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

Rapid Rewards Treat Pouch – Purchase Link

• 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 of the treats we use are commercially available, and some we make ourselves. However, these are some of the most popular treats we use:

 

Primary Reward – Kibble Trail Mix

• Dogs need to eat anyway, so having a dog be willing to work for his/her own kibble is a great way to train. If your dog is motivated by their food, great! If not, you can create a trail mix of sorts by using the following simple recipe:
  • 2 parts kibble
  • 1 part chicken, hot dog, or other meat type product
  • 1 part FreshPet dog food, rolled food, or other commercial treat.

High-Value Rewards

Some dogs are not particularly food motivated, or may need something more valuable in new or difficult situations. Here are some ideas for higher-value rewards:

• True Chews Jerky Treats
• Nudges Jerky Treat
• Freeze Dried liver treats
• String cheese