Training tools don’t train your spaniel — you do. But the right equipment can make training clearer, safer, and easier to practise consistently. The wrong set-up can create confusion, encourage pulling, or make real-world training harder than it needs to be.
This hub explains the most useful training tools for spaniels, what each one is for, how to choose the right version, and how to use it in a way that supports calm, reliable training.
Start with the principle: tools support training, not control
A good tool does one of three things:
- Improves safety (long line for recall practice, travel restraint)
- Improves communication (whistle consistency, clear rewards)
- Improves practice quality (treat pouch, dummy for structured games)
If you’re using a tool mainly to “make the dog behave” without training, it will usually fail long-term.
Key guides in this section
Leads and walking set-ups (your day-to-day essentials)
- Best lead for a Cocker Spaniel puppy
- How to stop a Cocker Spaniel pulling on the lead
- How to train a Springer Spaniel to walk on the lead
- When training a dog, what does “heel” mean?
Whistles (using them properly for training)
Crates and indoor kennels (settling, routine, and management)
- Crate training a puppy: six practical tips
- The benefits of using a dog crate for your Cocker Spaniel
- Cocker Spaniel crate guidance
- Does putting a blanket over a dog crate help?
- Should you kennel your dog in your room?
- What is an indoor dog kennel for?
- Best luxury indoor dog kennel
Car travel and safety (crates, securing, and best practice)
- Should I crate my dog in the car?
- Should dogs be in a crate in the car?
- What are the safest dog crates for car travel?
- How to secure your dog crate in your car
- Best travel crate for a working English Cocker Spaniel
- Ruff Land Kennel dog crate guide
Training toys and play rewards (useful for spaniels)
- Interactive dog toys to keep your dog busy
- Do Cocker Spaniels like to play fetch?
- Fetch: train your dog with fun and games
- Is it OK to play tug of war with a puppy?
Related training hubs
- Training Foundations
- Puppy Training
- Loose Lead Walking
- Recall & Whistle Training
- Off-Lead Reliability
- Gundog Training Foundations
The essential training tools for spaniels
1) Whistle (for recall and distance cues)
A whistle gives consistent tone and carries in wind and distance — which is why it’s so useful for spaniels.
Best used for:
- recall
- attention reset
- distance control (in gundog-style work)
Pair with:
- high value rewards
- short practice sessions
- a clear recall plan
2) Lead and long line (for safe practice)
A standard lead is for everyday walks. A long line is for training freedom safely.
Best used for:
- recall practice before going off lead
- preventing rehearsing “run off and ignore”
- calm lead skills (distance without risk)
Tip: long lines are a training tool, not a permanent lifestyle. The goal is to fade dependence as reliability grows.
3) Harness or collar (your connection point)
The “best” option depends on your dog and your training plan:
- A front-clip harness can reduce pulling while you teach loose lead walking
- A flat collar is fine for many dogs with good lead manners
- A Y-shaped harness is often more comfortable for movement (fit matters)
Whatever you choose, make sure:
- it fits properly
- it doesn’t restrict shoulder movement
- it doesn’t become a substitute for training
4) Treat pouch and rewards system
Spaniels respond brilliantly to reinforcement — but only if you can reward quickly and consistently.
A simple set-up:
- treat pouch for speed
- small, soft treats for rapid repetition
- occasional “jackpot” reward when your dog nails a hard moment
5) Crate / indoor kennel (for management and calm routines)
Crates are not required, but they can help with:
- house training
- preventing bad habits
- teaching a calm settle routine
- travel safety when used appropriately
Used well, they support welfare and routines.
6) Toys for training (tug, retrieve, and engagement)
Toys can be excellent rewards for spaniels — particularly those with high drive.
Best used for:
- engagement games
- reward for recalls (if done properly)
- structured tug with rules (start/stop cues)
7) Gundog dummies (channel the spaniel brain)
Even pet spaniels often love gundog-style games. Dummies help you train:
- retrieve patterns
- delivery habits
- steadiness and impulse control
- controlled hunting outlets
How to choose the right tool (simple checklist)
Before buying anything, ask:
- What behaviour am I trying to build?
- Do I need this for safety or skill-building?
- Will it help my dog succeed in training?
- Can I use it consistently and correctly?
A smaller number of well-used tools beats a cupboard full of gadgets.
Common mistakes with training equipment
Avoid these and you’ll save months of frustration:
- Using a tool as a shortcut instead of training
- Switching equipment constantly (no consistent feedback for your dog)
- Using a long line without learning safe handling
- Choosing equipment that doesn’t fit properly
- Buying “strong dog” leads that encourage tension and pulling
Where to go next
Pick the training hub that matches what you’re working on:
- Recall and whistle:
/spaniel-training/recall/ - Loose lead walking:
/spaniel-training/lead-walking/ - Off-lead reliability:
/spaniel-training/off-lead/ - Puppy training:
/spaniel-training/puppy-training/ - Gundog foundations:
/spaniel-training/gundog-training/