The Dog Trainer School (TDTS) has introduced ‘The Dog Trainer School Recommended Product,’ a new, independent recognition mark designed to help pet owners identify products that have been tested to professional standards in practical, real-world, and training settings.
The programme offers a valuable opportunity for Pet Industry Federation (PIF) member brands to showcase that their commitment to quality and innovation has been rigorously vetted by working professionals within the industry.
The TDTS Recommended status is awarded following a transparent, criteria-based evaluation led by TDTS Director Helen Wainwright, a former product tester for the Good Housekeeping Institute. This methodology brings evidence-led assurance to the pet sector.
- Evaluations are carried out by a network of over 300 working dog trainers and pet professionals across the UK. Products are assessed against industry-relevant criteria, including:
- Practical usability and ease of cleaning.
- Alignment with dog welfare standards.
- Clarity of instructions.
- Durability and value for money.
- A crucial “would you recommend to clients?” threshold.
In the inaugural round of testing, several products already available in retail stores, including those from PIF member brands, successfully achieved the TDTS Recommended status. This achievement demonstrates the high-quality standards maintained by members of the Federation.
Among the first products to be recognised are:
Tug-E-Nuff – Fauxtastic Powerball Bungee: Praised for its high-engagement design, cushioned bungee, durable faux-fur, and secure handler grip—offering practical benefits that dogs and their owners appreciate.
No Fuss Fill – SkooGo® Gloves: Recognised for reliable wet-weather grip for leads/long lines, combined with fingerless dexterity and a practical pocket.
My Anxious Dog – Squeezy Reward & Affiliate Pack: Noted for clean, one-hand reinforcement and consistent owner communications using the #DogsInYellow initiative.
DotDotPet – Eco Biodegradable Towels & Conditioning Dog Shampoo: Both products were highlighted for making pet care more convenient, with the towels offering strong absorbency in a van-friendly format, and the shampoo featuring easy one-hand dispensing and quick lather/rinse.
“Our aim is to give dog owners independent, practitioner-led assurance,” said Helen Wainwright, Co-Founder of TDTS. “When a product is Dog Trainer School Recommended, it means multiple working trainers have used it under typical conditions—rain, mud and busy classes and would genuinely recommend it to owners.”
Lee Hobbs, Co-Founder of TDTS and Dog Trainer, added: “The Dog Trainer School Recommended logo helps brands stand out in a crowded market. By intentionally starting with smaller, independent brands, we can give them a lift, spotlighting welfare-aligned products that genuinely work in real-world training.”
PIF member brands are encouraged to submit their products for the upcoming testing window to benefit from this independent validation. Successful products may display the badge for 12 months, after which a reassessment is conducted to ensure continued quality.
You can find out more about the current Dog Trainer School Recommended Products by visiting the TDTS website
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Dan Everett