Dog Training Toolkit: 18 Essentials

Our furry bundles of joy come into our lives, bringing along unconditional love, hilarious antics, a lot of responsibility, and checklists. As a pet parent, you will spend much of your time, especially the first few weeks, fussing over your four-legged baby and ensuring they have everything they need. While picking out bowls, beds, and endless toys and treats is fun, it’s equally important to stack up the right dog training tools.

After all, the right training is a big part of raising your dog to be an upright canine citizen. To do that effectively, you need the right supplies for your needs. I’m here to help you identify the best tools for dog training, whether you’re starting with the basics or venturing into advanced canine training.   

Basic Dog Training Tools

Well, the good news is, you don’t need a lot of tools in your kitty to get started with training your dog. However, it is important to choose the right ones to make the process that much easier. If it’s your first stint at training a dog, it can be hard to pick out the essential ones from a wide selection of dog training equipment. I feel your dilemma. So, allow me to ease you into the process. Let’s start with the basics, shall we? And look at some dog training essentials for puppies and dogs:   

1. A collar

A collar, preferably with an ID tag, tops the list of essential dog training supplies and you will need it to control your dog, teach them to walk on a lead and ward off the risk of them running away, making it the best dog training equipment for beginners. It’s important to choose one that’s the right fit for your dog—snug but comfortable. The size and strength of the collar depend on your pet’s age, size, and breed.

A small dog like Shih Tzu, for instance, can do with a thin strap around their neck. But a German Shepherd or a Rottweiler will need something sturdier. Then, there are different types of collars to choose from, leather, nylon, quick-release buckle, double buckle, and so on. Steer clear of choke, prong, or shock collars. Research shows that aversive training methods like these collars can do more harm than good, triggering behavioral issues such as aggression, anxiety, or learned helplessness.  

Suggested Reading: Dog Harness vs Collar: Which is Right for Your Pet?

2. Leash

Of course, you will need a leash to go with the collar. No dog training toolkit is complete with one—or several. Now, there is a lot of room to experiment here, you can choose from short, long lines, and retractable leashes, all of which serve a distinct purpose. A short leash, for instance, is great for teaching your dog to walk on a lead and staying in control while socializing your pet.

Long-line leashes, on the other hand, give your pet room to explore and navigate their surroundings as they learn new skills, and can be great for practicing recall without losing control. Retractable leashes offer the least amount of control and can snap suddenly, so they are best avoided for training. Likewise, you also have a wide range of materials and designs to choose from. While that choice depends on your environment and taste, if you’re looking for dog training essentials for puppies, it’s best to stick to something chew-resistant and durable.

3. Harness

There is also the dog harness vs collar debate to consider. While a collar has its own set of benefits, a lot of canine trainers prefer to work with a harness as it puts less strain on your dog’s neck. A harness can be one of the most necessary dog training tools when you’re working on rectifying issues like leash pulling.

4. Treats

Positive reinforcement has been established as the best approach to canine training, and that makes treats indispensable among essential dog training supplies. While dogs can be motivated by praise, affection, and playtime, a majority of them respond most favorably to food-based rewards.

So, you need to invest in some small, soft treats, and a treat pouch to store them in. When used at the right time to reinforce good behavior, treats can be an impeccable training tool. Besides, they’re great for getting your dog excited about the prospect of learning new things.

5. Clicker

Clicker training, where a small device is used to mark desired behaviors by making a distinct ‘click’ sound, is another time-tested and sound approach to canine training centered on positive reinforcement. Pretty soon, your dog will learn to associate desirable behaviors with the click sound and know what is expected of them.

The bonus, a clicker is one of the most affordable dog training supplies. Not to mention, extremely easy to use and carry. All of these factors combined rank the clicker among the best dog training equipment for beginners.

6. Toys

For dogs who don’t respond to food-based rewards, toys can be a great alternative. They’re also great for redirecting unwanted behaviors like biting. For example, if your teething puppy is biting your arms, you can use a tug-rope as a redirect. Eventually, your dog will learn that nibbling on their toy is okay but your arm is off-limits. Likewise, a ball is one of the best tools for dog training for cues like “drop it” or “leave it”.  

Advanced Training Tools

The must-have tools for dog training I’ve mentioned above are sufficient to tide you over basic commands and cues like sit, stay, come, drop it, leave it, and even teaching your dog to fetch. Once your dog has already mastered these and you want to crank things up a notch with more advanced training, you need to expand your dog training toolkit. Here are the essential dog training supplies you will need for advanced training:  

1. Scent kits

Scent training is a great way to use your dog’s natural foraging instincts for mental stimulation and to continually improve your bond with them. What’s more, you can take up this activity on a pro level and participate in competitions organized by associations like the AKC and the National Association of Canine Scent Work.

All in all, a great way to spend quality time with your canine companion and make it count. To get started, you will need a pre-assembled scent kit, which comprises items like cotton swabs, essential oils, and mini mason jars. This comprehensive dog training toolkit has all you need to foray into the world of scent training with your four-legged baby.

2. Agility courses

Agility training is a fun and challenging activity that helps dogs develop physical fitness, mental stimulation, and a strong bond with their owners. It involves guiding dogs through a series of obstacles, such as jumps, tunnels, and weaves, in a timed sequence. Agility training not only enhances a dog’s athletic abilities but also improves their focus, obedience, and problem-solving skills.

The dog training toolkit for this entails items like balance disks, balance pads, wedges, and so on. You also have the option to choose from indoor and outdoor kits. The compact indoor kits come in handy to familiarize your dog with the concept in a controlled environment. You can then graduate to a comprehensive dog training toolkit for outdoor training.

3. Backpacks for hiking and camping

If you enjoy being in nature, hikes can be another great activity you can bond with your dog over. After all, dogs love exploring the great outdoors, sniffing around, and running with abandon. Did you know you can train your dog to carry their own load on these excursions? For that, you need to invest in a dog backpack that your pooch can carry comfortably.

4. Talking buttons

Talking buttons for dogs are among the most unique and novel dog training tools, designed to help our canine companions communicate their needs or desires using pre-recorded sounds. These buttons are equipped with microphones that can detect and recognize specific sounds, such as “walk,” “eat,” or “play.”

When a dog presses the button associated with a particular word, the sound is played, and the owner can respond accordingly. This innovative training method helps dogs express themselves more effectively, strengthens the bond between owner and pet, and can be particularly beneficial for dogs with disabilities or communication challenges. As far as dog training equipment, this is as cutting-edge as it gets.

Interactive and Enrichment Tools

Dogs need a lot of mental stimulation to thrive. That’s why no comprehensive dog training toolkit is complete without a varied selection of toys and games that can keep your furry baby actively engaged and mentally stimulated. To that end, let’s take a look at some of the interactive and enrichment dog training tools that are worth investing in:

1. Puzzle toys and feeders

Puzzle feeders and toys challenge dogs mentally and physically by requiring them to use their problem-solving skills to access treats or toys hidden inside. These toys help keep dogs entertained, prevent boredom, and promote healthy chewing habits and are among the must-have tools for dog training if you’re addressing issues like destructive behavior or separation anxiety. They can also be helpful with crate training. These include,

• Kong toys
• Treat dispensers
• Puzzle mats
• Treat balls
• Slow feeders

2. Lick mats

Lick mats are among the essential dog training supplies for addressing issues of anxiety and stress in dogs as they’re designed to provide dogs with a mentally stimulating and satisfying experience. These mats have a textured surface with small pockets or indentations where treats or wet food can be smeared. As the dog licks the mat to retrieve the treats, the texture and sensation can help soothe anxiety, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.

Suggested Reading: 11 Eco-friendly Organic Dog Beds – Perfect ZZZs for Your Furry Baby

3. Snuffle mats

If you’re looking for affordable dog training supplies to introduce your pet to advanced skills like scent training, the snuffle mat is the one to look out for. Designed to mimic a dog’s natural foraging instincts, it is made with a dense fabric that has many hidden pockets where treats or toys can be buried. Dogs use their noses to search for and retrieve hidden items, stimulating their natural hunting and foraging behaviors.

4. Flirt poles

The flirt pole is one of the most interesting dog training tools out there, much like its name. consisting of a long pole with a lure attached to the end, it is designed to engage a dog’s natural hunting instincts. By moving the pole around, the owner can simulate prey movement, enticing the dog to chase, pounce, and play. Flirt poles are not only a great way to provide physical exercise and mental stimulation but can also be used for training commands like stay, come, and drop it.

Additional Supplies for Effective Training

When it comes to dog training essentials for puppies and dogs, there is just no dearth of options and choices. Once you’ve got your essential dog training supplies covered, you can explore optional gear as a way to augment the training process or as an alternative if the typical equipment and tools aren’t yielding the desired results. When putting together a comprehensive dog training toolkit, you may want to consider the following supplies:  

1. Headcollars

A headcollar is a dog training equipment that caters to a specific need — preventing leash pulling. Unlike traditional collars, these apply pressure to the dog’s muzzle and nose when they pull. This discomfort encourages the dog to stop pulling and walk calmly alongside their owner.

These are best used as a last resort if all your other efforts at stopping pulling on the leash have failed. It is also crucial to use them correctly and with positive reinforcement to avoid causing any stress to your dog. You must also weave this into the training routine gradually, allowing your pet time to get used to them.

2. Training mats

Given their versatility, training mats are easily one of the best tools for dog training and can be used to teach a wide range of commands in a controlled environment. These mats are typically made of a non-slip material and can be placed indoors or outdoors. By using the mat as a designated training area, you can create a consistent and focused learning environment for your dog. Training mats can be used for teaching commands like sit, stay, come, and down, as well as for practicing other behaviors such as crate training or leash training.

Suggested Reading: Can You Train a Dog at Any Age? The Answer May Surprise You

3. Gates and playpens

Gates and playpens are among the dog training essentials for puppies and new dogs, and go a long way in teaching them boundaries and keeping them out of trouble. For instance, if you don’t want your dog entering the kitchen, a gate can be a great way to set a boundary for them. Same for preventing them from taking a tumble down the stairs. Likewise, playpens can be effective in stopping undesired behaviors like chewing on furniture as well as potty training.  

4. Crates

Crate training may not work for all dogs, but canine training experts swear by its effectiveness in addressing certain issues. Crate training for separation anxiety, potty training, and correcting destructive behaviors is highly recommended. That makes a quality crate one of the must-have tools for dog training.  

When selecting a crate, prioritize size, material, style, portability, and additional features. The crate should be large enough for your dog to move freely, and the material should be durable. Consider your dog’s personality and lifestyle when choosing the style. If you travel, a portable crate is convenient. Additional features like dividers or trays can be helpful. By carefully considering these factors, you can find the perfect crate for your dog’s needs.

Suggested Reading: How to Crate Train an Older Dog: 7 Easy Steps

FAQs

1. Why is a clicker important in dog training?

A clicker is a powerful tool in dog training because it:

• Provides immediate positive reinforcement: The click sound is a clear signal to the dog that they’ve done something right
• Is consistent and reliable: The click sound is always the same, making it easy for the dog to understand
• Can be used in various training situations: Clickers can be used indoors, outdoors, and in different settings
• Helps build a positive association with training: The clicker can create a fun and rewarding experience for the dog

2. What types of treats are best for training?

High-value treats are best for training. These are treats that your dog finds particularly enticing, such as:

• Small pieces of cooked chicken or beef
• Cheese
• Liver
• Canned dog food
• Commercial training treats

 3. How do I choose the right leash and collar for training?

Choosing the right leash and collar for training depends on your dog’s size, temperament, and the type of training you’re doing.

• For most dogs, a flat collar is suitable
• For dogs prone to pulling, a harness might be better
• For puppies or small dogs, a gentle leader can help with leash pulling
• The leash should be strong but not too heavy. A retractable leash is generally not recommended for training

4. Are e-collars safe for dog training?

E-collars, or shock collars, are a controversial topic in dog training. While they can be used effectively to address certain behavioral issues, they also pose risks if not used responsibly. Improper use can lead to physical discomfort, psychological stress, and even aggression in dogs. It’s essential to consult with a qualified trainer who specializes in positive reinforcement methods before considering an e-collar. Positive reinforcement training, which focuses on rewarding desired behaviors, is generally considered safer and more humane for both dogs and their owners.

Takeaway

It can be easy to get lost in the sea of options for dog training tools available today. As fun and exciting as it is to shop for your pet, the costs can add up quickly if you’re not deliberate in your choices. The key is to not lose sight of your training goals, and rack up essential dog training supplies first. You can then add on additional ones, based on your changing needs or training levels.