Training Tools Reviews

Having the right tools can make all the difference in your training journey. While you can train a pet with just treats and patience, the right equipment can make training more efficient, clearer for your pet, and more enjoyable for you. From simple clickers to specialized training aids, this guide covers the essential tools that can help you and your pet succeed.

Clickers and Marker Training Tools

Clicker training is one of the most effective methods for teaching pets new behaviors. A clicker is a small device that makes a distinct "click" sound, which serves as a marker to tell your pet exactly when they've done something right. The click bridges the gap between the behavior and the reward, making learning faster and clearer.

What to Look For in a Clicker

• Sound quality: The click should be distinct and consistent—not too loud or too quiet
• Ease of use: You should be able to click it easily with one hand, even when holding treats or a leash
• Durability: Training involves a lot of clicking, so the device should hold up to frequent use
• Volume control: Some clickers have adjustable volume, which is helpful for noise-sensitive pets or quiet environments

Basic clickers are inexpensive (usually under $5) and widely available. You can also use verbal markers like "yes" or "good," but clickers offer more precision and consistency. Some trainers prefer clickers with wrist straps or keychain attachments for easy access.

Training Treats and Rewards

Treats are your primary training currency, so choosing the right ones matters. The best training treats are small, soft, and highly motivating for your pet. You'll be giving a lot of them during training sessions, so they need to be something your pet loves but won't fill them up too quickly.

Characteristics of Good Training Treats

• Small size: Treats should be bite-sized (pea-sized for small dogs, slightly larger for big dogs) so your pet can eat them quickly and training can continue
• Soft texture: Soft treats are easier to eat quickly and less likely to crumble in your pocket or treat pouch
• High value: Training treats should be more exciting than your pet's regular food. Save special treats just for training to maintain their value
• Healthy ingredients: Since you'll be giving many treats, choose options with quality ingredients
• Easy to handle: Treats should be easy to grab quickly from a treat pouch or pocket

Types of Training Treats

Commercial training treats come in many forms: freeze-dried meats, soft chews, training kibble, and more. Many trainers also use human food like small pieces of chicken, cheese, or hot dogs (cut into tiny pieces). The key is finding what motivates your individual pet. Some pets work for their regular kibble, while others need something more exciting.

Consider having different "values" of treats: regular treats for easy behaviors, and high-value treats (like freeze-dried liver or real meat) for difficult situations or when working around distractions.

Leashes and Harnesses

The right leash and harness can make a huge difference in training, especially for loose-leash walking and recall work. Different tools serve different purposes, and what works for one pet might not work for another.

Types of Leashes

• Standard leashes: Usually 4-6 feet long, these are versatile for most training situations. Look for comfortable handles and durable materials
• Long lines: 15-30 foot leashes that give your pet freedom while maintaining control. Excellent for recall training in open spaces
• Retractable leashes: Generally not recommended for training as they teach pets to pull and don't provide consistent feedback
• Training leashes: Some trainers prefer specific lengths or materials for different training exercises

Harnesses vs. Collars

For training, especially loose-leash walking, many trainers prefer front-clip harnesses. These attach at the chest, so when your pet pulls, they're redirected back toward you rather than forward. This makes it easier to teach them not to pull.

Back-clip harnesses are comfortable and good for dogs who don't pull, but they don't discourage pulling the way front-clip harnesses do. Head halters (like Gentle Leaders) can be effective for strong pullers but require proper introduction and fitting.

Flat collars are fine for dogs who walk nicely on leash, but they're not ideal for training loose-leash walking, especially with pullers. Avoid choke chains, prong collars, or shock collars—these can cause physical and psychological harm and aren't necessary with proper positive reinforcement training.

Training Mats and Platforms

Training mats or platforms are excellent tools for teaching "place" commands, improving focus, and providing a clear target for your pet. They give your pet a specific spot to go to, which is useful in many training scenarios.

You can use commercial training platforms, yoga mats cut to size, bath mats, or even just a specific towel or blanket. The key is consistency—once your pet learns that this mat means "stay here," you can use it in various situations.

Puzzle Toys and Mental Stimulation Tools

Training isn't just about teaching commands—it's also about providing mental stimulation. Puzzle toys, food-dispensing toys, and interactive games keep your pet's mind engaged and can be used as rewards or training tools themselves.

Kong toys, puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, and treat-dispensing balls are all excellent for mental stimulation. These tools can also be used to teach problem-solving, improve focus, and provide enrichment when you're not actively training.

Target Sticks

Target sticks are simple but versatile training tools. They're usually telescoping sticks with a ball or button on the end. You teach your pet to touch the target, then use that behavior to guide them into positions or movements. Target training is particularly useful for teaching tricks, improving focus, and working with pets who are hesitant about being touched.

You can buy commercial target sticks or make your own with a dowel and a small ball or button. Some trainers use their hand as a target, which works well but requires your pet to be comfortable with hands approaching them.

Treat Pouches and Training Bags

A good treat pouch makes training much more convenient. Instead of fumbling with treats in your pocket or a bag, a treat pouch keeps treats easily accessible and your hands free. Look for pouches that:

• Clip securely to your belt or waistband
• Have easy-to-open closures (magnetic or velcro)
• Are easy to clean (many are machine washable)
• Have enough capacity for a full training session
• Are comfortable to wear

Training Aids for Specific Behaviors

House Training Aids

For house training, enzymatic cleaners are essential. These break down the proteins in urine and feces, eliminating odors that might attract your pet back to the same spot. Regular cleaners don't fully remove these scents, which can confuse your pet.

Potty bells hung on the door can help some dogs communicate when they need to go out. You train your pet to ring the bell when they need to eliminate.

Bite Inhibition Tools

For puppies learning bite inhibition, having appropriate chew toys is crucial. Look for toys that are safe, durable, and appealing to your puppy. Different textures and types can help satisfy their need to chew while teaching them what's appropriate to bite.

Choosing Tools That Work for You

The best training tools are the ones you'll actually use. Consider your lifestyle, your pet's needs, and your training goals when selecting equipment. You don't need everything at once—start with the basics (treats, a clicker, a good leash and harness) and add other tools as needed.

Remember that tools are just that—tools. They support your training, but the most important elements are consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement. A simple clicker and some good treats can accomplish amazing things when used correctly.