Puppy Training Devices

Training a puppy requires hard work, dedication, plenty of time, patience and, sometimes, money. Though there are cases of easily trained canines, not every dog responds to the typical methods. A training "device" does not necessarily mean it will magically make training a puppy easier but a training aid can be helpful during the process.

  1. Clicker Training

    • Clickers are small devices that make a distinct clicking sound when pressed. Pet supply stores, veterinarian offices, obedience training centers and online retailers sell clickers. With clicker training, you teach the dog to associate certain good behaviors with the sound of the clicker. When you press the clicker during good behavior, you reward the dog either with a treat or praise. Use clicker training to designate good behavior such as performing tricks (sit, stay, roll over) or urinating outside.

    Spray Bottles

    • Use a spray bottle to discipline a misbehaving puppy, such as when he chews on a throw rug or jumps onto furniture. Puppies dislike getting sprayed, so this method helps deter bad behavior. However, some puppies will treat the spray bottle as a game. In these instances, use a different discipline method.

    Dog Whistle

    • A dog whistle can deter a puppy from bad behavior. Dog whistles emit a high pitch only detectable by dog ears when blown. The pitch distracts the puppy from his bad behavior. Dog whistles also help train puppies to perform tricks such as "sit" or "come" or to change direction during training for agility or herding.

    Crate

    • Another training method, crates aid in potty training a puppy. A proper sized crate allows the dog enough room to move around but not enough room for separate sleeping and potty areas. Crate training works because dogs do not want to soil their sleeping area. Always take the puppy outside after opening the crate, which teaches the puppy to go to the bathroom outside rather than indoors.

    Potty Pads

    • In some situations, such as living in a 50-story building, it's difficult to get the puppy outside quickly. Potty pads, treated with a scent to attract the puppy into eliminating on the pad, can benefit the owner. Other options include old newspapers, but owners should be cautious because the dog may learn to eliminate on any paper laying out on the floor.

    Leashes

    • Leash training should begin at an early age for best results. This device keeps the puppy or dog under control whenever venturing outside the home. Use the leash for walk training or for puppy obedience training, as the leash gives the owner full control over the dog. The leash also works as a safety device, ensuring the dog will not run off.

    Collars

    • Apart from the standard collar, there are also shock collars and choke collars. Both shock and choke collars deter a puppy from bad behavior. Shock collars controlling bad behavior both on and off the leash, while choke collars only work when the dog is on a leash. Choke collars temporarily "choke" the dog to deter him; choke collars, though, can also be dangerous, resulting in damage or injury to the neck of the dog if used improperly. Both collars are generally a last resort for unruly puppies who have been difficult to train.