Ellie's Picks: Gear We Use
Everything I used w/ Ellie since she was a puppy.
Training Essentials
The core gear you need to start training right
Treat Pouch
Clip-on, hands-free treat pouch. You'll use this every single session. Makes rewarding fast and consistent.
View on AmazonTraining Treats
Small, soft, high-value treats that keep your dog focused. Essential for positive reinforcement training.
View on AmazonStandard Leash (4-6ft)
Your everyday leash for walks and basic training. Skip the retractable ones — a fixed-length leash gives you way more control.
View on AmazonLong Line (16ft)
A game-changer for recall training. Gives your dog freedom to explore while you maintain control. We use this at the park daily.
View on AmazonNo-Pull Harness
Front-clip harness that gently discourages pulling. Way better than a collar for leash training — easier on their neck too.
View on AmazonTraining Clicker
Simple marker tool for precise timing. Click at the exact moment your dog gets it right — speeds up learning dramatically.
View on AmazonCommunication Buttons
Recordable buttons your dog can press to communicate. Sounds gimmicky, works shockingly well. Ellie uses hers for "outside" and "play."
View on AmazonPuppy Starter Kit
All-in-one starter bundle if you're bringing a new puppy home. Covers the basics so you're not scrambling on day one.
View on AmazonPotty Training
Survive the potty training phase with your sanity intact
Grass Pee Pad
Real or artificial grass pad for indoor potty training. Perfect for apartments or when you can't get outside fast enough.
View on AmazonPotty Bells for Door
Hang these on your door handle and teach your dog to ring them when they need to go. Takes about a week to learn — saves months of accidents.
View on AmazonTraining Pee Pads
Backup option for indoor training. Use these under the grass pad or on their own for overnight coverage.
View on AmazonPotty Training Pads
Extra absorbent pads for crate and pen areas. Stock up — you'll go through more than you think.
View on AmazonEnrichment & Mental Stimulation
A tired brain = a well-behaved dog
Classic Kong
The GOAT of dog toys. Stuff it with peanut butter, freeze it, and buy yourself 30 minutes of peace. We use this daily.
View on AmazonDurable Kong (Red/Black)
For aggressive chewers. The black version is nearly indestructible — Ellie hasn't made a dent yet.
View on AmazonKong Filler
Easy-squeeze filling for your Kong. Layer it with treats and freeze overnight for maximum engagement.
View on AmazonSnuffle Mat
Sprinkle kibble in the folds and let your dog forage. Engages their nose, slows down eating, and tires them out mentally.
View on AmazonPuzzle Toy — Beginner
Start here. Slide-and-reveal puzzle that keeps them thinking without being frustrating. Great for building confidence.
View on AmazonPuzzle Toy — Intermediate
Once they crush the beginner puzzle, move here. Multi-step problem solving that actually challenges a smart dog.
View on AmazonTreats, Chews & Toys
Keep them happy, healthy, and occupied
Puppy Dental Chews
Keeps their teeth clean while satisfying the chewing instinct. Better than letting them destroy your furniture.
View on AmazonTough Durable Chew Toy
For dogs that destroy everything. This one actually lasts. If your dog is a power chewer, skip the cheap stuff and get this.
View on AmazonBag of Balls
Bulk pack of tennis balls. Because they always end up under the couch, in the neighbor's yard, or mysteriously vanish.
View on AmazonTug Toy Pack
Great for interactive play and impulse control. Tug is one of the best bonding activities — and it wears them out fast.
View on AmazonElevated Food Bowls
Better posture while eating, easier on joints. Looks cleaner than bowls on the floor too.
View on AmazonGrooming & Cleaning
Keep your dog (and your house) clean
Grooming / Trim Kit
Clippers, scissors, nail trimmer — everything you need for at-home grooming. Saves a ton on groomer visits.
View on AmazonGrooming Gloves
Pet and de-shed at the same time. Most dogs actually enjoy this — Ellie thinks she's just getting a massage.
View on AmazonPuppy Shampoo
Gentle, tearless formula made for puppies. Smells great and won't irritate their skin.
View on AmazonDoggy Deodorant
Quick spray between baths. Keeps them smelling fresh without a full wash. A lifesaver after park sessions.
View on AmazonPet Wipes
Earth Rated wipes for quick cleanups — paws after walks, muddy faces, random messes. Keep a pack by the door.
View on AmazonHome & General
Set up your home for training success
Medium Crate
Wire crate with divider — grows with your puppy. Crate training is one of the best things you can do early. This one is solid.
View on AmazonSmaller Crate
Travel-size or secondary crate. Good for the car, a second room, or if your dog is on the smaller side.
View on AmazonIndoor Playpen
Safe containment area when you can't supervise directly. Great for puppies still learning boundaries around the house.
View on AmazonRetractable Gate
Block off rooms without drilling into walls. Rolls out when needed, disappears when you don't. We have two.
View on AmazonDog Bed
Comfortable bed for their designated spot. Having a "place" to go is a training tool in itself.
View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, HEEL earns from qualifying purchases. Every product on this page is something we genuinely use and recommend.