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Curated gear recommendations for your training journey- Updated April 2026



I put together this list to make your training journey a little easier. Everything on it reflects my own preferences as a trainer — items I have vetted for safety, quality, and practicality. Most of these you won't find at your local pet store, especially the leashes and collars. What's available in stores tends to prioritize looks over function and is rarely professional grade. These are the tools that actually hold up and that your dog will respond well to.


Please note that these are personal recommendations only. I am not affiliated with these brands (unless a discount code is noted) and assume no liability for the purchase or use of any item on this list. As always, use your judgment and reach out if you have questions about what is appropriate for your dog.


My Amazon list of training tools and equipment:


My go-to leashes:


For most dogs, I use biothane from NotSoStandard on Etsy. Waterproof, easy to clean, and built to last.



Evergreen Dog Co. is another favorite — handmade in the USA, best-in-class hardware, beautiful color range, and their multi-way leash is especially versatile.


For small dogs, I reach for the micro slip lead from Paracord Gear by That Decoy Chick. Handmade to order in your choice of color — ask for the 4-foot length.


My go-to collar: Gray and Hound, handmade in Oregon. The canvas doesn't stretch, the colors and prints are gorgeous and don't fade, and the hardware is genuinely strong — I have never had one release or break open. That last part matters more than people realize. I recommend the standard width for most dogs, and the 1.5" wide for stronger dogs, dogs with a long neck, or dogs with short hair.


My go-to training collar: Kimberland prong collars. When recommended as part of a training plan, this is the brand I trust — handcrafted in the USA from stainless steel, available in micro sizes for small dogs all the way up to large breeds, and built to communicate clearly without excess force. Sizing matters with prong collars, so always check their fitting chart and reach out if you have questions.


Use code LESPAWTOUNES10 for a discount.


My go-to front-clip harness: the Blue-9 Buckle-Neck Balance Harness. Six points of adjustment for a genuinely precise fit, full freedom of movement, and a buckle neck design that goes on like a collar — no pulling over the head. Made in the USA. Check their size chart carefully before ordering.


My go-to dog bed: Kuranda aluminum elevated beds. Aircraft-grade aluminum frame, chew-proof design, easy to hose clean, and rated for dogs up to 250 lbs — used in kennels and shelters for good reason.


My go-to crates — I recommend two depending on your situation:


RuffLand Performance Kennels are my top pick for car transport. One-piece roto-molded construction with no seams or hardware to fail, flexible walls that absorb impact, and easy to clean.


Impact Dog Crates are my pick for home use, especially for dogs with escape tendencies or separation anxiety. Heavy-duty aluminum construction, lifetime warranty, and a High Anxiety model that comes with a lifetime dog damage guarantee — if your dog breaks it, they replace it.


For apartment and condo living with a patio or balcony: Porch Potty. A grass potty station with a built-in drainage system — one of the most practical tools for potty training when outdoor access is limited or inconvenient. Makes the process significantly easier for both you and your dog.


My chew recommendations: I put together a separate guide covering my favorite chews, how to use them, and where to find them. Chewing is one of the most underutilized tools for mental exercise and dental health — worth a read.


If you have questions about what makes sense for your dog

specifically, just reach out.


Nathalie

Les Pawtounes Dog Training

 
 
 

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