Training your fur kid is an essential part of being a pet parent. By training your fur kid, you are able to build their confidence, provide mental stimulation as well as strengthen the bond the two of you will share.

Our dogs bring us joy, companionship and a sense of pride so when they continually disobey or exhibit behavioral issues, it can be a constant source of stress for both us and them.

We’ve put a list together of products, tips and tricks that will assist in training your fur kid. Make sure you give careful consideration to choosing the right training aids to help you through the process.

Walking your dog:

There are a few different options you could look at when deciding on the best suited form of walks.

Basic Collar and Lead – This is by far the most conventional, well-known system to most pet owners and has many advantages. These include the large availability and choice as well as cost-effectiveness and convenience. Collars, along with name tags tend to be a popular choice as many pet parents often leave them on their fur kid, making it an easy way to identify them if they were to ever get lost.

Harnesses – Fast becoming a favourite among pet parents. This system works well for many dogs, as the pressure is directed away from the neck and placed across the back or around the chest, depending on the design and thus prevents injury. It also allows for a bit more control for those pups that tend to be excitable, strong or those that pull.

The Halti Head Collar – The Halti aids in the training and management in dogs that really pull hard and are difficult to control. It is a head collar that somewhat resembles a halter worn, to lead a horse around. The Halti Headcollar’s main purpose is to provide better control around the dog’s head as it reduces pulling.

Potty Training:

What might seem like a daunting task at first isn’t as complicated as it may seem. The key to getting your fur kid house trained is through diligence and consistency.

Be consistent with house training – Consistency is key in house training your pet. Make sure to take your pup out at regular intervals in a controlled environment so that they know they can do their business in a calm setting.

Accidents do happen – If an accident does happen, which it will, then you need to act fast and clean up the accident. Use an odour cleaner to get rid of the smell so your dog does not form a habit of relieving itself in the same spot in the house.

Reward for good behaviour – Positive reinforcement is a great way to get your pup to learn good behaviour. Never punish a puppy physically with punishment as they are still learning the rules and could learn to be afraid of you.

Choosing the right place to socialize your pup

Socialising is a big part of your pets upbringing and without it can cause social anxiety and sometimes aggression towards other animals and even humans.

Here are a few tips on how to socialize your pet:

Take your pup on daily walks – Taking your pet out into unfamiliar places is a good way for your pet to learn about other environments and to meet other people and other dogs.

Expose your pup to a variety of other dogs – Letting your dog meet a variety of other dogs is a great way for your dog to learn how to socialise with other dogs and also other humans. This will lead to your dog learning how to cope in environments with other dogs and be happy and comfortable around other animals.

Take your puppy to training classes – Puppy training is a great way for your dog to meet other animals in a controlled environment.

Go-to Training Must-Haves

Treats: Having treats on hand during the training process will help you to reward good behaviour. Did you know you can find treats specific to training? Unlike regular treats, training treats are smaller, more chewy and palatable. An important aspect that allows pet parents to reward their pet without expanding their pup’s waistline. Plus, it’s easy to store in a treat bag or pouch during the training process!

Clickers – Clicker training is a form of positive reinforcement dog training. The clicker communicates the exact moment your dog does what you want. With clicker training, you can easily and effectively teach your dog all kinds of basic and advanced commands and tricks. It’s fast and easy to learn how to clicker train your dog.