Collection: Dogs Training & Behaviour Aids

Training your dog can be a difficult task, especially if they are a hyperactive puppy or a dog stuck in their old ways. However, with the help of Direct4Pet’s dog training and behavioural aids you will be on your way to a successfully trained dog in no time.

How to train a dog on leash?
Training your dog to walk on a leash properly without pulling can be hard, especially when it comes to larger, more energetic dogs who can pull on leashes quite aggressively when on walks. The most ideal way to train your dog to walk is by your side, as it ensures all walks are safe and enjoyable for both of you. The key to successful lead training is to use a 3-4 ft training lead and not a retractable or slip lead, as your aim is to encourage your dog to walk as close by your side as possible. 

To properly train your dog on a leash you must first get them to stand on the opposite side of the side you’re holding the leash on. To do this easily, hold the lead in one hand and a treat in the opposite hand, this allows for the leash to cross-over your body when they come to get the treat, this is the position they should stay on. 

From this position it is all about trial and error of commands and walking. Let your dog sniff the treats in your hand, raise your hand to your shoulder and give the command to walk, as they take one step forward with you, stop and give them a treat. This positive reinforcement and treat association will help to encourage the correct walking behaviour. 

Repeat these steps until your dog successfully walks with you by your side, this will take a lot of practice but patience and consistency is key. Read our ‘guide to buying dog collars and leashes’ for further information and top tips on lead training your dog.

How to clicker train a dog?
Clicker training is a popular method used to train dogs, but in order for it to work it’s important that it’s done correctly. You must make sure that whatever object you use for a clicker noise is not ever used out of context so that your dog does not get confused. Timing is everything when it comes to this form of training, you must make sure you time your clicks right - click at the exact moment your dog does the thing you have asked for in order to avoid confusion. 

The most important thing is that your dog learns that click equals reward - the next time you give them a treat, click your clicker and give them the reward straight away. Repeat this a few times before you start introducing commands, you want to get to a point where your dog looks at you and expects a reward as soon as you click.

Next, start with a simple common such as ‘sit’ - hold a treat in your hand and move it up over your dog's head, they should automatically sit and as soon as they do click and reward with a treat. Keep repeating this in short training sessions and work your way up to more commands over time until they are fully click-trained and able to recognise this noise as a reward for good behaviour.