The Dog Training Starter Pack: 7 Essentials Every New Dog Owner Needs
Dog training can feel really overwhelming. Social media is filled with a million and one suggestions about what tools to use, what food is best, and everything in between. It can be hard to know where to start. To help lighten the load, here is my list of the essentials you'll need to begin your training journey—or, in other words, "the training starter pack."
Disclosure: Any training tools listed are intended to be used with guidance from a qualified dog trainer, such as Brianna at Kobri Dog Training LLC.
The first thing you need is a reliable leash. Walks are one of the most important parts of your relationship with your dog. They're how you connect, build communication, and help fulfill your dog's physical and mental needs. My preferred tool to support all of this is a slip leash. A slip leash works on a "pressure on, pressure off" system that helps you communicate with and guide your dog toward a loose leash walk. Depending on what you plan to work on—whether that's loose leash walking or recall—you may choose to invest in a long-line slip leash or a standard 8-10 foot leash. There are some amazing, high-quality slip leashes available, but if cost is a concern, Amazon also has affordable slip collars that can be paired with a leash you already own.
Once you have the right leash, the next essential is a high-value reward. For many dogs, this means high-value treats. I love using single-ingredient, or at least low-ingredient, high-protein treats so we can reward frequently without worrying too much about excess calories. To keep things organized and accessible, I also recommend using a treat pouch—any style will do. Of course, we can't always control what our dogs find rewarding, so some pups may prefer a favorite toy instead. Figure out what motivates your dog the most and be sure to have that reward with you during walks and training sessions.
An important part of training is teaching our dogs to relax away from us and giving them the opportunity to truly rest. Two items that can help with this are a crate and a placemat. Crates provide a safe space for rest after walks and overnight. Teaching your dog to relax in the crate is incredibly important, as many dogs aren't getting the amount of sleep they actually need each day (did you know they can need up to 18 hours of sleep?). It's also valuable because, at some point in their lives, they'll likely need to be comfortable in a crate—whether it's at the veterinarian, while boarding, or during travel. Placemats are another fantastic tool for building a"patio dog" and teaching calm behavior throughout the home. Training starts slowly, and over time we build distance and duration, often by tethering with our handy slip leash—another great use for that versatile tool.
These items alone are an excellent place to start, but some dogs may benefit from additional tools. One example is an e-collar. For certain dogs—particularly those struggling with leash pressure despite proper leash training or those working toward reliable off-leash freedom—an e-collar can be an effective communication tool when introduced correctly and under professional guidance. Like any training tool, it can be used incorrectly, which is why proper education is so important. When used appropriately and at the right stage of training, it can help provide greater freedom and reliability for your dog. Another helpful addition is a treadmill. This is a great option for owners who need help meeting their dog's exercise needs, especially when weather or other circumstances make outdoor walks difficult. You can purchase a dog-specific treadmill or use a human treadmill that is long enough to accommodate your dog's natural gait. While neither of these tools is essential for every dog, they can be valuable additions to your training starter pack when appropriate.
Finally, as mentioned earlier, walks are a massive part of training and your dog's overall well-being. That means it's just as important for you to be comfortable. My last recommendation is investing in a good pair of walking shoes. This is definitely subjective—everyone's feet are different—but taking the time to find the right pair will make those daily walks much more enjoyable for both you and your pup. (I will say, though, I absolutely love my Hoka sneakers!)
Remember, no piece of equipment trains a dog on its own. The best results come from clear communication, consistency, and building a strong relationship with your dog. Start with the basics, focus on quality over quantity, and don't hesitate to seek professional guidance if you need it. With the right tools and a solid training plan, you and your pup will be well on your way to many successful adventures together.
