What to Bring to Training Class: Simple Essentials to Set You Up for Success 🐾

Starting a new training class can feel like a big step, especially if it’s your first time! Whether you’ve got a curious puppy, a cheeky adolescent, or a grown-up dog ready to learn something new, coming prepared makes a huge difference to how relaxed and focused you both feel.

At Paw on Heart, I want to help you get the most out of our time together. So I’ve put together a quick and simple guide to the bits and pieces you’ll need for class. Nothing fancy, I promise - just the essentials that help keep things smooth and stress-free.

🧰 Your Training Toolkit

Let’s take a look at what to pack and why each thing makes a difference.

Flat Collar – Comfy and Secure

Your dog’s collar should be snug enough that they can’t slip out of it, but not tight. We’ll be doing some movement-based training and a comfy collar makes it easy for your dog to focus without fuss. Please avoid slip leads or anything too bulky or restrictive unless we’ve already discussed it - we want your dog to feel safe and free to move.

6ft Lead – Ideal for Training

A standard 6ft lead gives your dog just the right amount of freedom to move while still staying close for rewards and guidance. It’s perfect for classroom settings where shorter leads can feel too tight and retractables tend to get in the way or tangle.

Treat Pouch – Reward Without the Faff

Quick rewards = better learning. A treat pouch lets you mark and reward behaviour in the moment, which is so important when teaching new skills. No more fumbling in your pockets! Any pouch that’s easy to open and wear comfortably will do.

High-Value Treats – Tiny and Tasty!

Bring treats your dog absolutely loves - soft, smelly, easy-to-chew things like chicken, cheese, or small shop-bought training treats. We’ll be doing lots of repetition and building focus, so it helps to have something really motivating. Think: “worth working for even with other dogs around” kind of tasty.

🐾 Optional: Clicker and Mat

There are plenty of opinions on this, but if you already use a clicker, feel free to bring it along. Same with a training mat if your dog is used to one - it can give them a comfy place to settle between activities. Totally optional though, so don’t worry if you haven’t used these before.

Tip for Success: Settle Your Dog Before Class Starts

Arriving a little early and giving your dog a chance to sniff, move around, and do some simple focus games can really help them settle in. It’s a lovely way to ease into class mode without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Training should feel fun and empowering - not something to stress over. Pack your essentials, bring your enthusiasm (and your pup!), and we’ll take it from there. I can’t wait to see you in class.

Have a question?