Choosing the Right K9 Gear with Ray Allen K9

Host Jeff Meyer talks with Matt Wilson, Creative Director and lead product designer at Ray Allen Manufacturing, in an in-depth episode about choosing and fitting K9 equipment. Key topics covered include bite suits (differences between heavy duty, kimono, police-package "marshmallow" suits and semi-competition suits), construction details that protect dogs and decoys (layering, thread break points, mobility), and a practical recommendation for departments to own both a durable pass-around suit and a thinner comp suit for advanced work. The conversation addresses bite sleeves and training purpose: hard sleeves for teaching catch technique and safety, a new soft sleeve with a bicep wedge to bridge the gap between padded suits and bare arms, and when sleeves may or may not be appropriate depending on desired drive and control. Jeff and Matt also discuss muzzle selection and fitting—features like a metal front plate with angled flares, proper nose-to-tip distance, and allowing the dog to pant and feel neutral while maintaining safety. Thanks to this shows sponsors:     AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________ KATS K9 Record Keeping  www.katsplatinum.com ______________________________________________________________________________           Online Class Click Here      k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/