Quality Dog Training Equipment Can Be Expensive

Dogs are not only our favorite family pets – they are also big business. As pet owners, many of us are quite good at justifying all those purchases we make for our canine friends. No matter what it is, we can always label that purchase "dog training equipment."

The Real Cost of Dog Training Equipment

Training equipment ranges from inexpensive basics to specialized gear that can add up quickly. While some purchases are essential, others can stretch your budget without offering much real training value.

Retriever and Hunting Dog Gear

Trainers of hunting and retriever dogs use retrieval dummies which may be plastic or made of cloth and stuffed with filling. They come in different sizes but average about 10 inches long and 3 inches in diameter.

Canvas is the traditional material used, but floating plastic dummies are common for training water dogs. These are not expensive items, but they are often accompanied by other purchases such as launchers, which can cost from $100–$500 along with other related equipment.

Agility Training Equipment: Buy vs. DIY

Dog agility equipment costs add up quickly. To purchase retail equipment for a full training area that includes all competition obstacles, you will spend around $1,800.

If you are moderately handy, however, you can create the same training equipment yourself for about $300 – a major savings without sacrificing your dog’s experience.

Specialized Training Gear for Working Dogs

For some lessons, a trainer wants only the best. This is especially true when training attack or protection dogs.

• A secure leather muzzle may only cost about $40.

• A professional body protection suit, however, runs about $1,000.

• A lighter scratch suit costs around $300.

• A bite sleeve adds another $100.

The prices can climb quickly when it comes to advanced or specialized training.

Affordable Options for Household Pets

For those training canines as household pets, the prices are thankfully not as high. You will typically need:

• A collar (possibly a special training collar)

• A leash and training leads of various lengths

• A harness (depending on your dog’s size and needs)

• Training treats and a ball for fetching

These essentials will keep costs manageable while still providing effective training tools.

Avoiding Impulse Buys at Pet Stores

It is easy for pet owners to get carried away in a large pet supply store. Spend too much time browsing and you may find yourself buying designer food and water dishes, cute dog beds, stuffed toys, and even doggie raincoats.

These purchases may be fun – but they definitely don’t qualify as dog training equipment.

Dog Training Equipment Costs