Snappy Trainer, Training Device

We used these handy little gizmos when our Golden decided he liked to steal food off the table or kitchen counter. It is basically a mouse trap with a big plastic flapper on it so when it closes it doesn't pinch but still jumps an makes the awful noise. The dog is so startled that he won't go near it. One problem though--if you stop using them because you think your dog is "cured"--he'll go back to his old ways (at least ours did). May need to bring them back out once in a while.

Pros: cheap; effective; harmless

Cons: can be hard to find

These may work for some dogs, but not all. If your dog does not become alarmed by environmental corrections or if his motivation is great to get at what he wants, this will not work. Also, I've heard a few Labs get what they want and they chew on the training device.

Pros: Can frighten some dogs if they startle easily

Cons: Dogs that do not startle will push it aside