Overview
When it comes to working with a service dog, having the right tools can make all the difference. Over time, I’ve refined the tools I use daily with Nala, my Dutch Shepherd service dog, ensuring she remains the best possible asset to me while minimizing any inconvenience. Here’s a look at the 14 essential tools that I always have on hand for my service dog Nala, split into everyday essentials and those that are always with me but used as needed. To learn more about Nala, check out Meet Nala: My Dutch Shepherd Service Dog & Best Friend.
Everyday Use Tools
- Ray Allen Tactical Bungee Leash w/ Frog Clip
- Ray Allen Belt Loop Quick Release
- Ray Allen Icon Air Harness
- Martin System Chameleon III E-Collar & Accessories
- Modern Icon 1.5″ Rigid Collar
- Doggie Bags on My Key Ring
As Needed (But ALWAYS with Me!)
- Ray Allen Braided Leather Leash
- Collapsible Water Bowl
- Musher’s Secret
- Herm Sprenger 2.25 mm Prong Collar
- Dominant Collar
- Freeze-Dried Beef Liver Treats
- 2 Foam Balls from Foam Dog Balls
- Muzzle
Where to Find These Tools
Everyday Use Tools
1. Ray Allen Tactical Bungee Leash w/ Frog Clip
The Ray Allen Tactical Bungee Leash is essential for our daily walks and training sessions. This hands-free leash operates like Nala is completely off-leash, providing her with the mobility she needs while keeping her close by my side. It’s particularly useful when my priorities aren’t solely focused on her, like when I’m with my wife and two daughters. The Frog Clip feature is fantastic because it allows for quick attachment and detachment from Nala’s flat collar, and when she’s not on the leash, I clip it back on itself so it’s always on my person but completely out of the way.
2. Ray Allen Belt Loop Quick Release
This tool integrates seamlessly into my daily routine, allowing me to connect the Ray Allen Tactical Bungee Leash to my belt for a hands-free option. The quick release connection is especially beneficial in places like Sam’s Club, where I can easily disconnect Nala from my body but still have her on a leash. It’s quick, easy, and ensures that I can still grab the leash if something unexpected happens.
3. Ray Allen Icon Air Harness
Living in the southern United States means dealing with extreme heat, which is why I chose the Ray Allen Icon Air Harness for Nala. This harness is made of mesh, allowing it to breathe better during the hot summer months. The Icon Air Harness is also load-rated to 2000 lbs, giving me peace of mind that it won’t fail if Nala ever needs to be lifted up or down. The dual handles are particularly useful for safely lowering Nala when she’s adventuring and climbs somewhere that would be dangerous to jump down from.
4. Martin System Chameleon III E-Collar & Accessories
The Chameleon III E-Collar is a vital tool for non-verbal communication with Nala. It’s like having a Bluetooth leash, allowing me to communicate with her even when she’s off-leash. Her working level is so low that I can barely feel it, making it an effective yet gentle tool. I use the transmitter and finger tick accessory, which enables me to stimulate the collar in a truly hands-free fashion. The transmitter stays in a holster on my belt, and the finger tick on my pointer finger acts like a ring.
5. Modern Icon 1.5″ Rigid Collar
The Modern Icon 1.5″ Rigid Collar is our everyday collar, known for its sturdiness and ability to maintain its form even when pulled on. This rigidity helps protect Nala’s neck, ensuring she remains comfortable and safe. We also had her name embroidered on the collar in neon orange, which pairs beautifully with her bright orange brindle coat.
6. Doggie Bags
Doggie bags are a must, and I ensure I always have them on hand by attaching a roll of 10 to my key ring. This way, wherever I go, I’m always prepared. I also stash extra rolls in various places like my backpack, office desk, and vehicles to make sure I’m never caught without them.
As Needed (But ALWAYS with Me!)
7. Ray Allen Braided Leather Leash
I opt for the Ray Allen Braided Leather Leash in situations where I need immediate control, like at the vet or in pet stores. The leather leash is stiffer than the bungee leash, providing better control and quicker response time. It’s also not attached to my body, which eliminates the need to fumble with the quick release.
8. Collapsible Water Bowl
Nala is good at self-regulating her fluid intake, but I always offer her the opportunity to drink, especially after an active play session or on particularly hot days. The collapsible water bowl is perfect for this because it takes up very little space in my backpack when not in use.
9. Musher’s Secret
Musher’s Secret is a lifesaver when it comes to maintaining Nala’s paw pads. I use it as needed, particularly after long walks or if she cuts her paw pads on rough terrain. During our June trip to Disney World, regular application of Musher’s Secret kept her paws healthy and free from burns or cracks, despite the 90+ degree temperatures.
10. Herm Sprenger 2.25 mm Prong Collar
Though I rarely use it anymore, the Herm Sprenger Prong Collar is a great training tool when used properly. It provides clear communication down the leash and is especially useful for training. I always recommend having a qualified dog trainer teach you how to use it correctly to ensure it’s both safe and effective.
11. Dominant Collar
The Dominant Collar is essentially a slip lead cut down to the size of a collar. I use it in chaotic scenarios, such as when exposed to loud or unruly dogs. It’s useful for quickly gaining control and saves space by connecting to any of my leashes.
12. Freeze-Dried Beef Liver Treats
These treats are a fantastic reward for Nala, especially when teaching new skills or behaviors. They’re all-natural, with the only ingredient being beef liver, and they last long without spoiling. I keep them stashed everywhere—from my backpack to my office desk and vehicles.
13. 2 Foam Balls from Foam Dog Balls
Nala is incredibly toy-driven, and these foam balls are essential for both training and play. They’re long-lasting, high-quality, and come with a textured handle that’s great for throwing, tug of war, and keeping my fingers safe. I always carry two—the second acting as a backup and as a reward to reinforce positive behavior.
14. Muzzle
While I almost never need to use a muzzle, it’s important to have one on hand for emergency situations, such as administering first aid or during a vet visit. To ensure Nala is comfortable wearing it, the muzzle was introduced through positive association and made it a neutral object for her. Now, she’s always calm and well-behaved when it’s necessary.
Reflections on Must Have Training Tools for my Service Dog
These tools collectively ensure that Nala remains safe and the best possible asset to me and my family. It took about six months to figure out what worked best for us, but now we have a solid routine that meets all our needs. One thing I’ve learned is that not every tool is for everyone—6’ leashes, for example, are too long for me. And I prefer the .5” width for ease of handling and space-saving.
If I were to offer advice to other service dog owners, it would be to do plenty of research and try out different options to find what works best for you. Have fun, be silly, and enjoy the journey with your service dog!
Join the Adventure!
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So, welcome! Let’s embark on this journey together—one paw, one rep, and one adventure at a time.
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Until Our Next Adventure,
“Fuel Your Passion, Embrace the Journey, and Stay Pawsitive!”
~Brannon & Nala Bear
