Whenever a new client purchases a puppy or dog training package from me, they instantly receive an automated email with information about what they can expect from me (and what I will expect from them) during the entirely of the package, tips on how to train effectively, scheduling, and various contracts and pledges, to name a few.

Another vital section of the email is the list of things that I believe they should already have (or something similar), and if not, what they should purchase, to ensure that they are sufficiently equipped to maximize the chance of success while they (and their dog) are on this training journey with me.

And because I get asked a lot about what specific training gear/supplies I recommend to my clients when I start working with them, I thought I’d simply give you the exact list of items I recommend to my new clients:

Training Treats

Fig & Tyler

One of my favorite brands for high-value treats is Fig & Tyler. They were created by pet parent who, like us, were overwhelmed by the vast number of treat choices, and had a problem finding something healthy and were made from recognizable ingredients. Their treats are made from 100% USDA-inspected meat and fish, and is made right here in the US. I usually recommend the “Trainer’s Pick”, which you can find here.

ZIWI

I love these “Lamb Recipe” training treats from ZIWI. Ziwi was founded in 2002 in New Zealand by Peter Mitchell, a founder that was frustrated by how many companies blended raw ingredients with inexpensive fillers, resulting in highly-processed kibble. As a result, Ziwi dog food and treats are free from fillers and artificial binders, which deliver peak nutrition without compromise.

Sojos

I really like these Simply Beef Freeze-Dried Treats from Sojos. Their Simply Meat Treats are gently freeze-dried so all of the natural enzymes in raw meat are carefully protected, and pampered pooches get the real, raw meat they crave. No artificial preservatives, artificial flavors or color and nothing from China.

Harness

2 Hounds Design

I recommend the Freedom No Pull Dog Harness from 2 Hounds Design. They are comfortable, secure, available in a variety of colors, and simply works!

Long Leash (15’)

I love the 1/2” x 15 ft Biothane Long Leash from Viper. I want to ensure that my clients have a leash that will simultaneously give their dog more freedom, while maintaining control. It’s light weight, water proof, and easy to clean.

Treat/Utility Bag

Wilderdog

This is a recent discovery of mine, and I recommend this Utility Pack from Wilderdog to everyone, including my clients. It’s stylish, large (but not too large), has a very cool built-in poop bag dispenser that’s been a game changer for me, easy to clean (just throw it in the washing machine), and backed by a lifetime warranty.

Chews, Bones, Bully Sticks

Good Lovin’

I recommend the No Rawhide Dog Chews from Good Lovin’.

Interactive and Food Dispensing Dog Toys

My list of recommended interactive and food-dispensing toys necessitated its own blog post, which you can find here.

For more information about enrichment, check out our podcast episode we did with fellow dog trainer, Erin Gianella, below!