Welcome to my tools & favorite things.
One of the questions I'm often asked is "What do you use?".
I created a resource page to answer that!
I also found when I first launched Happy Hounds Dog Training I was quite overwhelmed by starting a business and website. Over time I found the software & tools I needed. I've also included my biz tools on this page in case it helps other small business owners :)
Quick Disclosure: Happy Hounds uses affiliate links. Purchasing with these links will not cost you any extra, but I get commissions for purchases made through these links. I only suggest things that I genuinely use! Affiliate links help me to continue to offer the free resources, blog posts, and social media advice that I share. I would love if you used them!
When clients ask what I personally use with my dog or for training, this is where I direct them!
Does your dog bark out the window?? This will help! I used this film on my windows while training my own dog to stop barking.
For almost all walks, I suggest using a 6 ft leash. Give your dog enough length to sniff!
Do you have a stressful event (fireworks, vet, road trip) coming up? This spray works wonders for some dogs. I suggest spraying it on your dogs collar.
Think of it like swaddling an infant! Thunder shirts work really well at decreasing anxiety during events like storms, fireworks, etc.
Eating too quickly can make dogs sick & bloated. Slow it down! This bowl also works great for lengthening meal times if working on resource guarding.
This is the water bottle I use for my dog and I LOVE it. The top is a built-in bowl for her to drink from, and the button re-collects any water she didn't drink!
I work with many separation anxiety dogs, and one of the most crucial tools required is a camera so we can observe their behaviour. Furbo is a client fav.
Wish you had a way to politely tell people not to pet your dog while it's in training?? Now you do! I love these leash sleeves that speak for you.
Whenever possible. I suggest clients do the majority of the dogs grooming themselves. You can slowly expose your dog to tools & get them comfortable.
I hike with my dog a LOT! Here are a few of the things I personally use:
K9 Sport Sack:
We always hope that hikes will go perfectly, but make sure you have a plan for carrying your dog out if necessary! Use coupon code HappyHounds for 10% off!
Hiking Harness:
A high quality, properly fitting harness is so important for hikes.
Use coupon code HappyHounds for 10% off at Rocky Mountain Dog!
Dog Water Bottle:
This bottle is genius. It has an attached cup for your dog to drink from, and pressing the button recollects any water your dog didn't finish!
10-20 ft Leash:
I LOVE this 15 ft Biothane leash from Signature K9. It's super light & easy to clean. Give your dog some extra freedom on hikes!
These work brilliantly for changing how your dog feels about baths! "How to get your dog to like baths" article on my blog!
If your dog dislikes baths, the scent of their shampoo may be one of the reasons! Always choose unscented for your dog!
Snuffle mats are a fantastic source of enrichment for dogs! I often give Neirah her breakfast in her mat.
Struggling with crate training? Snuggle Puppies work brilliantly for some dogs! The real-feel heartbeat can help them feel less alone. Crate article on blog!
Wish you could bring your dog places they can't quite walk to? Now you can! I personally bring this backpack when I hike with my dog! Use coupon code HappyHounds for 10% off!
If you're training your dog with force-free methods, you'll need either a clicker or a marker word! Clickers that have a wrist strap are most convenient.
My favorite for jogging! Carrying case is large enough for my phone, keys, and poop bags!
This brush is AMAZING. My dog has a thick undercoat, and this reaches everything.
Practicing recall? You'll need a long, light leash! I love this 33 ft one. It's so light you barely notice it.
Like a cat toy.... but for dogs! Flirt poles are excellent for exercising high prey drive breeds.
My dog LOVES frisbee. I've tried a few brands, but the West Paw one in orange is by far her favourite!
I LOVE this treat bag. It has two seperate sections, so you can divide high/low value treats. Fits my phone, keys, and poop bags!
"Place" is a command every dog should know. Whether it's barking, jumping on guests, or being a pest at meals: place helps!
We need to care about the environment! Did you know that the plastic poop bags you use won't break down during your lifetime? That's insane! Use compostable bags to help the planet.
Muzzles can help the owner feel calm during training and prevent injuries. I recommend the Baskerville! It allows your dog to pant, eat, and drink!
tools, software, and programs that make running my business possible
I've tried many social sharing apps for my blog, and SocialSnap wins without contest! It's easy to use, customize, and it just works!
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Know what's easier than carrying two phones? Adding an extra number to your existing phone! I use Open Phone for an affordable phone number with lots of features! Get $20 off with this link.
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Email automation was one of the tasks I found most difficult. I tried a few companies like Mailchimp but hated them. Now I use Flodesk. They made everything easy and my emails look beautiful!
Get 50% off using the link below!
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I can't say enough good things about Tailwind. The company is genius.
I use them to autopost both my pinterest and instagram content. It allows me to do a month of work in just one afternoon! Imagine having that much time freed up?
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