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Showing posts with label ACCESSORIES. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ACCESSORIES. Show all posts

Friendly Dog Collars - Review


How often has it happened that you and your dog are enjoying a nice walk together, obeying leash laws and all of the sudden an unleashed dog comes barrelling at you out of nowhere? It happens to us on nearly every walk and there are some repeat offenders! Usually, their owner is not far away and will offer some vague excuse at why their dog is unable to wear a collar or leash... and at that stage I have to bite my tongue!

But their dog is only half of the equation isn’t it? Your dog could be a shy dog, an anxious dog (we have one of these), a leash reactive dog (we have one of them too), a blind or deaf dog, or you may be practicing some training exercise which requires your dog's full attention. This not the time to be distracted by complete strangers hailing you from the other side of the street, joggers or even bike riders on the footpath, creeping up on you...

Thankfully we discovered an Australian company Friendly Dog Collars offering a fantastic range of colour-coded (based on the simple traffic light system) collars, harnesses and leashes, that clearly spell out our dog’s temperament to the world.

Not only can these highly visual collars and leashes provide an extra safeguard against potential incidents and attacks but most importantly, they may help other dog owners realise that it is irresponsible to let their pooch run around uncontrolled ...




The range has been expanded and now includes 10 separate collections covering any possible situation (Blind, Deaf, Service Dog, Friendly, Nervous, Caution, No Dogs, Do Not Feed, Training or Adopt Me, which is great conversation starter for foster carers).

Each collection features specific colour coding and wording with six items in each range, depending on your dog’s needs.


The collars, harnesses and leashes are made of a super strong polypropylene webbing with large bold lettering that can be seen from a distance.

The collars come in two different styles (a standard clip collar and a half clip collar or martingale style) and the sizes can be adjusted to fit your dog. The extra large width (4 cm) adds visibility to the wording on the collar.

The adjustable strap harness is fully adjustable and will suit the most common breeds from Jack Russell Terrier to Rottweiler (fitting chests ranging from 59-92 cm).

Also available are the matching leashes, which feature very comfy neoprene handles.


For those cold rainy days, there is also a reflective weatherproof coat with the printed words visible on both sides.

WHAT WE LIKE

Sporting our bright yellow "Nervous" collar/harness/leash combo on our recent outings, I found it a huge relief not to have to explain why our rescue dog needed some extra space on the footpath as he often gets anxious if someone walks forcefully towards him and tries to make direct eye contact. 


All the products are machine washable at 30ÂșC (you can wrap them in a towel or an old pillowcase). All products must be rinsed well in freshwater after their use in saltwater.

PRICE & WHERE TO BUY

RRP: $33.95 for the adjustable strap harness; from $22.95 for the slip collar; from $24.95 for the leash (available in 60cm, 120cm or 180cm).


For more information, please visit www.friendlydogcollars.com.au


Product gifted by Friendly Dog Collars for editorial consideration.



Have you tried this range? What did you think? We’d love to hear your honest opinion. You can leave your review in the comment section below or share pictures and videos of your dog wearing this LED collar on our social media pages. 

EzyDog SnakPak Treat Bag Review


The EzyDog SnakPak is a treat bag with a magnetic closure and it clips around your waist for convenience.

The magnetic opening system provides a simple and rapid access to our dog's favourite treats during training sessions. 


For the fashion-conscious the SnakPak is small enough to be inconspicuous so you may decide to wear it also during your daily walks as we have started doing. With an overall volume of 650ml, there is plenty of space not only to carry dog treats but also all other dog walking essentials: dog waste bags, keys, smartphone etc.

We wear ours attached around our waist using the adjustable strap but you can remove it and instead attach your EzyDog SnakPak using the twin belt clips located at the rear of the pack. 
For tips on how to attach and use the SnakPak, you can watch the demonstration video below:




MAIN FEATURES 
  • A magnetic closure provides a fast and simple access to rewards during training. No more treat spillage when you bend to pick up the ball during a game of fetch!
  • 2 methods to attach the SnakPak treat pouch: you can use the twin belt hooks located at the rear of the pack. This will stabilise the bag around your waist or you can use the adjustable webbing waist strap. 
  • Internal pull-up liner for a wipe clean. You can basically turn the inside of your treat bag out and wipe it with a damp cloth and leave to air dry.
  • The front zip pocket is waterproof. There is also a little clip inside to attach your keys for extra safety if you decide to grab another item out of the pocket.

WHAT WE LIKE
  • A range of funky colours to choose from: Blue, Black, Orange and our favourite Red
  • The front zip closure enabling us to store our keys or money when we take our dogs for a walk 
  • The high-quality we’ve come to expect from this brand and this item did not disappoint.

PRICE AND WHERE TO BUY

RRP: $32.95. For more details, visit www.ezydog.com.au 

Dog Training: Accessories Ideas

Training your dog is a long journey on which you will need a few helpful (and why not funky) supplies. These days the choice of branded accessories and equipment available to dog owners is endless but this guide may give you a place to start.


#1. The Treat Pouch


Ezydog - SnakPak-Pro Treat Bag

With the EzyDog SnakPak-Pro you’ll have everything you need to train your dog in one comfy accessory (it holds up to 750ml). You’ve got a waterproof oversized lined interior that you can pull up and easily wash out - plus magnetic closures that provide quick smart access to your goodies. 

There’s also a front waterproof zip closure and hip belt pockets where you can store your keys, phone or money. Finally you’ve got a doo bag dispenser for when business is done.

For more information, visit www.ezydog.com.au


DOOG - Good Dog Treat Pouch



DOOG's Good Dog Treat Pouch was designed with the assistance of professional dog trainers to have all the important features.

The treat pouch inner is removable and washable, meaning you no longer have to walk around with a stinky treat bag. The pouch is designed to stay open for quick access and can be easily closed by using the velcro closure or string pull.

Made from all weather, durable nylon the DOOG Good Dog Treat Pouch also features two inner pockets, one for your poo bags and another for your keys or cash. Like all DOOG bags, it comes with 20 free Tidy Bags, all ready to go.

For more information, visit www.doog.com.au


#2. Training Collar


Adaptil - Training Collar

The Adaptil Collar is easy to use and convenient as it releases the dog appeasing pheromone constantly (even when the dog is outside). The dog’s body temperature and close contact warm the collar and encourages the diffusion of pheromones into the local environment. 

The collar can be used for training as well puppy socialisation or stressful situations (travelling on long journeys, kennelling or anxiety caused by loud noises – fireworks or thunderstorm phobia). The collars last up to 4 weeks.

For more information, visit the www.adaptil.com/au


EzyDog - Checkmate Martingdale Collar

If you are training your dog or if you just need that extra bit of control, but you're concerned about the discomfort of a choke chain or slip collar this martingale style collar could be just what you're after.

Unlike slip collars and choke chains, the EzyDog Checkmate collar tightens only enough to give your dog a signal without tightening enough to cause your dog discomfort.

The buckle closure is super strong so once it's adjusted to fit the collar won't slip over your dog's head. The Checkmate also has reflective trim to keep your dog visible and safe for evening outings.

For more information, visit the www.ezydog.com.au


#3. Training Leash



The “Training” Leash from Friendly Dog Collars is a double layered washable Lead and spells out to the world that your dog is learning new things. This is a high-quality lead and is made of a very strong polypropylene webbing with white embroidered lettering. 

Four models are available with various lengths (60cm, 120cm, 180cm and a 208cm double-ended lead for walking two dogs together or simply for tethering)

For more information, visit www.friendlydogcollars.com.au



#4. Clicker Training

A clicker is simply a small plastic device that makes a distinctive "click" sound when pressed. The clicker has no value or meaning of its own but can quickly be conditioned to represent access to "good things" to your dog.


The i-Click dog training clicker is a must-have training tool for sound-sensitive pets: it is quieter than other brands and perfect for use inside the house or flat. 

It is also small enough to hide in your palm and is very ergonomic as you only need to apply a small amount of pressure.

For more information, visit www.clickertraining.com



Starmark - Triple Crown Clicker

Using the Star Mark Clicker is an easy and fun way to shape and reward positive behaviors in your dog. It is based on the scientific principles of Classical conditioning and Operant conditioning, and its ergonomic design makes it comfortable to use. For more information on how to use the Star Mark Clicker, read the step-by-step guide that comes with the Clicker.

RRP: $6.95 from www.vetnpetdirect.com.au and other online pet stores.


#5. Dog Training Books

Getting Started: Clicker Training for Dogs
by Karen Pryor

From the author of Don't Shoot the Dog!, this book is must have for those learning clicker training. Clicker training is not about the clicker or about the food. 

It is about the reinforcement presented with correct timing in such a way that information is communicated between trainer and pet. Together you and your dog will learn a new way of interacting. 

This newest version includes photographs that illustrate the training exercises. 
Paperback100 pages
Publisher: Sunshine Books, 1st August 2005 




The Cautious Canine - How to Help Dogs Conquer Their Fears
by Patricia B. McConnell


So many behavioural problems in dogs result from fear, but fear-based problems can become worse if treated incorrectly. 

This booklet provides a step-by-step dog training program of desensitising and counter classical conditioning. It can help you solve minor dog problems and prevent serious ones, whether your dog's fears include the vacuum cleaner, people with hats, or the stranger at the door. 

Covered are the oh-so-important details related to identifying exactly what triggers your dog, creating a step-by-step treatment plan, monitoring your progress, and why you need to treat the fear and not just your dog's reaction to the fear. This booklet has helped thousands of dogs and their owners.


Paperback30 pages
Publisher: McConnell Publishing Limited, 1st June 2005

RRP: $13.95 at www.booktopia.com.au


#6. Training Vest


The Major Dog Training Vest is a high-quality vest (100% Polyester), ideal for training sessions or daily walks with your dogs.

It provides lots of pockets for a variety of utensils. It also features a separate treats pocket which can be attached to either the right or left side pocket.

The fleece lining is easy to remove with a couple of zips so you will be able to wear this jacket in the summer or winter

It is available in 4 sizes: S/M/L/XL 

For more information, visit www.majordog.com.au

Other things to consider when purchasing accessories or equipment for your dog are the breed, size and age of your dog. As the saying goes ‘you get what you pay for’. Investing in good-quality accessories and training equipment made from high-quality materials will save you money in the long term.

Please note that Australian Dog Lover does not necessarily endorse or recommend any of the commercial products listed in this article and they are listed for informational purposes only.