What to bring to training class:
Updated: Jan 8
If you're starting a puppy class or manners class with Wiserdog or if you're getting prepared for your new addition, this is the list for you! Here's what to pack in your dog's bag for class. You don't have to buy everything at once, I'm just providing some options for you. Disclaimer: I receive a fraction of a penny if you choose to use the Amazon Links below to purchase, the program does not change your price.
A note on equipment fitting:
When it comes to management/containment equipment such as collars, leashes, and harnesses, my rule is that it should be fitted so that they absolutely cannot escape it. Try to pull your dog's harness or collar off over their head like a T-shirt and if you can slip it off then it's possible for them to back out of it. It needs to be adjusted tight enough that the elbows cannot get under the girth.
If you are in my classes and loose leash walking is important to you I encourage you to enforce these two rules:
1) If the leash is attached to the dog's collar, pulling will NEVER work.
2) If you don't have the time or patience to train in that moment use the dog's harness.
I start my puppies in harnesses and when I'm ready and committed to training a loose leash walk I will switch to a collar. This allows the collar pressure to be learned as important information, and not something to ignore.
Harnesses
Typically I start young puppies in a Y style or "Roman"style harness (I don't recommend the type that clips behind the shoulder blades). I suggest using a price effective option as the first purchase since puppies will grow. We will teach them how to behave in a collar later, but we don't want to let them practice pulling in a collar until we're ready to teach them not to do it. My suggestions with links for harnesses are below. Be sure to measure the girth and compare it to the size chart.
Harness Lead - This will fit any size dog and adjust as the dog grows: https://amzn.to/3Acg9ee
Yellow Dog Design Roman Style Harness https://amzn.to/3GqSE2X (lightweight for small dogs)
Lupine Pet Roman Dog Harness - https://amzn.to/3w6DJWw (Pretty color options)
Blue 9 - Harness - https://amzn.to/3MYFED0
Collars
The collar needs to be adjusted so that it cannot be slipped over the ears. I frequently suggest a martingale collar as it loosens and tightens when needed. Dogs should wear collars with identification (a tag with your phone number).
For dogs that will grow to 60 lbs or more I recommend a head halter like the Gentle Leader. If you are using a head halter such as the Gentle Leader, the neck strap needs to be fitted as a snug fitting collar, but the snout strap should be loose enough to be comfortable (at least after it's been trained and conditioned).
Martingale Style Collar - https://amzn.to/37ns793
Gentle Leader (you must train this) - https://amzn.to/3vOX9jy
Leads & Leashes
When it comes to the best leash, I suggest doubling the leash over in your hand and having a friend pull hard. Is it comfortable in your hand? My personal preference is Biothane or Leather. For classes, I recommend a 6 foot leash or a 4 foot leash (for taller dogs).
Find something that you like to touch, especially if you like walking your dog. Soft leather is always a favorite, but a 1" wide nylon lead is too wide to double over and grip, at least in my medium sized hands. Find something you like. If we will be working on “Come When Called” or Fetch, you will definitely need a long line. (I recommend between 13 and 20 feet)
Biothane Leash: https://amzn.to/3vOZoU0
Leather Lead: https://amzn.to/37lN3NI
13 Foot Biothane Lead https://amzn.to/3kKUcdJ or https://amzn.to/3vSB83b
Slip Lead (for quick potty breaks, & control) https://amzn.to/3Ed8nCC
Treat Pouch:
I really like a treat pouch that goes around my waist. I have 2 that I adore. My personal preference is pouches that have a hinge type closure. I've spilled so many treats in my life that's on my required list. I also tend to like an extra pocket or two. You will fumble with the drawstring style. I also use the waist belt to clip the dog's leash to sometimes.
Doggone Good Training Pouch - https://amzn.to/3LSXCH8 or https://amzn.to/3seVZMg
The Petsafe Pouch has also been in my favorites lineup: https://amzn.to/3QtTzTm
A More masculine style "tool belt" https://amzn.to/3DPDjaI
ORIA Dog Treat Training Pouch https://amzn.to/3FZehbJ
Treats
We will use quite a few treats in class. I usually find that I can use a high value "Treat Kibble" supplemented with a couple mozzarella cheese sticks is plenty for a puppy class. Older dogs might need something more. See my article here for more detail. Here are some of my favorites from Amazon. All Sizes of Dog:
The Real Meat Company https://amzn.to/3C4tnuy
Finley's (Comes in several flavors! - Available at Feeder's Supply) https://amzn.to/3SDRGWd
Bil Jac - Lil Jac's https://amzn.to/3bFQZLC
Pill Pockets https://amzn.to/3zEMzfO
Happy Howwies https://amzn.to/3psIyqh
Ziwi Peak Dog Food: https://amzn.to/3AcISj1
Treats for Small Dogs
Pill Pockets https://amzn.to/3zEMzfO
Royal Canin X-Small Puppy https://amzn.to/3vQ1qmz
Fromm Lamb & Lentil or Turducken (better price at Feeder's Supply) https://amzn.to/3dlmPh8
Treats for Large Dogs
Happy Howwies https://amzn.to/3psIyqh
Rich Dog Food Like Orijen : https://amzn.to/3pa5ABS
The Honest Kitchen Clusters https://amzn.to/3zJYd9f
Chews
You'll thank your past self if you prepared a long lasting chew for your dog in advance. Sometimes there's a little downtime during lecture and being able to provide something for your puppy or dog to chew on can help lower both your stress level and theirs. We never recommend rawhides for your pet and always consult with your veterinarian if you have concerns.
Here are some of my favorites:
Bully Sticks: https://amzn.to/3X2nAO8
Beef Cheek Rolls: https://amzn.to/3XjKXlX
Beef Cheek Chips: https://amzn.to/3GtWGau
Farm Hounds Hides: http://farmhounds.refr.cc/kathleenkiefer
Bonus Favorites:
Food Stuffable Toys:
Toppl: https://amzn.to/3vV00Hq
King Chew https://amzn.to/3QeuCvv
Orbee Snoop: https://amzn.to/3C4HQGS
Tug Toys:
West Paw Judith: https://amzn.to/3JMPbg5
Clean Run Tug https://amzn.to/3A6NJkD
Redline K9 Shaggy Puppy Tug https://amzn.to/3Pfw3bN
Ball on Rope https://amzn.to/3dlAVPv
Add your own rope: https://amzn.to/3vUDn5O
Your dog is always learning from you so set yourself up for success, have the right stuff to learn together, and have fun! We're looking forward to seeing you in classes.