Think about a personal goal you’ve set for yourself. It could be anything! Whether you’re hoping to workout more or eat healthier or learn a new hobby, your goal likely requires a variety of tools to support you.
The same goes for dog training. You and your dog will achieve your training goals much faster with the right equipment. The good news is that you can find some of these tools around your house or in your fridge! You can save a lot of money by getting a little creative.
I will tell you all about the equipment I use with my own dog. For those looking to save some cash, I will also suggest ways to scrounge together what you may already own.
Below is a quick shopping list of everything I recommend. If you’d like to read on for more in-depth information, keep scrolling!
There is an overwhelming amount of dog training equipment to choose from. And the tools you use to train your dog will influence the approach you take to your pup’s education. A shock or pinch collar, for example, will make training very scary and painful for your dog.
That’s why it is important to choose the right equipment. Gentle training tools support a gentle training approach–which is what we strive for with 1 Minute Dog Training! Instead of using a prong, shock, or choke collar, there are many safe and ethical alternatives I recommend.
Flat Collar
A flat collar is what likely comes to mind when you think of a dog collar. With their basic design, these are a great place to display your pup’s ID. I use this collar, where I have our family name and my phone number embroidered on the collar.
I recommend this instead of a dog tag, because you know the ID tag cannot break off. In the event that you got separated from your dog, someone could easily contact you.
Many people keep their dog’s flat collar on at all times. You only want to attach a leash to your dog’s flat collar for short trips, such as a potty break in your yard. For lengthier leash outings, opt for a harness instead.
Harness
Does your dog pull on the leash? Many dogs do, especially in the early stages of leash training. The strain this causes on a dog’s neck can cause serious injuries. For walking your dog, a harness is better than a traditional flat collar.
A harness has a lot more material than a flat collar, fitting your dog more like a shirt than a necklace. They are designed to relieve tension from your dog’s neck when walking on a leash. I recommend this harness.
Head Collar
A head collar is a very humane type of training collar. They are like a halter for a horse. This tool allows you to easily communicate with your dog without choking her.
Head collars keep your dog focused, and they are an important tool for leash training. Dogs are much less likely to pull on their leash when wearing a head collar, as they will quickly learn that a taut leash means to stop.
Head collars are fitted around your dog’s snout, so they might take some getting used to. Many dogs are very sensitive to being touched on their face. Introduce your dog to her head collar slowly.
I recommend introducing the head collar before you take it for a test run around the block. Start by making this tool your dog’s best friend. If she sniffs or even looks at it, give her heaps of praise and a treat. She will quickly learn that the head collar is good news.
Put it on her face gradually, and take it off when she resists. Reward her frequently as she adjusts to the sensation. She will soon associate the head collar with walks and treats and praise, which is exactly what you want. Your dog will also adapt to wearing it, and should only resist it in the very early stages.
There are many different types of head collars on the market. I tend to use a Gentle Leader.
Leash
You will also need a leash to attach to your dog’s collar, harness, or head halter. I recommend a long leash like this one. I also like this one. For the DIY readers, you could easily use a piece of rope that is at least 10 feet long.
Please do not use retractable leashes when training your dog. These convenient leashes are very easy to misuse. Retractable leashes can harm both you and your dog.1
Treats
Remember that goal you thought about earlier? Now, think about how you reward yourself for working towards it. Maybe you treat yourself to a meal at your favorite restaurant once a week. Or you savor that cookie that tastes so much better after you’ve completed a challenging workout.
Well, once again, dogs are like this too. Most dogs are very motivated by food. Leverage your dog’s training sessions with his love for snacking. Once he gets the hang of things, replace treats with free (and less fattening) rewards like love and affection.
In the early stages of training, I use small, single ingredient treats made from wholesome nutrients. I prefer to use these treats. My dog absolutely loves these treats as well. I usually break them into small pieces.
It can be difficult to find high quality and affordable dog treats. You might be surprised to find a handful of dog-friendly treats inside your own fridge. Blueberries, carrots, and frozen peas make excellent training treats, just to name a few.
Feed your dog human food with caution though, because many things you eat can poison your pup. Here is a list of foods you should never give your dog.
One of my favorite ways to reward dogs with food is by rationing their dinner. If you feed your pup commercial dog food, individual pieces of kibble are great treat alternatives. You won’t pay a penny more than what you’re already spending. Better yet, this encourages your dog to work for her meals, which is intellectually stimulating and great for her mental health.
I think it’s important to slowly wean off the treats when training and replace them with greater rewards: Touch, affection and love. You want your dog to listen because he wants to. Many dogs will only listen for treats. You can shape this behavior by switching up which rewards you use. Your dog will prefer touch over treats before you know it!
