13/04/2020
Proper Training Equipment & Attire:
It is important for the handler to have all advantages possible to ensure the learning process is successful. Having the right 'tools' and wearing the 'proper clothes' is the first step in becoming a good handler.
Leads: When handling a mid to large dog I perfer leather leads that have been softened with coat after coat of saddle soap. My preference is a 5' x 3/4" latigo or harness leather natural color, not black, with a brass bolt snap. Even when handling small dogs I have 5' x 1/2" leads with small brass bolt snaps. It makes sense, nylon and rope leads are not as comfortable in your hands.
Collars: Flat; Martingale; Choker; Prong: ( The dog will tell us which collar he/she needs) *never a harness (unless you want your dog to pull a sled or is needed for breed specific such as bassett)
My initial evaluation tells me what type of collar your dog needs. This is based on the dogs age, maturity and hardness (genetic pain tolerance). When it comes to chokers and prongs I prefer Herm Springer name brand. They are the best, and I like the smaller gage ones. Remember: some dogs will never require a choker, or a prong, some will. (Nothing wrong with prong or e-collar if taught how to used properly)
Attire: Wear sturdy shoes, running or hiking type. No sandals, croc's or flipflops.
Wear pants that you not afraid to sit on the floor with and some type of top that has pockets for proper reward presentation.
Proper Reward Presentation: When I speak of reward it can be any of these three, a ball, a tug or a treat . The reward should come from right side of the handler and be presented to the dog quickly for 'good behavior' . I call this 'baiting'. It is not easy, but I try to teach my clients this method.
