Dog Training Tools

Dog training tools play a pivotal role in shaping well-behaved and happy canine companions. After years of dispensing suggestions for products as Dog trainers for our clients, we decided to collect our favorites in one place. This curated selection of tools is designed to enhance communication and reinforce positive behaviors. From E Collars and Prong Collars to interactive dog toys and dog crates, these tools facilitate effective training as well as safety. These expert-endorsed products are essential for pet parents embarking on a successful training journey with their furry friends.

E Collars for Dogs

E collars, or electronic collars, are among some of our favorite dog training tools. These devices, when used responsibly, offer instant communication, aiding in behavior modification and reinforcing obedience training. Modern e-collars come with various features, such as adjustable intensity levels and vibration modes, ensuring customized training sessions. With proper guidance, e collars provide subtle cues, promoting positive behaviors without causing harm. As trainers, we often endorse e-collars for their effectiveness in reinforcing commands like recall and heel, leading to a well-trained and confident canine companion. Check out our article here for tips on E collar training!

Dog Toys

Dog trainers consistently advocate for interactive and stimulating toys as essential tools for mental enrichment. Toys designed for treat dispensing encourage problem-solving skills, engaging dogs mentally while rewarding them for their efforts. Puzzle toys challenge their intellect, fostering cognitive development and preventing boredom-related behaviors. Durable chew toys not only satisfy natural chewing instincts but also promote dental health. Interactive balls and fetch toys enhance physical activity, keeping dogs active and maintaining their overall well-being. Dog trainers often recommend a variety of toys to cater to different play styles, ensuring that dogs stay mentally and physically stimulated, leading to happier, healthier pets.

Dog Puzzle Toys

Dog puzzle toys stand out as ingenious creations highly recommended by dog trainers. These toys are designed to challenge a dog's cognitive abilities and problem-solving skills. By concealing treats within intricate compartments, these toys engage dogs mentally, turning snack time into an exciting mental exercise. As dogs work to retrieve the hidden treats, they enhance their focus, patience, and intelligence. Dog trainers often endorse puzzle toys not just for entertainment but as effective tools to prevent boredom-related behaviors and provide mental enrichment. These toys are available in various difficulty levels, catering to both beginners and advanced puzzle-solvers, ensuring that every dog can enjoy a stimulating and rewarding playtime experience.

Kong

Kong toys have earned a prominent spot in the arsenal of tools recommended by dog trainers. These durable and versatile toys are designed to keep dogs mentally stimulated and physically engaged. Made from high-quality rubber, Kongs are perfect for interactive play and can be stuffed with treats, peanut butter, or kibble. Dog trainers often advocate for Kong toys as they provide mental enrichment, alleviate boredom, and encourage positive chewing behaviors. Whether used for fetch, solo play, or as a tool for crate training, Kong offers a stimulating experience, helping dogs channel their energy in a constructive way. Their durability ensures long-lasting enjoyment, making them a favorite among trainers and pet parents alike.

ChuckIt!

Among our top recommendations, Chuckit! dog toys stand as a testament to interactive and exhilarating playtime. These innovative toys are designed for fetching fun, combining durable materials with engaging designs. The Chuckit! launchers extend throwing distance, promoting healthy exercise and bonding between dogs and their owners. The bright colors and unique shapes capture a dog's attention, making fetch sessions not only enjoyable but also mentally stimulating. Dog trainers often endorse Chuckit! toys for their durability, encouraging active play, and enhancing a dog's physical and mental well-being. From balls to frisbees, Chuckit! toys provide endless entertainment, ensuring that every play session is an opportunity for dogs to indulge in their natural instincts while strengthening the human-canine bond.

WestPaw

We happily endorse WestPaw dog toys for their innovative design and exceptional durability. Crafted from eco-friendly and non-toxic materials, these toys are not only safe for dogs but also kind to the environment. WestPaw toys come in a variety of shapes and sizes, catering to different play styles and preferences. From chew toys that promote dental health to interactive puzzles that challenge a dog's intellect, WestPaw offers a diverse range of products. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their use of recycled materials and their recyclable packaging. Dog trainers often recommend WestPaw toys for their quality, engaging features, and the company's dedication to both canine happiness and environmental responsibility. Choosing WestPaw ensures hours of stimulating and safe play for dogs, making them a staple in the toolkit of every responsible dog trainer.

Dog Chew Toys

Dog trainers consistently emphasize the importance of chew toys for dogs of all ages and breeds. These toys serve multiple purposes in a dog's life, from easing teething discomfort in puppies to preventing boredom and destructive chewing behaviors in adult dogs. Trainers often recommend durable and non-toxic chew toys made from materials like rubber or nylon, ensuring they withstand vigorous chewing sessions. Some toys come with added features, such as dental ridges or compartments for treats, providing both mental stimulation and dental benefits. Introducing appropriate chew toys early in a dog's life teaches them what is acceptable to chew on, saving furniture and shoes from potential damage. By providing dogs with engaging and safe chew toys, trainers help fulfill their natural urge to chew while promoting dental health and mental well-being.

Dog Crates

At Suburban K9 we highly recommend the use of dog crates as an essential tool for effective training and creating a safe haven for dogs. A properly sized and comfortable crate serves as a secure space where dogs can relax, sleep, and feel secure. Our trainers often advise using crates for house training, as dogs instinctively avoid soiling their den-like space. When introduced correctly, crates become a positive environment, reducing anxiety and preventing destructive behaviors when owners are away. Modern dog crates are designed for convenience and portability, featuring sturdy materials and easy assembly. With proper crate training, dogs view their crates as personal retreats, leading to improved behavior and confidence.

Large Dog Crates

For larger dog breeds, having an appropriately sized crate is crucial, and trainers frequently recommend large dog crates for their spaciousness and comfort. These crates provide ample room for dogs to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Large dog crates are particularly valuable during the house training phase, offering sufficient space to discourage accidents and promote good behavior. They serve as secure retreats, allowing larger dogs to have a designated area to call their own. Well-ventilated and made from sturdy materials, these crates are designed to withstand the strength and energy of larger breeds.

Should I Crate Train my Puppy?

We wholeheartedly advocate for crating puppies when they're alone. Puppies often lack the impulse control to avoid chewing hazardous items, risking harm. In many cases, puppies ingest harmful objects, leading to surgeries and even fatalities. If someone opposes crating, it's entirely acceptable. Instead, they should bring their puppy everywhere or hire a sitter, just like they would for a young child. Just as you wouldn't leave a three-year-old child unattended in your home, the same applies to a young puppy. Safety and supervision are paramount.