Power tool for puppies aims to build better dogs

Home improvement takes on a whole new meaning with Urban Puppy’s release of its innovative “Toolkit” – a new product designed to help raise healthy and happy dogs on the home front.

This comprehensive and easy-to-use training kit focuses on how best to socialize young puppies to their surroundings, so as to ensure that a new owner’s pet project won’t be ‘doggone’ a few months later. Developed for puppies 18 weeks and under, the Toolkit encourages people to establish the right kind of behaviours with their pets from the beginning – before puppy training class even starts.

“Our focus is on prevention,” said Urban Puppy President Peg van Dam, “and there’s no more critical time than when the puppy first comes into the home. All too often, people let undesirable behaviours set in from day one without realizing this can lead to later problems. The cute, unruly puppy grows into a problem dog, and the owner has missed the opportunity to build a good relationship.”

Jean Donaldson, founder of the San Francisco SPCA Academy for Dog Trainers and best-selling author of The Culture Clash - a book described as state-of-the-art in dog training and behaviour - agrees on the importance of early socializing. According to Donaldson, who says she will be recommending the product to her graduates and their clients, “The Urban Puppy kit helps dog owners take full advantage of an absolutely vital stage of development and have fun in the process. I love it!”

With approximately 40 per cent of all dogs surrendered to animal shelters during their first year in a new home, and 12 million euthanized for behavioural problems each year, Urban Puppy aims to reverse this trend. Drawing on colourful booklets, field cards, a social schedule, and a development poster, the Toolkit makes learning fun and interactive for both owner and dog.

“Our emphasis is on conditioning and rewarding good behaviour, and de-emphasizing aversive treatment,” said van Dam. “Within a single box we encompass a very powerful training approach. The Toolkit adopts the philosophies of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers , the Canadian Association of Professional Pet Dog Trainers , and the most progressive humane societies across North America.”

Focusing on five essential learning areas, the Toolkit teaches:

• Socialization – so puppies become comfortable with people, other dogs, and a variety of situations and environments;
• Prevention – by providing time-sensitive information and valuable exercises to teach bite inhibition, child proofing, spending time alone, etc.;
• Games – that focus the dog on the handler, imprint the owner’s leadership, and promote obedience;
• Junior Obedience – involving easy-to-follow techniques so the dog learns to “sit”, “stand”, “come”, lie “down” and walk on a loose leash; and
• House Training – by drawing on clear and simple instructions.

van Dam, who developed the Toolkit with long-time Toronto dog trainer Sydney Bleicher, say reaction to the product has been enthusiastic. She added that the kit is quickly being snapped up by vet clinics who are seeking something that closes the gap between the time a new puppy is brought home and formal puppy training begins.

“People realize that there’s nothing like this right now on the market,” she said. “It provides a valuable tool and fun way to interact with a new puppy, while in the end, both people and their dogs gain a much happier and more worthwhile experience.” The Urban Puppy Toolkit retails for $34.99 US and $49.99 CAN. and can be ordered by phone at (416) 465-1992. The Toolkit is now available to consumers through selected veterinarian offices. For more information, see pet training aids.

About The Author:

Colten Rice is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-pets.com. Pamper your pet and get up to date information on pet health, food, accessories, behavior, gifts and toys.