Listen, dog training is tough. It’s blinkin’ hard work so you need to make sure you’re setting yourself up for success. One of the best ways to do this is by making sure you’ve got all your must-have essentials to hand.
Embarking (pun totally intended) on puppy or dog training without the key tools is like trying to bake a cake with no utensils - pretty messy and virtually impossible.
Keep reading for our ultimate guide to dog training accessories and essentials so that you’ve got all the gear even if you’ve (currently) got no idea.
Top dog training essentials
Before you even think about recall, positive reinforcement and all that jazz, you need to make sure you’ve got all the right tools for your dog training kit:
- Training lead
- Training harness
- Training collar
- Dog training accessories
Now you know what you need to add to your shopping list, let’s explore each of them in more detail. We’ll also share some great products that you can grab on the BullyBillow’s site while you’re here.
Double-ended dog training lead
A double-ended dog training lead is a must for any pups, mutts and humans in training. As it has two clasps, you can swap and change the length whenever you need to.
Take advantage of the short length for walking and switch to medium-long length for obedience training. Use the maximum length for recall and distance training to give your pooch the taste of freedom while still keeping them secure and within reach.
Below are some other kinds of dog training leads that you might find useful. You don’t need to buy every single type of training lead out there but it may help you to have options.
Multi-handle lead
A multi-handle lead has a number of grabbing points along the length of the lead. This means you can give your dog as much or as little slack as you like during a walk or training session.
Plus, keeping your dog close feels secure for you. However, in the case of reactive dogs, a longer lead will help reduce their stress and anxiety, so it’s good to have a choice.
It’s also a great option if you’ve just got a puppy and you’re looking for a lead that’s going to last a while and still work while your fur baby is growing.
Traffic handle lead
With dogs and puppies that are going through training and not necessarily the most obedient yet, a traffic handle lead is always a good thing to have in your kit. This will keep your pooch close to you at the side of the road so they don’t end up getting dangerously close to moving traffic.
It can be clipped to your dog’s collar so you’ve got maximum control in risky situations. You can also double-up lots of traffic handle leads as a doggy seatbelt.
The design of this traffic lead has recently been updated to offer an even longer lead. However, it’s important to note that it shouldn’t be used for super small dogs, only M-XL breeds.
Slip training lead
A slip lead is one that is basically like one big loop that goes over your dog’s head and can then be secured to fit with a stopper.
They’re handy walk-training tools because when the dog is walking at the right pace, by your side, the lead will be loose. However, when they start to pull, they will pull against the lead and it will get tighter around their neck, prompting them to correct their behaviour.
Our anti-choke slip lead comes with our secure and bespoke rubber stopper, as well as our bespoke anti-swivel, anti-tangle mechanism. This will keep both you and your pooch happy and comfortable on your walks together.
Dog training harness
There are different types of training and different schools of thought when it comes to whether or not your dog should wear a harness. If a training harness is something you’re keen to try, we’d recommend something like the TRI-Harness®, designed to stand strong against pulling.
This harness has three points of contact (all of which avoid sensitive areas) so it offers more support, gives you more control and reduces the risk of your pooch being injured when they pull or misbehave on their lead.
The benefits of using a harness for dog training include:
- Less chance of them performing a great escape and running free.
- Encouraging your pooch to walk forward, which makes it a whole lot easier to teach them to walk well on a loose lead.
- It's a safe, comfortable way to guide your dog in the right direction with less pressure on the neck.
- They're better for puppies and small breeds that have more delicate necks.
If you have a smaller pup (like a Frenchie, Pug or similar-sized breeds) we have the TRI-Harness Mini option.
Dog training collar
Where dog collars are concerned, you’re spoilt for choice. There’s a whole plethora of materials, fastenings, embellishments, colours, styles, etc. to choose from. When your dog is fully trained, you can start to prioritise aesthetics and the cute factor more but while they’re learning the ropes, go for function over fashion.
To keep your dog’s comfort, safety and happiness in check, we’d recommend something like the Combat® Collar. Not only is this collar great for all breeds and suitable for puppies, but it also features a grab handle for added security, control and peace of mind.
The Combat® Collar is a popular choice for professional dog handlers, police dogs and military and security dogs. It comes in 2.5cm, 4cm & 5cm lengths, along with our Lighter versions.
Don’t forget your dog training accessories
Coco Chanel famously said about fashion accessories, “before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off”. The same doesn’t apply when it comes to dog training bits and bobs. The more accessories you’ve got up your sleeve, the better equipped and safer you’re going to feel.
Below are some other must-haves to consider before heading out on your first training session.
Safety muzzle
In December 2023, it made the news headlines that all XL Bully dogs must now wear a muzzle and be kept on a lead in public. To save getting yourself or your pet in trouble, it’s important to abide by the law and keep any required breeds muzzled.
If your dog is a breed that can be prone to aggression or if they display any aggressive tendencies towards people or other dogs, we’d also recommend using a muzzle for training. You should only take your dog out in public unmuzzled once you’re 100% sure they aren’t going to cause any harm.
Make sure you’re choosing a good-quality, comfortable safety muzzle like this flexible cage muzzle so it doesn’t irritate your dog or restrict their movement or breathing.
Engraved ID tag
It’s now a legal requirement for any dog to have an ID tag attached to their collar whenever they’re in public. The Control of Dogs Order 1992 now states that dogs must wear a collar that displays the owner's name and address.
Attaching an engraved ID tag to your dog’s collar will make sure that if they do run off or slip their lead, anybody who finds them can return them safely to you.
This is particularly important during training when your pet’s recall and obedience on walks probably won’t be up to scratch.
The all-important treat pouch
Positive reinforcement is all about rewarding good behaviour and it’s no secret that treats are the way to any pup’s heart. And yes, there is a difference between positive reinforcement and bribery but hey, whatever works for you.
Having a dedicated dog treat pouch will help make sure you’re never caught short when you need it most. Keeping multiple treat bags in different places (your bag, your coat pocket, your car boot) helps a lot too. We should know.
Shop all your dog training essentials at BullyBillows
Ready and raring to start training your four-legged friend? Now all that’s left to do is make sure you’re stocked up on all of your dog training must-haves.
Here at BullyBillows, we’ve got everything you’re going to need, from dog training leads and harnesses to cosy coats and fleeces to keep them warm and dry when they’re out and about.
For more news, advice and product buying guides check out the rest of our blog…
How to Crate Train a Dog | Tips For Stress-Free Dog Walks | How To Train Your Dog With Positive Reinforcement
