30 weird things that make your dog behave so much better with almost no effort

Yes, training can be surprisingly speedy.

30 weird things that make your dog behave so much better with almost no effort
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Sometimes, the weirdest solutions are the most effective ones, and that definitely applies when it comes to training your dog. So if your pup is a little naughty, or if you’re simply trying to train the goodest boy possible — this is the list. I’ve scoured through Amazon to find a ton of weird things that can make your dog behave so much better, and every single one of them requires basically zero effort from you.

01A no-pull harness that’s comfy for you & your pup

Not only does this harness feature reflective patches to help keep your dog visible when out at night, but it also has a bungee clip to absorb shock if your dog starts to pull. You also have the choice of two rings when clipping on a leash: a traditional one in the back, as well as one in the front, to prevent any pulling behaviors.

02A plush, donut-shaped bed that can help ease anxiety

Anxious pups will seriously appreciate this machine-washable dog bed because its raised edges and donut shape make it feel like they’re relaxing in a soft, warm hug. The clever shape also encourages your dog to curl up and burrow inside, while the faux fur material adds to the coziness. This seriously soothing bed also comes in multiple colors.

03A pheromone diffuser that can help alleviate separation anxiety

If your dog experiences anxiety whenever you leave home, simply plug in this low-effort calming diffuser. It releases pheromones into the air that may help calm anxious pups so that they’re less likely to chew, bark, or have accidents while you’re away or even during storms. Plus, the scent will soothe your pup for 30 days before you need a refill. One reviewer even wrote, “This worked within 8 hours. I plugged it in, went to work. Came home and hardly any barking whatsoever. His threshold for what will trigger him is much wider now and he does not respond to every single noise on the street.”

04A snack-hiding puzzle toy to occupy your pup’s mind (& teeth)

Keep your pup busy with this puzzle toy that has two different compartments you can fill with treats. Your dog will also keep busy removing or sliding around these compartments to reveal even more snacks underneath. And if your pup isn’t the brightest bulb? Not a problem, as you have the choice of three varying difficulties.

05The magnetic treat pouch so you always have rewards on-hand

Grab this easy-to-carry waistband pouch, and you’ll always be prepared to encourage good behavior with treats. Use the adjustable strap for a comfy fit around your waist so that a treat is always within reach. It also has a magnetic closure to quickly grab treats within just a few seconds so that your dog connects the treat to their good behavior.

06This interactive chase toy that burns off energy

The colorful pull rope at the end of this flirt pole will entice your pup to chase it around and burn off loads of energy. Its easy-to-use design can also help teach them to “drop” the rope once they’ve caught it. It’s made from tough stainless steel, so there’s no need to worry about it breaking should your pup pull a little too hard.

07This plush corduroy toy that’s designed to handle heavy chewers

If your dog chews through the average plush toy within a matter of hours, this ultra-durable corduroy moose may be what they need. It’s designed to handle heavy chewers, as the knotted limbs make it way harder to rip open — and it even features multiple squeakers on the inside so that it’s fun to play with regardless of where they’re chewing.

08A dog leash that helps you control pulling

Grab this super strong leash if your pup has a habit of pulling when you’re out on walks. In addition to the standard hand loop at the end of the leash, it features a handle in the middle of the strap as well. This shortened loop helps you hold your dog close and prevent them from pulling. The leash comes in 14 colors and several lengths.

09A clever set of puzzle balls with entertaining treat dispensers

Keep more than one type of puzzle toy on hand (and prevent boredom) with this set of travel-friendly puzzle balls. Both designs slowly dispense treats as they roll across the floor, enticing your dog to chase them around in order to get extra snacks. And since they’re made from tough rubber, there’s no need to worry about your dog shredding them into bits.

10An adjustable seatbelt attachment your dog can’t tangle up

This clever dog seatbelt could help keep your dog safe (and keep them in the seat they’re supposed to be in). Its rotating clasp prevents them from getting tangled up if they decide to roam around the backseat, while the adjustable length works with any dog. Plus, the nylon material is strong enough to withstand any chewing on road trips.

11A spray that can prevent your pup from peeing in the same spot

If your dog tends to pee in the same spot — even after you’ve cleaned it — add this spray to your potty training routine to discourage them from peeing in the same spot. It’s safe to spritz on floors, furniture, rugs, planters, and more, regardless of whether you need this potty training formula inside or outside.

12These easy-to-use dog chews that can help soothe anxiety

Packed with calming melatonin and chamomile, these relaxing chews may help ease your dog’s anxiety during fireworks, thunderstorms, or even when you leave home to run some errands. They have a smoked bacon flavor that’s sure to be a hit with even the pickiest pups — and many reviewers raved about how well they work. “I can definitely tell a difference in our dog,” wrote one satisfied shopper. “She used to pace and want to lick us constantly[...]. Now she can just lay down and relax.”

13This bitter spray to help deter chewing all around the house

Plants, furniture, baseboards — this spray can help deter your dog from chewing whatever they get into. Its bitter flavor makes their preferred places to chew taste so incredibly unpleasant — they won’t be interested anymore (no matter what’s causing them to chew). It also won’t stain whatever you spritz it on around the house.

14An ultrasonic bark deterrent that has a built-in flashlight

This ultrasonic bark deterrent device is a great pick if your dog barks at the wind. Tap the button and this device will release an ultrasonic sound designed to encourage them to stop barking. It automatically shuts off after 10 seconds, so that your pup won’t be under prolonged stress. It also works as a flashlight and has a rechargeable battery.

“One of our dogs likes to yell at people. This has definitely helped curb that. It only took her three days to learn what it meant so now I just have to show it to her and she'll stop,” said one Amazon shopper.

15This cozy dog blanket with a waterproof inner lining

Even if you can’t quite get your dog to stay off that new sofa, it’s easy to convince them to prefer to lie on this dog blanket which has a waterproof inner lining. Your dog will love its cozy texture which features sherpa on one side and flannel fleece on the other. Choose from seven available sizes and 10 colors such as cream, light green, or gray, with the ability to toss it in the washing machine for easy cleaning.

16A short & sturdy leash for walking near busy roads

Whether you’re training your dog how to heel or live near a busy road, this short and easy-to-control leash is a smart pick. It lets you hold your dog close, keeping them safe from cars while also teaching them to stay near you, while the padded handle helps you keep a comfortable grip if your dog starts to pull. One reviewer even wrote, “I have a dog that takes off to chase cats and squirrels and this does not hurt my hands to hang on to the dog.”

17A stick-on slow-feeding mat that can help ease anxiety

This durable licking mat is one of the easiest ways to help soothe anxious pups. Just add your peanut butter or a treat to the textured silicone, and it will help keep their mind occupied. Four suction cups on the back make it easy to attach to shower walls, floors, or any non-porous surface, and it will stay wherever you stick it for hours.

18A bungee-style leash attachment to absorb shock from pulling

Similar to a stretchy bungee cord, this leash attachment helps absorb shock when your dog pulls (which could also prevent soreness in your arms). It comes in four sizes to suit nearly any dog breed — and, since it’s made from a combination of nylon and steel, it’s built to hold up to even strong pulling.

19A dog doorbell to easily communicate about potty time

This dog doorbell is a super low-effort way to improve communication when it comes to potty breaks. Simply hang it on your door handle (zero tools required), and your pup can shake the bells when it’s time to go outside. It’s adjustable to fit your door, and you might even save your door from scratch marks.

20This dog bowl set that prevents mealtime messes

Enjoy future mealtimes that don’t involve you having to spend extra time cleaning up after your furbaby. This well-designed dog bowl set includes two stainless steel bowls set within a silicone mat which features raised edges to catch all falling food or water splashes. Choose from four available sizes with every part being conveniently dishwasher-friendly.

21A retractable dog leash that gives you flexibility

Experience the convenience of opting for a short or long lead (and everything in between) with this retractable dog leash. It comes in small, medium, or large to accommodate the size of your dog and features a button on the handle to allow free reign, stop at a certain length, and trigger a lock or unlock function. Reflective strips line the lead for extra safety and an ergonomic handle keeps your grip comfortable.

22A seat cover for pets who ride shotgun

If your furry best friend likes to ride up front with you, this front seat dog cover will save your car from the poor mud-rolling and fur-dirtying decisions they make at the park. It covers the front seat, hooks to the headrest to stay secure, and is completely waterproof. It comes in six colors and is easy to wipe or vacuum clean. “Fantastic. Absolutely love it,” said one reviewer. “Bought for my Charger since my puppy likes to sit up front and ride shotgun.”

23No-stuffing squeaky toys for mess-free playtime

If you’re afraid your dog will shred whatever toy you buy in no time at all, this set of stuffing-free squeaky toys might be a better choice. They have a crinkly shell and zero stuffing inside, so if your dog does happen to destroy them, there’s no need to worry about them swallowing any filling or scattering it around.

24This indestructible ball for a seriously long-lasting treat

If you have a dog that can destroy a toy before you can even throw out the packaging, you need a better toy. This tough chew toy is made of a strong proprietary rubber that’s designed to be puncture and tear resistant to stand up to even the most aggressive chewers. And, it’s slightly larger than a standard tennis ball, making it a perfect size for bigger breeds.

25A set of no stuffing toys so your dog can’t create a mess

If you’ve ever returned home to find toy stuffing littered around your house, these no-stuffing crinkle toys are a great pick. They’re soft but durable so they can hold up to a lot of chewing. You can even stuff them with water bottles to create a more satisfying play experience for your pup. This is a set of five in two different lengths, each a different animal.

26This UV flashlight & odor spray combo to tackle the source of smells

This UV flashlight and odor eliminator spray set can help you find gross-smelling pet accidents that have dried up, making them invisible to the naked eye. Once you’ve found the source of that unwanted smell, simply give it a few spritzes with the refreshing orange-scented odor eliminator spray to give it a quick clean.

27These washable pee pads that are incredibly versatile

Whether you’re crate training or potty training, these pee pads can serve multiple purposes. Available in a pack of two, they’re washable and reusable, and feature moisture-wicking fabric on top with a nonslip, waterproof lining underneath. Use them as a liner for your crate, a food mat, a travel pee pad, and even as a protective cover for upholstery. They’re available in seven different shapes and sizes.

28An insert that’ll get your pup to slow down when eating

For dogs who struggle to slow down when eating, this insert is genius. Simply pop it into their existing food bowl and it’ll create a challenge for them to scarf down their food. They’ll eat more slowly and get a little extra mental stimulation in the process. One Amazon reviewer says, “She now takes time to actually chew her food before going back for more, which is helping to make her feel full by the end of her meal.”

29Foam pet stairs that prevent jumping on the couch

Instead of your pup inevitably jumping on the couch and potentially hurting themselves (or damaging the furniture), help them step up gracefully with these pet stairs. Each step is cushioned with high-density foam to be gentle on your dog’s paws, and the cover is removable and machine washable, so it’s easy to keep clean. It comes in three, four, and five step options.

30A doggie door mat to protect your floors from muddy paws

Set your pup up for success with this door mat that helps keep your floors clean. The quick-drying chenille material is designed to absorb moisture and remove dirt from muddy paws before dogs enter the house. Afterwards, you can shake the mat off or toss it in the washing machine for easy cleaning. It comes in over 30 colors and dozens of sizes.