During my sessions with pet parents, I often find myself recommending certain products that can make training more effective and daily life more manageable.
While not every product featured here is right for every dog or every situation, these are some of my go-to suggestions based on common needs I see in my work.
Mendota Pet Leash
I love these particular leashes because they are super lightweight, round (which makes them easier to hold!), and made in the USA. They come in both thin (3/8”) and thicker (1/2”) options, with 4′ and 6′ lengths available. In addition to regular leashes, they also offer a great 15” foot leash (perfect for recall work) as well as indoor house leashes and slip leads.
- Mendota Pet Leashes (Code KATESENISISHEHER for 10% off!)
Martingale Collar
Standard flat buckle collars work well for dogs who aren’t pulling or lunging on leash. However, since I work with many dogs who are fearful, reactive, or strong pullers, a properly fitted Martingale collar is a great option. It provides security while evenly distributing pressure around the neck, unlike a standard buckle collar. I personally prefer martingales with a buckle clip for easy on-and-off!
- 2 Hounds Martingale Collars offers a great selection, and their products are made in the USA.
Balance Harness
Unfortunately, many harnesses marketed as “no-pull” actually restrict movement, impede a dog’s gait, and may even encourage pulling. While equipment alone won’t teach polite leash walking, the Balance Harness is one of the least restrictive options for forelimb movement and is highly adjustable. It also allows you to reduce the effectiveness of pulling without restricting natural movement. Bonus: It’s made in the USA.
Voila Treat Pouch
While my right-hand coat pocket is always full of crumbs, I know not everyone wants to live like that! I’ve tested so many treat pouches over the years, and this one is my favorite. Made of BPA-free silicone, it snaps open and closed easily and offers both a belt connector and a clip, so you can attach it to your coat or jeans. Another made-in-the-USA product.
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- Voila Standard Ultimate Treat Pouch 16 oz (Code KATESENISI for 10% off!)
Chase or Tug Toy
Play is a huge part of my work so I often recommend sturdy interactive toys.
- For dogs who love soft, furry textures, this Sheepskin Bungee Tug is a great choice.
- For dogs with a harder bite who love to grip, this Bite Suit Tug could be a better option.
Both are handmade by Redline K-9 in North America.
Snuffle Mat
There are many snuffle mats out there (hack: you can also use a towel or blanket!), but I’m currently loving the Reggie Stimulating Feeder Mat for Dogs. Its deeper pockets encourage more sniffing than most mats I’ve tried, and the built-in tray helps contain crumbs—a huge plus! Another made-in-the-USA product.
Trust Your Dog Custom Muzzle
For dogs with a bite history or those who need extra space on walks, Trust Your Dog Custom Muzzles are a game changer! While pricier than standard muzzles, they’re super soft, lightweight, and custom-designed for a comfortable fit. You can even add a treat hole for easier reinforcement. Many traditional muzzles partially block a dog’s vision—this one does not.
- Trust Your Dog Custom Biothane Muzzle (Code KATESENISI for 10% off!)
Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Protein Mix-in or Entree
Clients often ask, “What’s the best training treat?” My answer: It depends on your dog! When using food to lure, capture, or shape behaviors, you’ll want to experiment with what motivates your dog most. However, if I had to recommend just one at this moment, it would be these:
✔️ Stinky & highly motivating (a training win!)
✔️ Already in small training-size pieces
✔️ Single-protein options available (great for sensitive dogs)
✔️ Cheaper than traditional treats (they are technically a dog food, #hack!)
Lick-able Food Pouches
For dogs who chomp hard on treats or benefit from a calming reward while training, these can be a great option. They’re also convenient for reinforcing good behavior on walks—just pop the nozzle down and keep moving!
Chew Proof Tether
In small NYC apartments, many pet parents struggle with using crates or gates for management. When introduced properly, a tether can actually decrease frustration while providing structure—whether for a young puppy learning to settle or an adult dog working on self-regulation. My go-to choice: