Resources
At the Burren School for Dogs, we believe having the right tools makes training easier, safer, and more enjoyable. That’s why we provide a selection of recommended resources, all chosen because we trust and use them ourselves.
Recommended Reading – Hand-picked books to support your training journey.
Steve Mann, 2024. Easy Peasy Puppy Squeezy. All you need to know to train your dog. Publisher mango. A very easy, straightforward, sensible book you can come back to again and again. It provides practical methods to raise a confident and happy puppy.
Simone Muller, 2023. Hunting Together: Harnessing Predatory Chasing in Family Dogs through Motivation-Based Training (Predatory Substitution Training).
Simone Mueller, 2022. Rocket Recall. Don’t let your dog become self-employed, instead provide them with what they need! We all know that feeling when our dog would rather chase a rabbit or bird than listen and return to us. This books harnesses all those prey instincts and provides fun outlets that rely on you to be part of the game and that ensure your dog is fulfilled and happier and less obsessed with the rabbit in the distance.
Linda Michaels, 2022. The Do No Harm Training and Behaviour Handbook. A complete in-depth guide to raising dogs using ethical methods which gives a great understanding of meeting a dogs needs. Lot’s of problem shooting ideas and suggestions.
Online Resources
Useful articles, guides, and links to support positive,
force-free training.
Podcasts
YouTube
Equipment Guides
Tried and Tested Equipment for Safe, Effective Training.
Leads and Long Lines
The best type of lead you can invest in is a 2 metre training lead that has a clasp at either end and that can be used with a harness that has a front and back D ring. These type of leads will last you a long time and also allow your dog the distance they need to not feel frustrated on walks and to sniff. These leads can also be used for scent work as they allow the dog sufficient distance from you. If you are looking at practicing recall or giving your dog more freedom a 10 metre long line is great. They are also used for Mantrailing. Do not get confused with extendable leads, these are dangerous and encourage pulling. Long lines can be purchased with handles in numerous types of materials including biothane which is waterproof. They also come in different widths. If you have a small dog you will require a narrow long line to ensure it is not too heavy.
Watch the video by Battersea
Harness Conditioning and Type of Harness.
We recommend using a harness while walking your dog and undertaking dog sports to prevent any damage to their neck and cervical spine. Harnesses are now available to suit all breeds including lurchers, whippets and greyhounds.
A Y shaped harness with adjustable straps is the best shape to purchase for your dog. It is important that it does not restrict the natural movement of the dog at the shoulders. If you are practising loose lead walking, a D ring on the front and back is beneficial. A handle on the top is a good for sports. We recommend the following brands but measuring your dog correctly is key and even better if you try them on before you buy.
- Perfect fit Harness – made to measure
- Ruffwear
- Tellington TTouch harness
- Dogscreek
- Snootifull Hound – 3 point harness for sight hounds
How to fit a Dog Harness
How to fit your Puppy’s PerfectFit Harness
Muzzle Fitting, Purchasing and Conditioning
Muzzles are used for numerous reasons and not just for reactive dogs, such as having a restricted breed, a dog that scavenges and eats things on walks or having a dog with a high prey drive, or simply going to the vet. While there is no such thing as a biteproof muzzle, we would recommend muzzles that are made from a firm mouldable plastic style basket muzzle to give the best fit.
Not all muzzles are the same. A muzzle should be well fitted and allows tha dog to fully open their mouth or to pant fully so they can drink and take treats and even play while wearing them. We love the Muzzle Movement that are one of the only muzzles that allow full pant room, are bright and designed for lots of different breeds including Bully breeds. When you purchase your muzzle take the time to condition your dog so they like their muzzle and they do not feel frightened or irritated.
Watch the video from the IMDT
Muzzles
Muzzle Movement
Harnesses
Perfect Fit Harnesses
Treats and Chews
Atlas and Tail
Accessories
Mats and Pouches
Dog Friendly Accommodation
Are you thinking of travelling to join us? Why not make the most of this scenic location and stay in the award winning fully equiped, eco Wild Cabins in the Burren Nature Sanctuary. An adult only zone with you and your dog, surrounded by nature.
Check back regularly
We’ll be updating this page with new items and resources to support you and your dog.
Contact us
We’d love to welcome you and your dog to the Burren School for Dogs—get in touch to start your journey today.