Collar:
Knowing your collar is a start. What kinds of collars are there? There are basic flat collars that go around the neck, a martingale collar, a choke collar, a metal prong or pinch collar, a smart collar, head collar, show collar, and harness. A collar can be braided, leather, plastic, LED, nylon, cloth, metal, brass, neoprene, flat, or rolled and embellished in a million ways. 

And just for fun – what color? With or without a nameplate/tag or I.D. built into the collar some way? Bows? Flowers? Bandanas?  With these choices comes the question of quality, material, and understanding exactly what is needed.

As mentioned before there is a choke collar commonly used for training that comes in a chain, rope style, or leather. The type of chain can affect how smoothly the action of the collar is or if the collar moves in a jerky manner. There are many different kinds of chain choke collars such as a Jewelers or curb link, flat link, thick Cuban link, rhinestone lock buckle cut link, fur saver link, snake link or basic round, simple link collar. In addition there is a vast amount of ornamentation possible with these collars. 
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A martingale collar is also known as a no-slip or limited-slip collar and is a popular choice.  This is our go-to for training until the puppy has been "trained" then they graduate into a harness. A harness offers several bonuses including something no collar can give, a gentler way to quickly scoop up your dog in an emergency like a dog attack scenario.  

Harness: 
If a harness is the buyer’s choice then where the clip is located is critical. I recommend a lightweight mesh harness with a wide chest strap and a clip on the back. It should fit close to the body neither too tight or too loose.  The clip on the back is ideal for Havanese because in an emergency situation there is less damage done to the esophagus or trachea and the spine, neck, laryngeal nerve, fore or hind legs. If the clip chest instead of the back and you have to pull your dog to safety you will create a situation where your dog could bite you due to the sudden chaos of the situation. 

Clasps:
There is a variety of clasps used in harnesses and collars from a break-away clasp, side quick-release clasp, side or slide release clasp, and buckle (prong) clasp. Like collars, clasps come in a variety of materials from rustproof, waterproof, metal to plastic. Usually near a clasp there is the ring where the leash attaches. 

Leash:
A traditional training leash is 4ft.-6 ft. long with a looped handhold at one end and a fastener at the other end. Be aware leashes come in many lengths and multiple widths. Materials include nylon, rope, braid, leather,  flat/ribbon, and other choices, colors or prints. It is possible to buy attractive matching leash and harness sets. I do not recommend retractable leashes. I prefer a 1/2" leash for these small dogs because the leashes carry a weight to the dog's neck area. 

Leash fasteners come in many configurations: trigger snap, bolt lock (most common), bolt snap or round eye bolt snap and bolt snap with swivel head (most popular), double-sided bolt snap hook, lobster clasp hooks, antique brass style bolt locks or simple lanyard hook (strongly not recommended).

Treat Pouch, Tote, or Bag?
A treat pouch is an easier and less messy way to carry training treats. A treat pouch is a bag that attaches to the belt via loop or carabiner clip usually. The pouch ranges from a simple design to an ultra-fashionable material and styling statement with conveniences such as additional pocket(s), zippered compartments or even a hinged opening, etc.!

Treats & Caution
We like freeze-dried dog treats with ingredients that you know and not umpteen syllables in what seems to be, a foreign language. We mentioned in a previous post that when it comes to training we use freeze-dried beef lung and freeze-dried chicken. Make sure that your treats are made in the USA. The pieces should be the size of a blueberry or cheerio. When training, it is better use a set specific treats to give your dog something to look forward to. We say set, because if you mix it up from time to time it keeps it interesting for your dog. 

Frame of mind:
The trainer’s frame of mind, voice, and attitude. Your dog picks up on your emotions and can reflect them back. It is a waste of time if you come into training bothered and not focused on making this time a positive experience for your dog. By positive, or ‘crafted experience,’ I mean to purposely and patiently teach your dog with gentleness and an upbeat attitude. Bear in mind, this is a new adventure for your dog. Make it fun with plenty of praise and age or experience-appropriate responses for the dog with treats and petting to create an experience the dog enjoys. 

Impact:
This enjoyment leads into the next session as one for the dog to anticipate fun versus dread. If it is fun for the dog, hopefully, it is fun for the trainer and the lessons move more quickly and smoothly. Also please be sure the walking surface will not burn your dog’s feet.
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References:
“7 Best Harnesses for Small Dogs [2022 Reviews]: Tiny & Terrific!” K9 Of Mine, 9 Oct. 2019, https://www.k9ofmine.com/best-harness-for-small-dogs/.

Dogcollarsharnessesandleashes. “Types of Dog Leash Fasteners.” Dog Collars Harnesses and Leashes, 18 Apr. 2022, https://dogcollarsharnessesandleashes.com/types-of-dog-leash-fasteners/.

Karen AndersonUpdated by Margeaux Baulch Klein, et al. “The 10 Best Small Dog Harnesses: Your Complete Guide.” The Dog People by Rover.com, 12 Nov. 2021, https://www.rover.com/blog/reviews/small-dog-harnesses/.

Nicole CosgroveNicole is the proud mom of Rosa. “10 Best Dog Harnesses for Small Dogs [Reviews 2022 ].” Hepper, 27 Mar. 2022, https://www.hepper.com/best-dog-harness-for-small-dogs/.

Phenix, Annie, et al. “What to Do When an off-Leash Dog Approaches Your Leashed Dog.” Dogster, 2 July 2021, https://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/what-to-do-when-an-off-leash-dog-approaches-your-leashed-dog.

“Spot the Difference: Front Clip versus Back Clip Harnesses.” Andrea Arden Dog Training, 18 Oct. 2016, https://andreaarden.com/dog-training/spot-the-difference-front-clip-versus-back-clip-harnesses/.

Stregowski, Jenna. “Which Dog Collar Is Best for Your Dog?” The Spruce Pets, The Spruce Pets, 21 Mar. 2022, https://www.thesprucepets.com/different-types-of-dog-collars-1118613.

“Understanding Dog Training Collar Injuries.” VetInfo, https://www.vetinfo.com/dog-training-collar.html.

Vuckovic, Angela. “How to Discipline a Dog without Hitting, Advice and Tips.” Petfeed - Pet Care Tips, How-to Guides, Funny Stories, Comics, and Videos, Petfeed - Pet Care Tips, How-to Guides, Funny Stories, Comics, and Videos, 16 Nov. 2021, https://blog.petcube.com/dog-training/. 

10 COMMON PROBLEMATIC BEHAVIORS: 

1. Barking on leash: As with lunging, call your dog to you, shorten the leash and sharply reverse course. In this case, desensitization* is needed and distancing is necessary. Reward him when he’s quiet. 
2. Crazy Dance: Stand still. Let the dog work through the dance. When he settles, reposition, and try to walk again.
3. Everything Must Go Into The Mouth: A wonderful command that is not usually taught in the basics is “Leave It”. It is wonderful for many reasons and great to teach any puppy or dog.
4. Lunging: Call your dog to you, shorten the leash, and go in the opposite direction sharply. Desensitization needed.
5. Mouthing/Chewing the Leash: Choices: Get a chain-style leash. Add a collar and double leash your dog. See if he needs a toy in his mouth on a walk. Wipe your leash down with something that will not hurt the leash like vinegar. 
6. Overly Excited Dog: Play with your dog for about 30 minutes before your walk. A tired dog walks well.
7. Pulling: When your pup pulls on the leash, stop and be still. Do not pull back. Call him to you and reward him with a treat of praise. Try again.
8. Reactive Dog: The works: not listening, lunging, and barking. Do not Punish. Core reactions are often grounded in fear and the dog needs to be re-trained using counter conditioning. Includes safe distancing, gradient extreme treats, etc. Turning and walking in a different direction is one choice. Desensitization, re-direction and changing associations for the dog is critical.
9. Sitting: Hold your treat out in front of your pup and take a step forward. Call your pup. Give your pup the treat when he comes. Try again.
10. Sniffing: Let the dog sniff or not. Increasing your pace decreases the sniffing. Your dog enjoys sniffing.  

Desensitization:
Take the dog where they can see another dog but he is far away enough to be comfortable meaning not barking or lunging. When they are quiet, reward. Go Home. Next time move closer and do not reward barking/lunging. If you cannot put a stop to it within 3 attempts, go home and repeat another day. Increase and reinforce incentive such as a better treat, praise, etc.
 
Why Not Punish Bad Behavior? 
It is true that a dog relates scolding and physical punishment as something to be avoided but hitting, etc., a dog changes the dynamics of the relationship with your dog. Depending on the frequency and degree of punishment, your dog can change his view of you from a trusted and beloved friend to a relationship based on levels of fear without strong enough positive experiences to reinforce better behavior. Fear ferments and can grow creating other behavioral problems .

Brutal punishment can actually escalate bad behavior. This is unnecessary when there are viable and better working alternatives. From the start with your dog, you are given a blank slate. It is a stronger position to teach from a positive stand point than a negative frame of reference. 

Ideal training results in the dog's own good, healthy behavior and mindset. The goal is to teach, reinforce, and encourage the dog to choose what is desirable. The way to accomplish this is by reinforcing the desirable behaviors with treats, rewards, praise, patience, consistency, and repetition. Building positive connotations or memories is foundational for good behavior. Positive conditioning is called ‘positive obedience training’ [encouragement] versus ‘aversive’ [pain] obedience training. Whether his memories are episodic, self-aware or by association, his recall is clear. The response is not for the moment, but a lifetime while building a relationship on trust, love, memories, or knowledge.  

Sorting through the professionals:
There are many initials out there associated with a dog trainer. If the trainer does not have a certificate - they do not have the initials after their name. Many gifted trainers are not classically certified. Research and check references and documentation.  Please look for a qualified trainer to offer you and your dog more training choices if you are having problems. A dog learns in an individual way.  It is finding the one right way gleaned from several choices that makes the difference and allows the training move forward.
 
APDT – Association of Professional Dog Trainers
CBCC-KA – Certified Behavior Consultant, Canine, Knowledge Assessed
CCPDT- Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers
CDBC – Certified Dog Behavior Consultant
CDT – Certified Dog Trainer
CDTA - Certified Dog Trainer - Advanced
CPDT – Certified Professional Dog Trainer
CPDT-KA – Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed
CSDT – Certified Service Dog Trainer
IAABC – International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
IACP – International Association of Canine Professionals
NADOI – National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors
PDT- Professional Dog Trainer
PDTI – Professional Dog Training Instructor

Certified and Texas state licensed police/security dog trainer- see documentation
Master Dog Trainer – Self-Given Title

References:
“7 Best Harnesses for Small Dogs [2022 Reviews]: Tiny & Terrific!” K9 Of Mine, 9 Oct. 2019, https://www.k9ofmine.com/best-harness-for-small-dogs/.

Dogcollarsharnessesandleashes. “Types of Dog Leash Fasteners.” Dog Collars Harnesses and Leashes, 18 Apr. 2022, https://dogcollarsharnessesandleashes.com/types-of-dog-leash-fasteners/.

Karen AndersonUpdated by Margeaux Baulch Klein, et al. “The 10 Best Small Dog Harnesses: Your Complete Guide.” The Dog People by Rover.com, 12 Nov. 2021, https://www.rover.com/blog/reviews/small-dog-harnesses/.

Nicole CosgroveNicole is the proud mom of Rosa. “10 Best Dog Harnesses for Small Dogs [Reviews 2022 ].” Hepper, 27 Mar. 2022, https://www.hepper.com/best-dog-harness-for-small-dogs/.

Phenix, Annie, et al. “What to Do When an off-Leash Dog Approaches Your Leashed Dog.” Dogster, 2 July 2021, https://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/what-to-do-when-an-off-leash-dog-approaches-your-leashed-dog.

“Spot the Difference: Front Clip versus Back Clip Harnesses.” Andrea Arden Dog Training, 18 Oct. 2016, https://andreaarden.com/dog-training/spot-the-difference-front-clip-versus-back-clip-harnesses/.

Stregowski, Jenna. “Which Dog Collar Is Best for Your Dog?” The Spruce Pets, The Spruce Pets, 21 Mar. 2022, https://www.thesprucepets.com/different-types-of-dog-collars-1118613.

“Understanding Dog Training Collar Injuries.” VetInfo, https://www.vetinfo.com/dog-training-collar.html.

Vuckovic, Angela. “How to Discipline a Dog without Hitting, Advice and Tips.” Petfeed - Pet Care Tips, How-to Guides, Funny Stories, Comics, and Videos, Petfeed - Pet Care Tips, How-to Guides, Funny Stories, Comics, and Videos, 16 Nov. 2021, https://blog.petcube.com/dog-training/. ​​