One expense that people sometimes overlook when preparing to adopt a dog is the cost of training. In addition to potentially hiring a professional or taking classes, you need to practice at home so your dog can actually learn. And to do that, you need a variety of tools and toys. As a dog parent of two myself, I was able to compile a list of dog-training tools that have come in handy for myself and my dog parent friends. From no-pull harnesses to treat puzzles, there’s something for every pup. And best of all, they’re all under $50.
Of course, good behavior is priceless. So, what are you waiting for? A good pup awaits.
Our Favorite Dog Training Tools Under $50
1. Rewards: Rewards are a crucial part of training—when I first adopted both of my pups, I went through several bags of these training treats per week. They’re small and easy for on-the-go snacking. Find a flavor your fur baby likes, and make them work for it.
2. On-the-Go: Get yourself a treat pouch to take poop bags and training treats with you when you go outside. You’ll be able to easily reward their good behavior while also cleaning up after them. The best part is that you can wear it as a crossbody, fanny pack or attached at your belt loop.
3. No Pull: This slip lead leash can help with walking because it’s designed to tighten slightly when your dog pulls. But it depends on the dog, and if you’re using them properly—we recommend doing some research or consulting a trainer before trying it yourself.
4. Easy Walking: If a slip-lead isn’t your style, opt for this no-pull harness. It’s comfortable on your pup and prevents tugging, pulling and choking. And the best part? You can get it personalized with your dog’s name, as well as your address and phone number.
5. Let’s Go: To go with the harness, you’ll want this sturdy leash for long walks and hikes. Even if you have yard space, taking walks strengthens the bond with your dog and provides a good time to work on different behaviors.
6. Good Boy: Another popular method is clicker training. Associate good behaviors by sounding this clicker, and then delivering some sort of reward (a treat, praise, etc.). Watch a video or consult a trainer on how to use it. But since it’s relatively harmless and only $5, it’s a good investment.
7. Enrichment Training: Stimulate your pup’s mind with this treat puzzle. You can use treats or even their dinner to boost their IQ and get their juices flowing while they dine. While this isn’t a hands-on training tool, it reinforces good behaviors (you can use it as a reward) and encourages problem-solving skills.
8. Educational Play: My dog’s trainer recommended getting this flirt pole to provide some additional physical and mental stimulation; invigorate her prey drive and train her impulse control. They’re cheap, and dogs love playing with them—plus, it’s a great way to further bond with your fur baby.
9. Recall: This long line is a fabulous tool for practicing recall. It measures at 30 feet and still connects to their collar or harness, so when you want to call them back, they’re still attached to you.
10. Tracking: Once your fur baby has mastered recall, it may be time to get them a GPS collar, especially if you’re hiking off-leash. Tractive’s GPS collar shows their real-time location every 2-3 seconds and even keeps track of their health stats.
11. Safety Spot: Although crate training isn’t essential, using a crate like this Amazon Basics one can provide as a safe space for your pup when they’re overwhelmed or anxious. Just make sure to get the right size and account for the fact that if your dog is a puppy, they may need a crate they can grow into.
12. Fetch: Fetch is a fantastic physical and mental outlet for high-energy dogs. It’s also a great way for you to bond with your pup, and it teaches them to retrieve. And since your arm may get tired after the hundredth toss, grab this Chuckit! ball launcher. It’s worth the $10 purchase.
