How do I know which size Easy Walk™ Harness to buy?

The correctly sized harness for your dog is determined by their girth measurement, as measured from behind their front legs. If you have a dog with a particularly wide (e.g. Pit Bulls) or narrow chest (e.g. Greyhounds) you may want to take a closer look at our Tweener sizes, which are specifically designed for such dogs. With 8 sizes available, we absolutely have an Easy Walk Harness to fit your dog

How do I use the Easy Walk Harness?

If your dog forges ahead of you, gently pull the leash to the side to turn the dog towards you. As he stops pulling, be sure to release the tension on the leash. Use praise and reward your dog with treats and/or petting.

To slow your dog when he is pulling ahead, apply gentle pressure to the leash, pulling gently toward one side of the dog. Release the pressure on the leash when the dog is walking nicely next to you.

Can I use my Easy Walk Harness with a retractable leash?

We do NOT recommend using the Easy Walk Harness with a retractable leash. With a retractable leash, the dog is “rewarded” with additional leash when he pulls ahead. We want the dog to learn to NOT pull ahead. In addition, a retractable leash will always apply a slight constant pressure, teaching your dog it is okay to continue pulling.

The chest portion of my dog’s Easy Walk Harness gaps when he walks. How can I fix this?

Fit is crucial to the effectiveness of the Easy Walk Harness. The girth portion (made up of the shoulder and belly straps) provide the foundation for a good fit and must be snug. The chest strap should also be correctly fitted, to avoid any drooping or gaping when the dog walks. If the chest strap will not adjust enough to give you a proper fit that is parallel to the ground, your dog may be a candidate for one of our Tweener sizes.

How can I tell the straps apart?

Each piece of your harness has an identifying feature. The shoulder strap features an “Easy Walk” tag. The chest strap is clearly identified by the martingale loop and the D-ring attachment for the leash. The belly strap is a coordinating color.

Can I run with my dog, wearing an Easy Walk Harness?

Yes, but please be responsible! The Easy Walk Harness was created for making walks with your dog enjoyable and pull-free. Should you choose to run or jog with your dog, please be mindful of the possibility of chafing and discontinue use at the first sign of discomfort.

What happens if my dogs chews on his harness?

We guarantee the materials and workmanship of the Gentle Leader Easy Walk Harness, but we can’t keep your dog from chewing it! Please be sure to supervise your dog while he wears the Easy Walk Harness and store it safely when not in use. If your dog does chew the Easy Walk, we will happily replace it for a $5.95 fee (includes shipping). Call 888-640-8840 for details.

What if pulling isn’t my dog’s only issue?

For dogs with additional training issues like jumping, barking, and excessive pulling and lunging, we recommend the Gentle Leader Headcollar as it offers owners much greater control. We also recommend the Gentle Leader Headcollar for dogs that are shy, nervous or fearful. The soft, comfortable nose loop and the snug, high neck strap have a remarkable calming and reassuring influence for these dogs. Professionals and owners alike are amazed at the greater confidence these dogs show when wearing the Gentle Leader Headcollar.

Need a tool for dealing with more serious behavior problems such as aggression? We recommend the Gentle Leader Headcollar and the advice of a professional behaviorist, veterinarian, or trainer. The Gentle Leader Headcollar has been proven to be highly successful when incorporated into a behavior treatment and modification program.

What is a Treat Meter™?

The Treat Meter consists of inward facing; soft, adjustable rubber prongs that control the flow of treat dispersal. The flexible prongs move aside to allow treats or kibble to be stuffed inside the toy. As the dog plays, treats randomly fall through the opening. The prongs can be trimmed with scissors or nail clippers to increase the flow of treats. The Treat Meter is found in our Chuckle™, Squirrel Dude™, and Waggle™ toys.

What can you stuff in the Busy Buddy® toys?

Lots of things! Available in original bite size & small bite size, Liver Biscotti™ treats are the perfect hard treat for the Busy Buddy toys. Other ideas include smearing the Twist ‘n Treat™ with cream cheese, peanut butter, spreadable cheese or even liver paste. You can also plug the small suction hole in the Squirrel Dude with peanut butter and freeze chicken broth for an extra special treat. Load the Chuckle, Squirrel Dude and Waggle with hard biscuits for an extra-special treat. Pour your regular kibble into the Tug-a-Jug™ and make your dog work for his dinner! You’ll find you can stuff and smear all sorts of food and treats into the Busy Buddy toys!  We recommend that owners monitor their dogs while playing with the Busy Buddy toys and inspect toys frequently after play sessions for wear and tear.

How did Premier determine the Chew Strength Meter?

The Chew Meter was determined based on field testing. We tested a variety of “extreme chewers” to determine how well the toys stood up under vigorous chewing. If our most spirited and strongest chewers damaged the toy, we gave the toy a medium strength assessment. If the toy stood up under hearty chewing, it was given a hard strength assessment.

Due to the vast diversity of size, weight, strength, age, and activity level of dogs, there is no formula that can be used to calculate precise strength levels. The Chew Meter is not breed specific, rather it’s based on power and force of the individual dog’s chewing style.

I have an extremely tough chewer – my dog destroys most toys. Are any of the Busy Buddy toys suitable for my dog?

Our strongest toys are the Bouncy Bone™, Football and the Squirrel Dude. If you have a large dog that’s an extremely aggressive chewer, we also have a black Football that’s made of the strongest and toughest natural rubber. We recommend that owners monitor their dogs while playing with the Busy Buddy toys and inspect toys frequently after play sessions for wear and tear.

Which of your toys is indestructible?

While our Bouncy Bone, Football and Squirrel Dude toys are our strongest toys and will stand up to some of the toughest chewing, no toy is indestructible. We recommend that owners monitor their dogs while playing with the Busy Buddy toys and inspect toys frequently after play sessions for wear and tear.

What are the Busy Buddy toys made of?

The majority of our Busy Buddy toys are made of natural rubber. The Bouncy Bone also features durable nylon for the bone ends. The jug of the Tug-a-Jug consists of hard plastic that is able to withstand vigorous playing.

What is your replacement policy? What if I buy a toy that my dog destroyed?

We will happily replace a destroyed toy if the original toy purchased was the correct size for the breed of dog. Contact us at info@premier.com. For toy size recommendations, please see individual product pages.

How do I determine the correct size Fido Float® for my dog?

Check out our sizing instruction guide located here. If you have trouble locating the correct size, contact our customer service department at info@premier.com.

Do you have general size recommendations based on breeds?

Keep in mind these are general guidelines. Sizes vary by breed based on girth and length measurements. For a perfect fit, please see our sizing instruction guide, located here.

 

GENERAL SIZING BY BREED SMALL DOGS (Sizes Tiny – Extra-Small) Miniatures & Toys, Dachshunds MEDIUM DOGS (Sizes Small – Medium) Beagles, Small Terriers & Spaniels LARGE DOGS (Sizes Large – Extra-Extra-Large) Large Terriers & Spaniels, Pointers, Retrievers, Shepherds

How do you fasten the Fido Float to ensure a snug fit?

The Fido Float follows the contours of your dog preventing him from twisting, stepping or swimming out of the vest. Also features adjustable straps to fit comfortably to your dog’s girth.

Is there a weight limitation to the Fido Float?

No, there is not a weight restriction based on the size of the Fido Float. The vest features three layers of closed-cell foam ensuring buoyancy. If it fits, it floats!

Will your Float keep my dog’s head out of the water?

The Fido Float features a u-shaped buoyancy collar that sits a little lower on the vest, providing support and comfort for the dog’s neck and head. The design of the buoyancy collar ensures that the dog’s face stays above the water.

Is the Fido Float Coast Guard approved?

We did not seek Coast Guard approval, but we use three layers of closed-cell foam – the same material that is used in personal floatation devices for humans.

Can the Fido Float be washed?

Yes. For best results, we recommend washing it in warm water and line-drying.

What is the MannersMinder™ system?

It’s a remote-controlled reward system that uses positive reinforcement for training dogs to behave at home and perform better in competition. By rewarding desired behaviors, the system can be an invaluable tool in helping redirect a dog’s focus away from barking at the door, jumping on guests, and begging at the table. The system can also be used to train behaviors ranging from down/stay to coming when called and agility skills such as contacts, place and go-outs.

What’s included in a MannersMinder kit?

Each kit contains a battery-operated food dispenser with two (2) interchangeable kibble disks, hand-held remote control with battery, extendable target wand with removable base, detailed instruction guide, and comprehensive training DVD. The 4 “D” batteries required for the base unit are NOT included.

How can the system be used to train a dog?

By rewarding your dog for behaviors you desire. Dogs repeat behaviors that are rewarded or reinforced. To change or eliminate unwanted behavior, first determine what is reinforcing it, and change your behavior to stop unintentionally rewarding your dog for things you don’t like. The system can then be used to reward the good manners and behavior you prefer.

How soon can I start training a puppy with the MannersMinder?

Since this program relies on positive reinforcement, you can start puppies as soon as they can eat dry kibble and are weaned from their mothers. 

My dog might paw the machine. Will that be a problem?

In this program you will specifically reward your dog when he is standing with all four feet on the floor and avoid rewarding him for pawing the machine. As a result, all dogs being formally trained with the MannersMinder, learn to get treats without pawing the machine. Dogs that are not trained to the MannersMinder, however, may try to paw the machine. Since doing so never earns rewards, this behavior extinguishes or disappears. The MannersMinder is fairly rugged and can withstand moderate amounts of pawing and nudging.

Do you always have to use the machine

Chapter 14 of the training manual "Fading Out the MannersMinder" covers how to train dogs to "place" and stay without a MannersMinder present in front of the rug or mat.

Can more than one system be used in the same home?

Yes. Each system will operate on any one (1) of four (4) channels. That means as many as four (4) separate systems can be used in close proximity to one another.

How far can I expect the remote signal to travel?

Up to 100 feet…and through walls if necessary.

How large is the base unit?

The food-dispensing base unit weighs just over 3.3 lbs. and is approximately 13.6”(L) x 8.8”(W) x 7.5”(H).

Can additional parts be purchased separately?

Yes. Remotes, kibble disks and target wand sets can be purchased from Premier Pet Products for $25 USD/remote, $5 USD/disk set, and $15 USD/target wand set. Shipping will be added based on location.

My system doesn’t seem to be working properly. What can I do before calling customer service?

• Check the batteries. See that the four (4) D and one (1) 23A-12V batteries are charged. (A red ‘power’ light will activate indicating batteries in the base unit need to be replaced.)

• See that the channel settings on the base unit and remote are synchronized.

• Test your kibble/treats to see they pass freely through the disk opening. (Avoid semi-moist treats if possible.) 

Can the system interfere with radio and/or tv reception?

Yes. In the event you experience any form of signal interference, you’re encouraged to…

• Change the channel setting.

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Consult the user guide or an experienced radio/TV technician for assistance.

Does the system come with a warranty?

Yes. The system is guaranteed for one (1) year against manufacturer defects.

Is any other information available?

Yes. Check out Yahoo Group http://treatntrain@yahoogroups.com. The site was created so that users could share/discuss their experiences with Dr. Sophia Yin's remote treat dispenser. The list allows members to exchange training challenges, ideas for solutions, and questions about how to use the device.

In addition, Dr. Yin’s website www.nerdbook.com offers valuable tips and training advice on using the MannersMinder.

 

How does it work?

This system has two (2) components…a hand held remote controlled transmitter and a spray receiver collar. Batteries operate both [two (2) 6-volt batteries are included in the kit].

The #1 button triggers a tone which can be used to encourage a dog to repeat the desired behavior. This function will allow for training using ‘reward’ versus punishment. Initially, the tone will have no meaning to the dog. Only after repeatedly pairing the tone with a treat, praise, etc. will the dog become conditioned to find the tone ‘rewarding’. The tone can then be used to mark desired behaviors at a distance while the dog is engaged in the behavior. The concept is similar to that for clicker training.

To disrupt an unwanted behavior, press either the #2 button (which releases a short spray… approximately .5 seconds) or the #3 button (for a longer spray…nearly 1.5 seconds). It’s strongly recommended that the keypad not be pointed directly at the dog (it can be kept in a pocket or behind one’s back) so that the animal does not associate the spray with the operator.

How will this train a dog?
The spray should be triggered while a dog is engaged in an unwanted behavior. Through redirection to an acceptable behavior, followed immediately by a reward, the dog will learn to repeat the desired behavior. Timing of the stimulus…response…reward is the key to successful training. Seek the assistance of a professional in the event the dog does not respond as desired.

Why is timing the spray correction to the unwanted behavior so important?

A dog will not understand that it is being sprayed for something it has stopped doing. It will associate the spray with whatever behavior it is engaged in at the time.

What's included in a Spray Commander® kit?

Each kit contains…a remote controlled transmitter (operates on a 900 MHz frequency); spray receiver (with ON/OFF switch); 24” adjustable nylon collar strap; 3 oz. (85g) can of stain-free, hypoallergenic scentless spray; two (2) 6-volt alkaline batteries; detailed Instruction Guide; training CD-ROM.

Can Spray Commander be used to train more than one dog?

Yes. However, in order to train more than one dog in the same location it may be necessary to employ multiple frequencies. Each kit contains a remote controlled transmitter and spray receiver set to the same frequency. Remote and receiver are a matched pair with identical ID signatures. Located in the battery compartment, the ID begins with a single letter…‘T’ in the remote and ’R’ in the receiver. The ‘T’ or ‘R’ will be followed by three numbers…either 912 or 828…and the letters ‘ID’. The signature is completed by two characters, i.e., 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 0A, 0B, 0C, 0D, and 0E, designating the frequency. There are up 14 frequency matches. A matched ID signature will appear as T 912 ID 01 (remote) or R 912 ID 01 (receiver).

 

The use of multiple frequencies would require separate matched remote/receiver sets each with a different ID signature. If a customer has purchased more than one matched set and needs the flexibility provided by multiple frequencies Premier can swap out the unwanted set(s) at no charge.

Is the spray receiver waterproof?

No, the spray receiver is not waterproof. The device cannot be submerged, however it is water-resistant and can be used by outdoor dogs.

How many sprays are there in the reservoir?

A full reservoir will deliver between 15 and 25 sprays.

Can the spray receiver be used with other training systems?

No. The Spray Commander is unique and operates on a different radio signal.

How many sprays are there in a refill can?

Well over 200 sprays in each 3 oz. (85g) refill can. The actual number will vary depending on how often the longer spray (button #3) is used during training.

Can all dogs be trained using spray?

Not necessarily. If an owner finds that their dog is not responding to the spray, they should seek the help of a trainer or behaviorist.

Is the spray harmful to my dog or family?

The scentless solution has been found to be extremely safe. Its ozone-friendly propellant is the same inert product used in asthma pumps for humans.

Can the spray harm my dog’s eyes?

It should be noted that the scentless solution is buffered to minimize any discomfort should it get into the eyes. However, as with any aerosol product, the spray should not be aimed directly into the eyes. The collar, being worn on the neck, should be directed at the snout. This puts it a safe distance from the dog’s eyes.

Can my pet become accustomed to the spray?

It is possible for dogs to become accustomed to the spray. When this occurs it is often the result of poor training techniques, i.e., the spray is either triggered too late or delivered inconsistently.

How large is the spray device?

The device weighs just over 3 ozs. and is approximately 2.25” (h) x 1.5” (d) x 1.9” (w).

Is this collar appropriate for all dogs?

In most cases it is. It is recommended that before using the device on dogs under six (6) months and less than six (6) lbs. you first consult a veterinarian. In all cases the device should be removed immediately after the training session has ended.

Does this product come with a warranty?

This unit comes with a limited lifetime warranty on parts and labor for any defect, provided the warranty card is completed and returned at the time of purchase.