Class Prep
Preparing for Class is Easy!
Here’s everything you’ll need to make sure your first session goes smoothly.
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Quick Checklist​​​​
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Training Den
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Flat Collar
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6ft Flat Leash
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Climb Platform or Bed
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Spare Collar
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Spare Bowl large enough to hold the spare collar
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Medium & High Value Treats
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Tug Toy (optional — we can help if your dog isn’t into tug yet)
1. Training Den
Start by watching this free episode from one of my favorite mentors, Susan Garrett, covering everything you need to know about a “training den”.
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Gear Recommendations
Flat Collar
I recommend a 2" tactical collar (for small dogs, follow store sizing recommendations).
See our collar page for why.
My two favorite sources:
Alpine Dog Co.
Sparkpaws
A Spare Oversized Collar
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A cheap flat collar (Dollar Store is fine)
— not for everyday wear.
Bowl for Spare Collar
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Stainless steel preferred, but any type will work.
3. Treats & Rewards
High & Medium Value Treats
We want both!
Example: high value = chopped, cooked rabbit;
medium value = chopped baby carrots.
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Choose organic, nutritious treats over store-made with unknown fillers.
Always check with your vet before introducing new foods, and test small amounts first.
Helpful food resources:
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AKC: Human Foods Dogs Can & Can’t Eat
Humane Society: Dangerous Foods & Plants
📄 We also have our own printable food value chart — perfect for multi-dog or multi-human households.
4. Tug Toy
Not a plain fetch ball —
pick something your dog loves to tug with. If your dog isn’t into tug yet, we can help!
Try a “puppy tug” first:
long, soft, thin rope — good for hand-shy dogs and easy to grip.
Note textures your dog enjoys (cloth, rubber, crackle sounds, etc.)
One of my favorites:
Organic Cotton Tug Toy
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