The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Dog Training Gear Based on Breed, Drive and Personality
Every dog is unique. From their genetics and instincts to their temperament and drive, no two dogs are exactly alike — and that’s why choosing the right training reward matters so much.
At Bo’s Dog Training Equipment, we know firsthand that bite pillows, tugs, balls, and other toys are not simply for fun. They are vital tools to shape behavior, develop grip and targeting, and build your dog’s confidence. But using the wrong toy for the wrong dog can lead to frustration, poor technique, or even injury.
This guide will help you make better decisions when choosing your dog’s gear, with recommendations backed by real-world trainers and insights from IGP, Schutzhund, and obedience handlers.
Why the Right Reward Matters in Dog Training
Dogs learn best when they are properly motivated. In protection and obedience sports, motivation comes not only from praise or food, but very often from play and drive-based rewards.
The wrong toy, however, can:
Lower motivation and reduce engagement
Cause bite issues or poor targeting
Break too easily, interrupting training flow
Frustrate soft dogs or overexcite powerful ones
Selecting gear that fits your dog’s specific type and temperament is key.
Understanding Dog Types: Soft vs Strong
Soft Dogs and Puppies
Soft dogs, like young puppies, Golden Retrievers, or softer Malinois, need gear that is:
Soft and easy to grip
Gentle enough to avoid frustration
Designed to help build confidence
Recommended rewards:
These toys are forgiving, fun, and ideal for dogs developing their drive.
Strong Dogs and High-Drive Workers
Powerful breeds like Rottweilers, German Shepherds, and Belgian Malinois require reinforced toys that:
Handle intense tugging and biting
Maintain shape after repeated use
Offer satisfying resistance
Recommended rewards:
These products offer durability and the necessary feedback for proper bite work.
Precision and Obedience Rewards
In advanced obedience, you need secondary rewards that are:
Easy to deliver quickly
Portable and easy to hide
Stimulating yet safe for fast bites
Recommended rewards:
These work perfectly for heeling, secondary obedience exercises, or reinforcing specific behaviors.
What’s Inside Matters Too: The Importance of Quality Filling
What your dog can’t see is just as important as what they can.
Many lower-cost dog toys are stuffed with:
Factory scraps
Mixed textile leftovers
Even sharp or dangerous debris like needles or hard plastic
At Bo’s, our products are:
Filled with clean, purpose-selected materials
Hand-stitched for consistency and safety
Tested for durability and longevity
Your dog’s mouth and safety deserve this level of attention — and that’s why we never cut corners.
Does Breed Always Dictate Reward Type?
While breed tendencies give you a great starting point, every dog is still an individual.
Not all Malinois are intense powerhouses. Some are sensitive and need soft introductions.
Not all Labradors are soft-mouthed. Some can shred poor-quality toys in seconds.
Not all German Shepherds bite with power. Some require drive building through exciting rewards.
Always observe your dog, test multiple types of gear, and adjust as they grow and advance in training.
How Bo’s Makes Reward Selection Easy
With dozens of products across categories, it’s easy to find exactly what your dog needs.
From:
Suede Balls → Great for drivey adult dogs
Plush Pucks → Perfect for soft puppies
Bite Pillows → Best for developing full grips
Leather Popper Tugs → Ideal for maintaining drive and excitement
We cover every stage, every dog, and every training scenario.
Our team of trainers is always available to help you make the right choice too. Contact us anytime to get personal advice based on your dog’s breed, age, and experience.
Final Thoughts: Match The Gear to Your Dog
In professional dog training, no toy is one-size-fits-all.
Selecting the right reward ensures:
Better motivation and engagement
Safer, more productive training sessions
Clear communication and less frustration
By investing in quality, breed-appropriate gear, you help your dog succeed — and make training more enjoyable for both of you.
Need help selecting?
