This page provides links to some of the training equipment and enrichment SUPPLIES that we use and/or recommend to our clients.
Leashes, Collars and Harnesses
This harness is nearly custom fit as you purchase it in 3 sections. The Y-shaped chest piece allows for full range front leg motion. Each section has a wide felt band beneath the nylon strip to prevent chafing. This harness includes both front and rear D-rings for leash attachment.
This harness is based on the TTouch® UK harness that was designed by Sarah Fisher. It has a design that will not interfere with the dog’s forward movement and has two point of contact for leash attachment.
This harness has six points of adjustment so that it can be customized to comfortably fit almost any body style without constricting the dog’s forward motion. It has two points of attachment for multiple leash options.
This harness fits snugly, with a soft girth strap to prevent chafing. This harness works well while training a heavy leash puller. It comes with both front and back D-rings. The back D-ring is attached via a partial slip. The front clip is attached to a cross-chest strap that does work by restricting front leg motion.
PetSafe Two Point Control Nylon Dog Leash
This leash is very versatile. It can be used as a two point harness – clipped to both front and back D-rings for added control and weight distribution in large dogs; as a single 4-foot leash; or let out to make a longer leash for sniffing.
This harness is a great fit for odd-shaped pups, seniors and front leg amputees. It had two girth attachments and includes a handle in case you pup needs some help.
Lupine makes a full line of collars, leashes and harnesses in a wide variety of patterns for both dogs and cats. They offer a lifetime guarantee on all of their products – even if they are chewed through!
A 15- to 20-foot long line works great for training recalls, working on distance commands and taking your dog out on sniff walks.
Hands-free Leash System
Hands-free system work well for a variety of reasons. There are many brands and styles of hands-free systems. If you have a very strong dog, we recommend using something with a buckle (e.g., tool belt) and using a large carabiner to attach your leash.
If you are struggling with a strong puller or a reactive dog that lunges, this system can save your arm/shoulder as you are working on leash skill with your dog. This system was developed by Grisha Stewart and requires the following:
- Pulley Carabiner
- 2″ Aluminum O-ring
- Round long line (15feet is perfect, but this system works with leashes that are 6 feet and longer)
- Belt – this can be a standard belt, a hands-free leash belt, a tool belt, or even a couple of collars connected together. I prefer buckle closures over plastic clips for strong dogs.
Muzzle
There are a variety of muzzle types. If you are worried about bites, try the Baskerville Ultra or a cage-type muzzle like those sold by Dean & Tyler. Custom-made biothane muzzles can be effective and colorful – Bumas or Trust Your Dog.
See Muzzle Up Project for more information in choosing the best muzzle for your dog.
A few of my clients struggle with strong or giant breed dogs, this head halter can help. NewTrix halters do not pull from under the chin or turn the dog’s head. Instead, they put slight pressure on the back of the dog’s head to work with the opposition reflex to help with pulling.
This is NOT a magic cure or long-term solution for pulling! It should be used under the guidance of a trainers, acclimated properly and used only during leash manners training.
Enrichment Activities
SodaPup stocks a variety of treat dispenser toys, lickimats and chew toys.
Use coupon code CRIMSONHOUND to receive 10% off your next order.
This toy comes in a variety of sizes to address a variety of chewing levels.
The Toppl comes in three sizes. They are made to be used alone, or inserted into one another to increase the difficulty.
With K9 Connectables, you can purchase different pieces that can then be assembled to create new and different activities. Use this link and the coupon code crimsonhound10 to receive 10% off your order.
This toy has a weighted bottom and unscrews to fill with kibble or treats. When the dog nudges it, it rocks and treats drop out.
Another style of durable treat/food dispensing toy from West Paw.
A treat dispensing ball for beginners.
This toy is filled with kibble/treats and dispenses them as the dog pushes it across the floor.
Outward Hound offers a variety of puzzles and slow feeder bowls.
Snuffle Mats
These toys satisfy your dog’s instinctive need to sniff and forage. You can make your own snuffle mat (see our Toss the Food Bowl blog for instructions) or find a variety of options to purchase online.
Licki Mats
Licki Mats encourage your dog to lick – a calming behavior. You can find a variety of Licki Mats online. In addition, silicone treat molds and ice cube molds also work great.
Training Treats
Fig & Tyler Pet Treats
Fig & Tyler pet treats made from 100% meat and fish. We only use fresh meat and fish from right here in the USA and all of our meat is USDA-inspected.
Use the code KH3229 to receive 10% off your first order.
Training Treats
Medium value soft treats such as Tricky Trainers and Zuke’s work great when there are distractions. For heavy distractions, you may need to go with a very high value treat such as string cheese, chicken, hot dogs, peanut butter, etc.
Squeeze Tubes
Ssoft travel-size shampoo bottles work great for super soft high value treat like peanut butter, canned dog food, baby food, etc. You can also find refillable food tubes made for camping and dog training.
Miscellaneous Training Equipment
Similar to vinyl window decals, window film can be easily applied and removed with no residue or razor blades needed. If you have a dog that stares out the window and barks at passers by, this is a great way to stop this fixating behavior and prevent the resulting reactive outbursts. Window film lets in plenty of light, while not allowing your dog to see out. It can be left on permanently or used as a management tool while training alternative behaviors.
These 3-in-1 curtains are made to act as a sound barrier, a black out curtain and a thermal curtain. This can be a great option for a noise phobic/reactive dog, loud urban environments or to aid in setting up your dog’s safe space.
Baby Gates & Exercise Pens (x-pens)
Whether you have a puppy or an adult dog, baby gates and exercise pens are super versatile and can be used for both training and management purposes.