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Dog training is essential to caring for a dog, but having the right tools can make training even more efficient. However, with a plethora of products on the market, it can be challenging to decide which ones your dog truly needs. This article will explore the top dog training products, their uses, and why they’re considered the best options.
Buyer’s Guide: Dog Training Tools
Dog training equipment can vary greatly depending on what you’re looking for, so consider the following factors while shopping.
Type of Tool
First, you’ll need to decide what type of tool you’re looking for. Training treats, clickers, treat pouches, and agility equipment are just a few types of training products that dog parents use. Think about what you want to train your dog to do, and then select items based on those goals.
Safety
Safety is crucial for any pet products, but it’s even more so for tools to train dogs. Some training tools, such as shock collars, can harm dogs, which can stress them out and make it harder for them to learn. So, look for tools that use reward-based training methods instead of ones focusing on punishments. It’ll keep your dog happier and safer while also helping them form a closer bond with you.
Professional Recommendations
The best way to decide if a dog training tool will be effective is to talk to a professional trainer. They can give you suggestions based on what they’ve used in their training courses.
Best Dog Training Tools
- Small, chewy training treats
- Only two calories per treat
- Avoids fillers like corn, wheat, and soy
- Real chicken is the first ingredient
Training treats are an essential part of dog training. Zuke’s is a favorite option for pet parents and dog trainers because the treats are small and chewable. Plus, they’re only two calories per treat, so you won’t have to worry about your dog gaining weight during training sessions. These treats are made with nutritious ingredients and they avoid fillers like corn, wheat, and soy. They’re chicken-flavored with real chicken as the first ingredient. However, if your dog is allergic to chicken or prefers a different flavor, you may want to consider different treats. Choose treats that your dog finds irresistible to make training as effective as possible.
- Clicker allows you to praise dog without treats
- Includes comfortable finger strap
- Can attach to keys or a lanyard
- Comes in two colors
Clickers are a great training tool because they help you praise your dog without needing a treat. You’ll start by pressing the clicker every time to reward your dog with a treat so they can associate the clicker with something good. Eventually, you’ll be able to wean your dog off the treats so you don’t always need to use them. This small, affordable clicker has a strap that slides over your finger, making it easy to hold and reach the button. It also has a loop that you can attach to keys or a lanyard. This clicker comes in either purple or blue.
- Large bag holds all training supplies, including treats and toys
- Has a variety of pockets with either drawstrings, zippers, or mesh
- Comes with a collar and compact clicker
- Has spots to dispense poop bags
- Made of a waterproof material
- Comes in five colors
Carrying dog treats in your pocket can be messy, so many dog trainers recommend a treat pouch. The LANNEY Pet Training Bag is more than your average treat pouch though. It’s large enough to carry as many dog training supplies as needed, including treats, toys, leashes, clickers, travel bowls, and poop bags. It even has space for your phone and keys if needed. It has a large compartment that closes with a drawstring, two small compartments with zippers, and one mesh pocket. This bag comes with a collar and compact clicker, it has two spots to dispense poop bags, and it has a waterproof coating. So, it includes everything you need for an outdoor adventure with your furry friend.
- Reusable potty pad
- Made with four layers of absorbent, leak-resistant materials
- Machine-washable
- Big enough for all breeds to use
- Donates meals to shelter dogs
During the potty training process, it might be beneficial to have pee pads around. Sometimes, puppies cannot hold it long enough, so teaching them to go on a designated spot inside can reduce the mess involved. This reusable pee pad is machine-washable, so it’s easy to clean without being wasteful. It’s made with four layers of material to make it absorbent and leak-resistant. It’s 30″ x 36″ to make it big enough for all breeds to use. When paired with proper training, this potty pad can prevent pee from getting all over your floors. Plus, every potty pad purchased donates four meals to shelter dogs.
Related: Our Top 11 Picks For The Best Indoor Dog Potty
- Elevated bed works perfectly for "place" command
- Helps cool off your dog using breathable fabric
- Made of a sturdy metal frame
- Good for your dog's joints
- Comes in five sizes
- Comes in two colors
Teaching your dog “place” or a similar cue is a great way to get them to go to their bed or a certain spot in the house. It’s beneficial for keeping them out of trouble when someone rings the doorbell or enters the home. Elevated dog beds like the Amazon Basics Cooling Bed are great products to use as your dog’s place. Since the bed is raised off the ground, it’s easier for them to understand the boundaries of where they should be. Plus, the elevated design gives them better air circulation and is good for their joints. This product is made with a durable frame, and it comes in five sizes so you can choose one that’s appropriate for your dog’s breed. However, it does require some assembly before you can use it.
- Muzzle helps prevent biting and eating unwanted items
- Comes in six sizes
- Soft and lightweight design while still being durable
- Has several adjustable straps
- Allows dogs to eat and accept treats while wearing it
Muzzles often get a bad reputation, but they’re an excellent training tool for dogs. When paired with proper training, a muzzle can help deter dogs from snapping at other dogs or humans, and they can prevent them from eating things off the ground. Using a muzzle properly can help your dog and those around them feel safer. The Baskerville Ultra Dog Muzzle comes in six sizes to cater to a variety of breeds, but it might not work well for dogs with flat faces. It’s soft and lightweight to ensure it’s comfortable for your dog while still being durable. Your dog will still be able to drink and accept treats while wearing it, making it a great option for training.
- Steel braided cable holds up to strong chewers
- Aluminum carabiner holds over 850 pounds of force
- Handle is soft and padded
- Comes in two vibrant colors
- Works for dogs of all sizes
Whenever you train your dogs outdoors outside of a fenced-in yard, you’ll need a durable leash. The Mighty Paw Dog Leash is perfect for making sure your dog is secure because of its durable material and clip. It’s made with a steel braided cable to hold up against even the strongest chewers. The aluminum carabiner at the end is strong enough to hold 850 pounds of force. This leash works for dogs of all sizes, and it comes in two vibrant colors to improve visibility. Then, the handle is soft and padded to ensure a comfortable grip.
- Martingale collar helps with leash training
- Humane alternative to shock collars or prong collars
- Made with soft nylon webbing
- Slides over your dog's head instead of buckling
- Comes in seven sizes
- Comes in 22 colors
When paired with proper training, martingale dog collars are a beneficial tool. The collar tightens slightly when dogs pull on them, but not enough to choke them or harm them, making it a humane alternative to shock collars and prong collars. Thus, it can help teach your dog proper leash-walking skills. This particular collar is versatile with seven sizes and 22 colors. Each collar is made with soft nylon webbing to keep your dog comfortable. The collar slides over your dog’s head instead of buckling to keep it secure.
- Includes three fun obstacles
- Can be used indoors
- Easy to transport and set up
- Great for high-energy dogs
If your dog already has basic training skills down, they may benefit from agility training, especially if they have lots of energy. The Outward Hound agility kit includes several basic items, such as a tunnel, posts to weave through, and a bar to jump over. All these pieces can safely be used inside, so there will be fewer distractions for your furry friend. Each item is lightweight and portable, so you can easily work on training in various spaces to improve your dog’s skills.
- Keeps dogs entertained to reduce destructive chewing
- Hide treats or kibble in the fabric pieces for you dog to sniff out
- Also works as a slow feeding mat
- Donates a toy to a shelter dog
Snuffle mats can help with training because they’re a great source of mental stimulation. They can be used to keep your dog’s mind busy and distract them from barking. They can also help improve your dog’s nose work. This snuffle mat is made with lots of colorful fabric pieces, so you can hide treats in it and have your dog sniff out those treats. It’s a beneficial activity for dogs of all ages, and it can be machine-washed with cold water if needed. Every iHeartDogs snuffle mat purchased donates a toy to a shelter dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Clickers for Dogs?
A clicker is a small handheld device that emits a sharp and consistent clicking sound. It’s used in positive reinforcement training to mark the exact moment a desired behavior occurs. When followed consistently by a reward, like a treat, the dog learns to associate the sound with positive feedback.
Related: Best Online Dog Training Classes by Dog’s University
Are Choke Chains and Prong Collars Safe for Dogs?
Choke chains and prong collars aren’t recommended for dog training. They can cause harm or injury, so it’s best to use humane alternatives. Many trainers nowadays prefer positive reinforcement methods and tools that don’t rely on aversive techniques.
Are Electronic Collars (E-Collars) Safe for Dogs?
E-collars, also known as shock collars, are considered inhumane by most dog trainers. For best training results, look for humane options that don’t cause harm to your dog. Most trainers recommend reward-based training instead of punishment-based training.
Do I Always Need to Use Treats During Dog Training?
Treats are an excellent tool for training, but if you’re worried about overfeeding your dog, you can transition them to treat-less training. Teach your dog to associate a clicker sound or a cue like “yes” with treats so they will eventually understand those sounds without being fed.
How Long Should Dog Training Sessions Be?
Short, frequent sessions are often more effective than longer ones. For most dogs, sessions lasting 5-15 minutes a few times a day can be ideal, especially when introducing new concepts.
Why is My Dog Not Listening to Me During Training?
Several factors could cause a dog not to listen, including distractions in the environment, insufficient training, unclear cues, or health issues. Many dogs won’t listen if they don’t understand what’s expected of them. If that’s the case, you may need to take it slower or break it up into small steps.
How Early Should I Start Training My Puppy?
You can start basic training as soon as you bring your puppy home, which should be no sooner than 8 weeks old. Starting early sets your puppy up for success. You can first try simple commands like “sit,” “stay,” and housebreaking.
Is it Ever Too Late to Train a Dog?
No, it’s never too late to train a dog. While certain behaviors may take longer to address in older dogs, they can still learn new commands and behaviors with patience and consistency.
Final Thoughts: Best Training Tools for Dogs
The world of dog training products is vast, but the tools mentioned above have proven their worth again and again. Your dog’s personality and needs can help you decide which products will be the most valuable.
No matter how well-behaved your dog is, they can always benefit from training, especially since it can help them bond with you and stay entertained. If you’re ever struggling with certain aspects of training, consider reaching out to a professional for the best results.
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