Top 5 Essential Dog Training Tools
You’ve got your dog, their bed, their bowls and their toys. Now it’s time to get down to some training so what else do you need? To help you out, here's our essential training tools list.
Training Treats
Image courtesy of Ageless Paws
We recommend using bitesize, easy-to-chew treats. The aim is to reward positive behavior quickly, you don’t want your dog chewing a treat for too long as they might forget what they were rewarded for. We like these freeze dried chicken treats from Ageless Paws but the most important thing is that they are of value - you want your dog to want to earn them so if that’s carrots, carrots it is!
Treat Pouch
We always have our treat pouch when training and when we’re out and about with our dogs. Using a pouch gives you easy access to your treats to reward good behavior but more importantly quickly gets your dog conditioned to listen even if there aren’t treats in your hand.
Long Leash
Image courtesy of Mighty Paw
One of favorite tools to practice recall is a 20-30 foot long leash. Perfect for use in parks, beaches or open spaces, it allows your dog freedom to roam under your control. We like to allow our dogs to roam and then reward them for coming back. Only when they do this consistently and they have been well socialized do we go for the true off leash experience.
Two-Handle Leash
Image courtesy of Mighty Paw
These leashes are great for leash training. The two handles allow you to closely control your dog and teach them the close walking position as well as releasing for a more natural longer leash walk. The soft handles are easier on the hands when your dog is first learning not to pull.
Training Mat
Image courtesy of Amazon
We use ‘place’ mats to encourage calm behavior either at home or when you’re out and about. At home they are useful as a safe, calm place for dogs to prevent charging or barking at guests or while out in public at coffee shops, etc. You can use a small blanket, towel or cushion.