ESSENTIAL TRAINING GEAR THAT EVERY DOG OWNER NEEDS
The pet item market is flooded with gear, toys, and nicknacks that are geared towards being colorful, fun, and generally easy to impulsively buy. It becomes very hard to know what you actually need for your beloved dog when there are so many options and many of them are so much more expensive than others. These can all be broken down into 2 main categories- gear your dog wears and gear you use for training. So, allow me to run through what I find to be the top essentials for training and working with your dog, as well as an example option for each that is budget friendly.
GEAR YOUR DOG WEARS
1. An H-style harness
Of all the items your dog can wear, the H-style harness is the well fitted denim jeans of the dog world. Classic, essential, and should be in everyone’s closet. A good H-style harness gives clearance to allow for complete and unhindered movement of the entire shoulder joint as well as takes pressure off the sensitive neck area. In addition, a lack of excessive chest padding prevents the harness from becoming a sled-pulling experience and can allow for a front leash attachment.
The Petsafe 3-in-1 is my top choice for this style of gear.
2. A flat leash of at least 6 feet, no more than 10 feet
A leash is a simple device that companies have made endlessly complex and charge upwards of $30 to $40 for. This is, in my opinion, a grand waste of money. The ideal leash for 90% of dogs should be flat, not made of rope, chain, or wire, and not have any heavy padding on the handle. This allows for the most steady grip, no bulky handle to make grabbing it with your palm more appealing than the superior method of slipping your wrist through the loop, and can be used to give the dog space to sniff or to hold the dog close. If you want to spring for an extra feature, a handle in the middle of the lead or the ability to clip the leash to a belt are the only features I entertain.
This brand has never been purchased or tested by me but shows how easy it can be to find an economical option with no bells or whistles. Plus their chew inclusive replacement policy is amazing!
GEAR USED FOR TRAINING
1. A clicker
The clicker is an essential for marker-based training, it also has unneeded upgrades and upselling in the market. If you spend more than 2$ per clicker, you are overthinking this purchase.
This 7 pack of simple clickers has been my go-to for nearly a decade.
2. A treat pouch
Of all the items here this is the one with the most room for personal preferences. Overall I recommend that your treat pouch be attached by a belt rather than a clip or shoulder sling, be washable or able to be used with a washable insert, and be able to hold at least two large handfuls of training treats. Extra pockets, waste bag holders, and varying closure styles are up to preference so start small and see what you want to add on.
This washable option is popular with a few of my colleagues! (And is cheaper than what I use)
This list is the bare bones minimum you need to start enjoying a lifetime of learning with your dog. Plus the savings you will enjoy by knowing where extra features are not required will allow you to invest in your dog’s education instead of a $70 harness or a $30 treat bag.
