Dogs are lifelong learners. Training your pup helps build their confidence, strengthens your bond, and keeps them mentally stimulated. It also turns out that positive reinforcement goes a long way in helping your dog stay healthy and happy for the long run, according to the findings of some studies. Keep those treats handy for letting them know they’ve done a good job.
To teach your dog, Cabela’s has great gear for building good dog etiquette on walks, playing safely, behaving at the dog park, and even swimming.
Harness their potential
Want to avoid a tangled leash or a sore arm if your pup is a puller? This comfortable dog harness reduces stress on your four-legged pal’s neck and joints and increases your control during sidewalk run-ins with other dogs. It’s padded, adjustable, and elasticized for just the right fit.
Choose a durable leash with multiple clip options
A sturdy leash with a comfortable grip is essential for teaching your dog to be a well-behaved walker. This one has an upper clip if you like to walk your dog attached to your belt, plus a sturdy movable D-ring so you can customize your leash length. For dog training, this level of control is a safer bet than retractable leashes.
Credit: Browning
Minimize risk in stressful situations
Using a muzzle can be one of the hardest things for a pet parent to get past, however, contrary to how they look, they’re useful tools for training and keeping your pet safe. If your pup is still being socialized at the dog park and tends to show aggression, a muzzle can be a good tool. If your dog is anxious or hurt, they may bite or lick the area in pain, which can exacerbate the issue. A muzzle can help you get them to the vet without injury — just read these tips from the American Kennel Club first.
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Set boundaries at home
An in-ground fence lets your four-legged pal have the run of the yard, while letting them know their limits. This system works by sending a radio signal to the receiver collar and comes with 50 boundary training flags to mark their play zone.
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Help them doggy paddle safely
Some dogs take to swimming like a duck to water, but some don’t. If you’re teaching your fur baby how to swim or getting them more comfortable in the water, a flotation vest can make them less anxious and keep them safe, especially if you’re heading out on a boat or spending the day at a lake. Plus, is there anything cuter than a dog wearing a life jacket? We’ll wait.
Credit: Cabela’s
Set regular mealtimes
This durable, BPA-free, 18/8 stainless steel bowl has a nonslip ring on the bottom to keep it in place so meal time does into a crazy mess when your lovable chowhound is slobbering away. Most pet experts recommend stainless steel because it won’t break and it’s hygienic. And, just like your favorite human Yeti gear, this bowl is dishwasher-safe and designed to last.
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Get them used to commuting
Training your dog to be comfortable riding in a backpack is a great way to help them be a non-anxious traveler. This Kurgo rucksack is perfect for taking your tech and your pet with you wherever you go — hiking, subway, work. It has plenty of pockets like a laptop sleeve and iPad pocket, as well as ventilation and a removable, washable interior pad for keeping your furry friend comfy. Oh, and there’s a bottle opener.
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Keep them warm and dry
Maybe training your dog to look like the cutest hipster on the block isn’t a requirement, but we’re going to recommend it anyway. Made with the same quality as your human Carhartt jacket, this little chore coat is designed to keep your bestie warm and dry in rainy weather and has two little utility pockets for stashing their fave toy to take to the dog park.
Credit: Carhartt
