Top Products To Keep Your Dog Happy

The Best Products to Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy, According to a Dog Trainer

Add these must-haves items to your collection.

Updated on 10/24/25

Dogs don’t need much to be happy—a cozy place to sleep, humans who constantly shower them with love and affection, high-quality dog food, and, of course, lots of treats and toys. But beyond these bare necessities, dogs also thrive when they get plenty of physical exercise, mental stimulation, and training. And, as pet parents, it can be helpful to have equipment on hand to help meet these needs.

“Having the right tools and products at home is important for dog parents because they play a significant role in ensuring the well-being of both them and their dogs,” says Em Muench, a professional trainer who runs Barkology in Des Moines, Iowa. “Being prepared, as well as meeting your dog's physical, mental, and emotional needs, is all part of responsible dog ownership.”

Since she works with dogs all day every day, we asked Muench to share a few of her all-time favorite products for dogs. Here are some of the toys, training tools, and other gadgets she can’t live without.

The Best Products to Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy

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Treat Pouch

The best way to train your pup is to reward them for good behaviors using positive reinforcement techniques. For most dogs, this means giving them a tasty morsel when they sit, stay, or lie down. A treat pouch with a belt to wear around your waist is a convenient way to keep your pup’s favorite snack nearby while also keeping your hands free.
02 of 08

Clicker

Make positive reinforcement training even more effective by investing in a clicker. These small, handheld devices make a soft “click” sound when you squeeze them, and they’re useful for marking the exact behavior you’re rewarding. Muench recommends using a clicker and a treat pouch together—if you do, you’ll help your pup master a wide variety of tricks in no time.
03 of 08

Longline Leash

Dogs love to romp, roam, sniff, and explore, which can sometimes be difficult on a leash. But if you let them off the leash, they might approach strangers or other dogs, dart into the road, or run away. A longline is the perfect compromise: These ultra-long leashes give your pup some much-needed freedom while at the same time ensuring her safety. Longlines are also handy for recall training.
04 of 08

Flirt Pole

Even couch potatoes benefit from regular exercise and mental stimulation. In addition to walks or backyard fetch sessions, Muench recommends tempting your dog with a flirt pole. Similar to a cat teaser wand, flirt poles engage your dog’s instincts to chase and catch “prey.” And since they’re interactive, flirt pole play sessions are also a great way to bond with your dog.

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05 of 08

Treat-Dispensing Toys

If your pup is super food-motivated and tends to gobble up their dinner in record time, consider adding a treat-dispensing toy to your arsenal. Fill the toy with kibble or treats, then let your dog figure out how to shake them loose. These types of toys are not only useful for slowing down fast eaters but can also challenge and entertain your dog, providing much-needed mental stimulation. You’ll find lots of different options out there as far as treat-dispensing toys go. Try a couple to see what your pup likes playing with the most.
06 of 08

Food Puzzles

Similarly to treat dispensers, food puzzles are a great way to extend mealtime and give your dog’s brain a workout. Food puzzles come in a variety of configurations, but most require your dog to flip over or slide open compartments to reveal hidden morsels. Some even have multiple levels of difficulty, so your pup will never get bored no matter how many times they “solve” the puzzle.
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Snuffle Mats

Dogs have a keen sense of smell. Help your dog put his nose to the test with a snuffle mat, an interactive toy that encourages them to hunt for hidden treats or kibble amid folds of fabric. Made of soft, ruffly materials, these mats engage your dog’s natural foraging instincts and provide mental stimulation.
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Lick Mats

Licking is a soothing, relaxing behavior that helps alleviate stress and anxiety. With a lick mat, you can slather on some peanut butter, plain yogurt, pumpkin puree, or wet food, then let your pup lick to his heart’s content. These are also great for rainy, snowy days when you need to wait a few hours for the weather to clear up before heading out on a walk.

Set Yourself Up for Success

Whether you’re an experienced pet parent refreshing your stash or a first-timer stocking up before the arrival of your new four-legged friend, these trainer-recommended products can help set you and your pup up for success. When it comes to training, exercise, mental stimulation, and playtime, having the right tools and equipment makes all the difference.

FAQ

What is the benefit of using a treat pouch and clicker together during training?

Combining a treat pouch and a clicker can maximize the effectiveness of positive reinforcement by easily marking and rewarding desired behaviors.
Can longline leashes be used for everyday walks?

Longline leashes are primarily beneficial for specific training activities and situations where giving your dog more freedom under supervision is necessary. For regular walks, a standard leash may be more manageable.
How do treat-dispensing toys help with fast eaters?

Treat-dispensing toys slow down eating by requiring the dog to engage with the toy to release food, thereby promoting healthier eating habits.