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Gear for reward-based training
You don't need much to train a dog well. Treats, a leash and five minutes a day do most of the work. These are the few things that make our 7-day plans and brain games easier, picked from items dog owners buy and rate highly.
What we leave out on purpose: shock, prong, choke and spray collars, bark deterrents and retractable leashes. They work against the calm, reward-based training on this site.
Training basics
- Treat pouch
Rewards land within a second, which is what makes training click.
Check price on Amazon - Pupford Freeze-Dried Training Treats
Tiny, single-ingredient bites dogs work hard for, so you can reward often.
Check price on Amazon - Training clicker
Marks the exact moment your dog gets it right (optional; a word works too).
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Walking and recall
- rabbitgoo No-Pull Harness (front + back clip)
Clip the leash to the chest ring and pulling turns your dog gently toward you, with no pressure on the neck.
Check price on Amazon - Long line, 30 ft
Lets your dog practise recall outdoors while you stay in control.
Check price on Amazon - Taglory 6 ft Rope Leash
The everyday training leash: enough slack to stay loose, short enough to stay safe.
Check price on Amazon - Dog whistle
A recall cue that sounds the same from anyone in the family.
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Potty training and home setup
- BLUETREE Potty Training Doorbells
Gives your puppy a clear way to tell you they need to go out.
Check price on Amazon - MidWest iCrate with divider (30 in)
The divider lets the crate grow with your puppy. Pick the size for your dog's adult weight.
Check price on Amazon - Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator
An enzyme cleaner removes the smell that draws puppies back to the same spot.
Check price on Amazon - FXW Rollick Dog Playpen (24 in)
A safe nap and play zone that prevents accidents and over-tired nipping.
Check price on Amazon - Regalo Easy Step Walk-Through Gate
Keeps greetings calm and a chewer out of trouble while you train.
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Chewing and settling
- KSIIA Washable Crate Pad / Mat
A movable 'settle' spot for the door, the cafe or a friend's house.
Check price on Amazon - KONG Classic (stuffable)
Stuff it, freeze it, and your dog chews the right thing while you're busy.
Check price on Amazon - KONG Puppy
Softer rubber for puppy teeth; a legal target for nipping and chewing.
Check price on Amazon - Benebone Wishbone
A durable chew most dogs love. Pick the right size, supervise, and retire it when worn.
Check price on Amazon - Tug toy
Gives puppy teeth a legal target and makes a great reward. Supervise rope toys and bin frayed ones.
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Brain games and enrichment
- DR CATCH Dog Puzzle (level 1)
A ready-made brain game once your dog has mastered the DIY ones.
Check price on Amazon - Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Tornado (level 2)
Spinning layers make your dog think harder; the next step up.
Check price on Amazon - AWOOF Snuffle Mat
Ten minutes of sniffing tires a dog out like a walk.
Check price on Amazon - LUKITO Lick Mat (2-pack)
Licking helps many dogs relax: great while guests arrive or the doorbell rings.
Check price on Amazon - Chuckit! Ultra Ball (2-pack)
Bouncy, floats, easy to see: a classic reward and muffin-tin cover.
Check price on Amazon - 12-cup muffin pan
The base of the muffin tin game; any old tin works too.
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Prices and availability change on Amazon, so we don't list prices here. Choose sizes by your dog's weight, supervise chews and toys, and ask your vet if you're unsure what suits your dog.