Dog Accessories Every Owner Actually Needs

Pet shops and online stores are full of dog products. Some are essential, some are useful, and some are a waste of money. Here is a practical checklist from a trainer’s point of view, for dogs living in Kenyan homes.

The essentials

1. A well-fitted collar with an ID tag

Every dog should wear a flat collar with an ID tag showing your phone number. Dogs slip out of gates more often than owners expect, and a phone number on a tag is the fastest way home. You should be able to slide two fingers under the collar, no more.

2. A strong lead

A 1.5 to 2 metre lead made from nylon, biothane or leather is right for everyday walking. Choose a strong clip, especially for large breeds. Avoid retractable leads for big or reactive dogs; they teach pulling and can snap or cause injuries.

3. A harness (for some dogs)

A well-fitted harness is useful for small dogs, dogs with neck or breathing problems, and for some training. A front-clip harness can help with pulling while you train loose-lead walking. Fit matters: it should not rub behind the front legs.

4. Food and water bowls

Stainless steel bowls are durable, easy to clean and do not hold odours. Keep a water bowl in the shade and refill it daily. For large breeds that gulp food, a slow-feeder bowl helps.

5. A bed or raised cot

Dogs sleeping on cold concrete or damp ground can develop sore joints and skin problems. A raised cot keeps outdoor dogs off the ground, and it is easy to clean. Inside, a washable bed works well.

6. A crate or safe space

A correctly sized crate, introduced positively, gives puppies a safe den, helps with toilet training and makes travel and vet trips easier. It should never be used as punishment or for long periods.

7. Grooming basics

A brush for your dog’s coat type, dog shampoo, nail clippers and a tick tool. See our home grooming guide.

8. Tick, flea and worm prevention

Not a gadget, but essential in Kenya. Ask your vet which products and schedule suit your dog.

Useful extras

• Chew toys (rubber toys, natural chews of the right size) to save your shoes and furniture
• Food-dispensing toys to slow eating and keep the mind busy
• A long line (5 to 10 metres) for practising recall safely
• A treat pouch for training
• A reflective collar or light for early-morning and evening walks
• A properly fitted muzzle for vet visits or dogs in behaviour training, introduced gradually and positively

What to avoid

• Toys small enough to swallow. Match toy size to your dog’s mouth.
• Cooked bones and brittle chews that splinter.
• Thin, cheap clips on leads for big dogs.
• Choke chains or prong collars used without guidance. Used incorrectly, they can injure a dog and make some behaviour problems worse. If your dog pulls or lunges, get help with training first.
• Tight collars on growing puppies. Check the fit every week.

Training tools need training

Equipment helps, but it does not replace training. A harness will not teach your dog to walk nicely, and a big kennel will not make a dog a good guard. If you want help choosing the right equipment for your dog and learning how to use it, ask us during obedience training or puppy training.

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This guide is general information from G.A.P on Everything Dogs, not veterinary advice. If your dog is unwell, injured or has eaten something toxic, contact a vet straight away.