Top 12 Dog Training Tools Every Owner Should Have

Tools for dog training can get complicated fast. But you only really need some reliable essentials to get the job done.

The other day, I was in the backyard with Pixie, my energetic terrier, trying to work on her recall skills. You know, the age-old challenge of getting your dog to come back to you when there’s something far more exciting—like a squirrel—distracting them.

As I called her name and "come" for the third time, holding out a treat and using my most upbeat voice, I thought to myself: “The best dog training tools really do make all the difference.”

From finding the best dog treats for training dogs to choosing a leash, here are some essential dog training tools I wouldn't want to be without.

Best Dog Training Tools

1. High-Value Treats: The Ultimate Training Currency

If you take nothing else from this list, I'll say it now: high-value dog treats are everything. There are just some treats that dogs will do backflips for. They do almost anything to get their jaws on them because these dog treats have an irresistible taste and smell—to dogs. I can't smell them.

Think single-ingredient, organ meat goodness that you can feel good about because they're also super nutritious. Treats work because they create a positive association with the behavior you’re trying to teach. When Pixie nails her recall or sits on command, she gets a reward. This reinforces the idea that listening to me is not only a good thing—it’s a tasty thing.

For longer training sessions, I make sure to break the treats into small pieces to keep her engaged without overloading her on calories.

For Pixie's productive training sessions, we use beef lung bites. I can buy them in bulk, so a bag lasts a long time.

2. Clicker: Precision Training Made Simple

When I first got my clicker on Amazon, I was skeptical. What could a dog possibly get out of being clicked at? But it works. Through "Pavlov's Dog phenomenon", they associate the click with getting a treat as you click and treat during training.

A clicker allows me to mark the exact moment your dog does something right, making it easier for them to understand what I'm rewarding. Pixie has picked up commands so much faster than my lab mix Bruno because she's the first dog in the family who learned with the click, then treat method.

I love this 2 pack on Amazon. I keep one in my car and one in my treat pouch.

3. A Durable Leash and Collar

Leash training is one of the first things I work on with any dog—because, well, we can't go for a walk without it.

A sturdy leash and well-fitted collar (or harness) are essential for walks, basic obedience training, and safety. The leash gives me control while allowing my dog the freedom to explore within limits.

When I was teaching Bruno, my lab mix, to heel, the leash was my lifeline with such a big dog. I'm not a large lady.

It helped guide him into position and keep him focused. So, even when the neighbor’s cat sauntered by like it owned the sidewalk, he stayed with me.

Here's a harness I like. It's durable and prioritizes dog comfort. It also allows for both front clip and top clip training to adapt to your training style. See it here.

Next up, this leash has two handles, so I can give my dogs more or less leeway while training. Definitely a helpful feature! Find it here.

4. Training Mat or Crate

Teaching a dog to "go to 'place'" is vital for breaking up tense situations and sparing visitors when your pup is overexcited to see them. A training mat or crate serves as a visual cue for your dog and gives them a designated spot to relax.

You might think of it as a time-out corner. I know my kids would when they were small. But dogs seem to see it more as "their spot." They will start going there to rest or feel safe with no prompting from me.

If you're looking for options, here's a fine choice that my Pixie would love. It has multiple entrances, making it a versatile little dog den.

5. Long Line for Recall Training

A long leash allows you to train dogs at greater distances for recall while also keeping them safe. You can find long leashes up to 50 ft long. But I like this 30 foot nylon long leash I found on Amazon.

6. Training Treat Pouch

A training treat pouch is a smart investment. Keep your dog treats, some smaller dog bones, natural dog toothbrushes, clickers, baggies, etc., in one place, so you're ready to go on an adventure anytime.

I use this one from Mighty Paws. It has a no-spill magnetic clasp. And I can even keep my phone and keys in the extra pouches.

7. Training Treats for Mental Stimulation

Sometimes, training isn’t about teaching a new command—it’s about keeping your dog engaged and happy. Chews, like marrow bones or beef trachea, provide mental stimulation and satisfy my dogs' natural chewing instinct.

I use these training treats a couple of times a week to promote mental health and channel their chewing into something other than my walnut dinner table leg.

I feel my pups are more engaged during training sessions when I attend to these needs to chew on something substantial and nutritious.

You can find single-ingredient meat marrow-filled bones here. They come from grass-fed cattle born and raised in the USA.

8. A Ramp

Ramp training is a useful skill that many dog parents don't think about until their pup is already losing mobility and in need of natural joint supplements Starting early in mid-life will help your dog learn what a ramp is and how to balance on it to get into a car or onto the bed—if that's your thing.

This is especially important for large dogs that are difficult to pick up. They will be much more comfortable walking the ramp than having me trying to pick them up.

You can find some pretty cool dog ramps at different price points. Here's a basic foldable ramp.

9. A Ball or Flying Disc

Most dogs love to play. "Fetch" or "ball" are important commands to keep them active and engaged. You'll need some good fetchable items to teach them these skills. Of course, a tennis ball or flying disc are classics. And you can probably just get these at your local store.

10. Free 7-Day Dog Training Challenge

Tools for dog training are fantastic! And you know I wouldn't be without the best dog bone and treats for training dogs.

But knowing how to use them is just as important. That’s where the Free 7-Day Dog Training Challenge comes in.

This program covers essential commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it” and then shows you how to add more advanced skills to their bag of tricks. Taking this course is like having a personal trainer for your dog minus the gym membership. I recommend all dog parents take this challenge.

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