Wind River Training Community

The right tool for each dog/handler team is dependent on so many factors, however no matter which tool you use we want to make sure it is the best-designed, most reliable, and highest-quality available!

Herm Sprenger Prong Collar – PURCHASE LINK

• This brand is the only one we recommend due to its quality and design. The prong collars available at most pet stores are poor quality and not recommended!
• The size of the collar you buy is determined mostly by your dog’s coat length, not your dog’s size. You can always add/remove links to adjust to your dog’s neck size. The most common prong collar size is the 3.0mm prong, but speak with your trainer if you are not sure which size is best.

Starmark Training Collar – PURCHASE LINK

• This is a milder version of the prong collar above. This collar is a great option for dogs who need a little more correction than what a slip lead or martingale can offer. It offers gentle, clear communication between dog and handler. 
• Also a great option for dogs who may be sensitive to metal, as it’s made from a plastic composite

Slip Lead – PURCHASE LINK

• A slip lead can be an excellent choice for mild to moderate pullers, or for those who practice a lot of off leash recreation. The slip leash can provide mild to moderate correction and can be custom fit to each dog 
• Can be easily converted into a transitional head halter leash for dogs who are more intense pullers

Martingale Collar with Quick Release – PURCHASE LINK

• If your dog is only a mild puller on-leash, this is the collar for you! It is an escape-proof collar but MUCH safer than a choke chain. The action of the chain loop when your dog begins to pull provides a mild correction but the sound of the chain moving can also serve as an audible cue that your dog needs to slow down or come back to you.
• The all-fabric versions of these collars make great every-day collars for dogs with a lot of hair around their necks that can easily slip their collars.
• Measure your dog’s neck size! Believe it or not, the majority of dogs wear a size small. If you’re not sure, ask your trainer! 

Head Halter  – PURCHASE LINK

• These operate on a similar principle to a halter on a horse; by controlling the head of an animal, you control the rest of the body. Head collars can be excellent tools for dogs who are desensitized to a prong collar or who use their mouth inappropriately. They give the most overall control of the dog.
• There are various styles of head halter available, and some fit certain dogs’ faces better than others. The main styles are the Gentle Leader, the Halti, and the Perfect Pace. (Gentle Leader in purchase link)
• We can also convert a slip lead into a head halter, which becomes a more versatile, 2-in-1 tool

• Multiple pockets for different treat values, large enough to hold a full training sessions-worth (or a tennis ball), back zippered pocket for cash, cell phone, etc. Magnetic closure. This is our favorite! 

PetSafe Treat Pouch – Purchase Link

• A close second — multiple pockets and a spring-loaded open/closure mechanism.

The type of treats you use for training is going to depend on what your dog finds valuable. Some dogs are so motivated by food they will work for their kibble. Other dogs need a higher value reward. Here are a few of our favorite options:

 Kibble Trail Mix

Since your dog has to eat anyway, you can take a portion of your dog’s meal and create a training “trail mix” by mixing in a few higher value treats to make the options more interesting. We generally make our ratio at least 50% kibble, if not a little more, with a variety of other treats mixed in. You can then take this mix and microwave it for 20-40 seconds to melt any fats or oils and give it a good mix around – now everything tastes like treats!

Treat Recommendations:

• Happy Howie’s Meat Rolls
• Fresh Pet Dog Food
• Stella & Chewy’s Raw Blend Dog Food
• Freeze-Dried Meats (Multiple varieties!)
• Nudges Jerky Treats (Multiple Flavors Available)
• Use a different flavor of your dog’s regular food (i.e. beef instead of chicken, etc.)
• Hot Dogs
• String Cheese

Notice that many of our treat recommendations are complete-nutrition dog foods themselves – we consider these options a win-win: we can still train with high-value food without compromising our dog’s health and nutrition needs. There are lots of other creative options, and ultimately, the best rewards are the ones your dog actually likes, so feel free to experiment!