional k9 schutzhund trainers |











