Training a service dog often requires unique tools and gadgets—not just for task training but also to accommodate the handler’s disability. Below are some of my favorite tools and gadgets that help both the dog and handler succeed in training.
- Touch Lights
Battery-operated touch lights that turn on with a single press are perfect for training tasks where the dog needs to activate a light. These are useful for people with disabilities as well, they can be placed at dog-nose height in rooms, stairways and hallways. Be careful when selecting one, as some lights require multiple presses in order to turn on which can make the training process much more difficult. - Light Switch Extenders
Light switch extenders are typically designed for children but can be helpful for service dog training too. By connecting a couple together (duct tape works well for this), you can adjust them to dog-nose height, allowing the dog to turn on or off light switches without jumping on the wall. The ones that are moon shaped are my favorite as the shape lends itself well to a nose nudge to move the switch. - Battery-Operated Light Switches
These switches are great for teaching dogs to turn lights on and off. They are available in toggle and lever styles, and can be positioned on a wall at a low height first then moved up to help transfer the skill. Training tip: remove the batteries during training to prevent the light from turning on right in front of the dog’s face, they can be surprisingly bright! - Hands-Free Leash
Hands-free leashes can be a good fit for many service dog handlers, but they are not the appropriate for all teams and can be unsafe for handlers who may be pulled off balance. That said, they are popular among service dog handlers and allow for flexibility. When selecting a hands-free leash, look for one where the dog can stand and lie down when it is used by the handler. Also, examine the clasp style, some handlers have difficulties with small items like clasps. There are a variety of magnetic latches available that may be useful. - Clickers with Raised Buttons
Clickers with raised buttons and a softer, quieter sound can be a better choice for use in public places, where a loud click might be disruptive. I prefer those with wristbands, so the clicker is always handy, but many service dog trainers also like the ring-style clickers, which fit on a finger for easy access. - Foam Tubing
Foam tubing is designed for use by people who have difficulty holding items like pens and utensils. However, it can also be used to wrap around training tools to make them more comfortable for the dog to hold. It’s a simple and inexpensive way to facilitate the training and help the dog easily grip various items. - Target Sticks
Retractable target sticks are excellent for on-the-go training. They’re compact, easy to carry, and can be great for training behaviors that involve having the dog move out away from the handler to touch something, like pushing accessible door buttons. - Treat Pouches
I like having a variety of treat pouches, including those with magnetic closures and easy to wash silicone-style ones. It’s important that these pouches have large openings, so they’re easy for people who have difficulty using their hands to open. - Fleece Tethers
Fleece tethers are a comfortable material for dogs to grab and pull, making them ideal for tasks like opening doors, cabinets or refrigerators. They can be made with strips of fleece or purchased on platforms like Etsy. - Small Folding Stool
A small folding stool is perfect as a portable platform. It can be used to train the dog positioning around adaptive equipment and is compact enough to take with you when practicing in public places. - Silicone Remote Control Cases and Lanyards
Protect remote controls with silicone cases to prevent damage from accidental drops in training. The lanyard can be wrapped (with foam tubing or another material) to make it thicker and easier for the dog to pick up and carry. - Cell Phone Clear Bags with Lanyards
Cell phone bags with lanyards make it easier for dogs to pick up a phone without touching the screen directly. As with the remote control lanyard, wrapping the lanyard or switching it out with one made of a thicker material may be helpful for some teams.
These tools can be found at various online retailers, pet supply stores, hardware stores, big box stores and specialty service dog equipment suppliers. Popular online platforms like Chewy and Etsy often carry a wide variety of these items.