Your Dog’s Go-Home Supplies
Everything you need to continue your dog’s success at home.
As your dog’s training time with us comes to an end, it’s time to prepare for one of the most important parts of the process: bringing everything you and your dog have learned into your everyday life together.
Having the right tools ready before your dog comes home will help you maintain the structure, communication, and consistency we’ve established throughout their training journey.
Below are the tools and supplies we recommend to our clients at The EveryDay K9, along with why we use them and what to look for when choosing them.
Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means The EveryDay K9 may earn a commission if you make a purchase through them, at no additional cost to you. Our recommendations are based solely on the products and tools we use, trust, and recommend to our clients.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
The Essentials
E-collar (Electronic Collar)
Already Provided By The EveryDay K9!
If your dog is six months or older and their training program incorporates an e-collar, you do not need to purchase one.
The EveryDay K9 provides an E-Collar Technologies unit as part of your training program.
The e-collar is a communication tool that allows us to communicate with your dog clearly and consistently, both through distractions and also from a distance.
During your Go-Home lesson, we'll teach you how to properly fit, handle, and use your dog's e-collar so you understand not just how to use the tool, but why and when to use it.
Please do not purchase a different e-collar in preparation for your dog's return unless we've specifically discussed it with you.
Place Board
The “Place” command is one of the most versatile skills we teach. A place board gives your dog a clearly defined space where they can learn to settle while still being part of everyday life. Place can be used while eating dinner, answering the door, having guests over, cooking, cleaning, relaxing in the living room, or anytime your dog needs a little more structure. Helps teach calmness, boundaries, impulse control, and confidence.
We like Coolaroo raised dog beds because they are sturdy, elevated, easy to clean, and provide a clearly defined boundary for your dog. You don't necessarily need this exact bed. Any sturdy, appropriately sized raised bed with a clearly defined surface can work.
Slip Leash
A slip lead combines a leash and collar into one simple tool and is something we regularly use when working with dogs of all ages. When fitted and used properly, it allows you to provide clear guidance while maintaining control of your dog. It is also particularly useful because a properly fitted slip lead helps prevent a dog from escaping or backing out like can be done with a traditional flat collar or harness. One of our go-to tools for clear communication and safe handling! https://amzn.to/4gVD69E
We recommend Mendota Pet slip leads. They are durable, reliable, comfortable to handle, and hold up extremely well with regular use. But, most importantly, they have snug keepers! Remember: equipment is only as effective as the person using it. We'll show you how to properly fit and use your dog's slip leash during your Go-Home lesson.
Rewards
Find what motivates YOUR dog.
Rewards are an important part of keeping your dog engaged and communicating when they've made a good choice.
And remember: a reward doesn't always have to be food!
Treats
Choose small, high-value treats that your dog genuinely enjoys. Smaller pieces allow you to reward frequently without adding a large number of unnecessary calories.
Be mindful of how many treats your dog receives throughout the day, especially if they have a sensitive stomach.
Here are some treats we love!
https://amzn.to/4d988JT (Zuke’s, small and chewy)
https://amzn.to/4A3SOZ0 (Bocce’s, breakable and soft)
https://amzn.to/3SSpqUS (Pupford, freeze dried)
Toys
For some dogs, afavorite toy is more exciting than food.
Balls, squeaky toys, tug toys, and other interactive toys can all become valuable rewards. Choose something your dog enjoys that is safe, reusable, and appropriate for their size and play style.
Here are some toys and chews we love!
Toys - https://amzn.to/46Sf0HW (Kong, fillable and durable)
https://amzn.to/3SXNIwx (ChuckIt, ball and throw extension)
https://amzn.to/46fsEEV (squeaky, but tough)
Chews - https://amzn.to/4gI5T2z (Nylabone, flavored and strong)
https://amzn.to/4cClkH4 (Benebone, flavored and strong)
https://amzn.to/4iRlHRR (Yak Cheese, edible and flavor varieties)
Affection
Don't underestimate the value of YOU.
Verbal praise, physical affection, and interactive play can all be meaningful rewards. Part of becoming the best handler you can be is learning what motivates your individual dog and when to use it.
The Good to Haves
Martingale Collar
An added layer of security for dogs who may slip out of traditional collars.
A martingale collar uses a two-loop design that tightens within a limited range when tension is applied. This can make it especially helpful for dogs whose head and neck proportions make it easier to back out of a standard flat collar.
We also like having a collar on your dog for their identification and rabies tags!
We recommend Lupine martingale collars because of their durability and reliability. They also have a lifetime guarantee!
Proper sizing and fit are extremely important.
Longline
More freedom for your dog while keeping communication and control in your hands.
A slip lead long line combines two of our favorite training tools into one. It functions just like a traditional slip lead around your dog's neck but provides additional length, allowing your dog to explore, move naturally, and practice at further distances while you still maintain a physical connection.
Long lines are especially useful for practicing recall, outdoor training, distance commands, confidence building, and safely giving your dog more freedom before they're ready to be completely off leash.
We recommend a lightweight 15 to 20-foot slip lead long line with an adjustable keeper to help keep the slip loop properly positioned.
We recommend the BTINESFUL longlines because of it’s variety of lengths and durability.
When choosing one, look for:
• Slip lead design with no separate collar required
• Adjustable keeper for a secure fit
• Lightweight but durable material
• Enough length for distance work without becoming overly difficult to manage
• Comfortable material that's easy on your hands during training
Remember, a long line is designed to provide controlled freedom, not simply more leash. We'll show you how to properly handle and use it so you can safely incorporate more distance into your dog's training!
Collapsible Water Bowl
An easy item to keep with you for walks, training sessions, outings, and travel.
North Carolina gets HOT, and having fresh water available for your dog is important when you're away from home.
A lightweight collapsible bowl takes up very little space and can easily live in your training bag, backpack, purse, or vehicle so it's there when you need it.
We recommend SLSON bowls because not only are they collapsible, but they have a rim to help prevent splashing.
GPS Tracking Device
An optional additional layer of security.
Even with good training and responsible handling, accidents can happen. A GPS tracker can provide additional peace of mind by helping you locate your dog if they ever become lost.
We consider GPS tracking an optional tool rather than a substitute for proper identification, secure equipment, supervision, or training.
We recommend Fi GPS collars because of their known reliability and accurate locating abilities.
Treat Pouch
Keeps your rewards accessible and your hands free during training.
Timing matters when you're training your dog. Having your dog’s reward within easy reach allows you to reinforce good choices when they happen instead missing your window while searching for what you need.
A training pouch is an easy way to keep everything organized while leaving your hands free to handle your dog and leash.
We recommend the Heouvo training pouch because of it’s magnetic closure and easy to clean design.
When choosing a training pouch, we recommend looking for one that:
• Opens and closes easily, with a magnetic closure preferred
• Clips onto your clothing or can be worn around your waist
• Holds treats, small toys, and poop bags
• Is easy to clean for long-term use
The Basics
• Poop bags (https://amzn.to/4Am2QoD)
• Fresh water
• Your dog's identification tags (including rabies tag or tag number)
The Most Important Training Tool
Hint: It isn’t available on Amazon
Your Attitude + Body Language
You can buy every piece of training equipment on this page and still be missing the most important part of your dog's training:
You!
Your body language, mindset, energy, timing, and consistency are some of the most powerful tools you have. They're also the only training tools you'll have with you 100% of the time.
Dogs are constantly observing us. Your posture, movement, tone, timing, and reactions communicate information to your dog even when you haven't said a word.
Aim to be calm, clear, and confident.
Most importantly, remember:
Your dog is always learning.
Training doesn't end when your dog goes home. The work we've done creates the foundation. What you do together at home is what turns that foundation into an everyday lifestyle.
Questions About Your Dog’s Supplies?
Every dog is different. If you're unsure about sizing, equipment, rewards, or which products are appropriate for your individual dog, please ask us before purchasing.
We are here to help set both your dog AND your family up for success!