Congratulations on your new puppy! The countdown has started to the day you get to bring your new bundle of fur home. Making sure you get all the necessary supplies can be overwhelming so here is a list of essentials to make the task a little less daunting.
- A Sturdy Yet Comfortable Collar and Leash
An adjustable collar is best at this age since your puppy will be growing quickly. You should be able to slip two fingers underneath the collar but not so loose that it can slip over your puppy’s head. You also want to choose a leash made out of a material that feels comfortable in your hands. Most trainers suggest a leash of no more than 6 feet while your puppy is learning to walk appropriately on a leash.
- Comfortable Training Harness in the Appropriate Size
Using a harness early on can help your puppy learn important walking and socialization skills. A puppy harness can help you have more control, since puppies are often prone to lunging and pulling. Using a harness can also help to protect a puppy’s neck and back from potential injury caused by a leash pulling on a collar.
- Food Bowl and Water Bowl
Non-slip bowls seem to be the best for minimizing spills. Many Veterinarians also recommend getting elevated bowls to make it more comfortable for your pup to eat and drink. Materials like stainless steel, ceramic or other stoneware are good choices since they are easy to clean, sanitize and most are dishwasher safe.
- Healthy Puppy Food
So much can go into choosing the right puppy food. Dog nutrition can be as complicated or even more complicated than human nutrition. Since every dog has unique needs, for some help in that area consult your Veterinarian. Whichever food you choose, be sure that you are feeding your puppy the correct amount. Puppies usually need to eat three times a day.
- Training Treats
Treats are great for training and learning through positive reinforcement. Most puppies are food motivated so this can be a good way to get them to learn certain commands fairly quickly. Do your best to choose high quality treats.
- ID Tags
Although you may intend for your dog to be indoor only, it is still extremely important to get them an ID tag. Your pup may run out the door spontaneously or get lost accidentally and ID tags help to get you reunited. Also, check your state laws as ID tags may be a legal requirement. Ensure that the ID tag has their name, your phone number and the city you live in.
- Poop Bags and Holder
There are many options out there. Choose one that works best for you and your pup.
- Soft Puppy Bed
Your puppy needs a comfortable bed. It is your choice whether you want to buy one big enough for them to grow into or buy several beds as they grow. Keep in mind to look out for wear and tear as puppies can be rough on their beds as well.
- Dog Crate and Playpen
Crates are useful training tools for puppies. It helps to house break puppies because they do not like to soil where they sleep. A crate can even become a safe haven for your pup. A place where they feel safe and secure. You should purchase a crate that your pup can grow into. Many come with a divider so you can slowly give them more space as they grow.
A playpen gives your pup more space to play, roam and explore. You can fill it with toys and give them the opportunity to have the added space while still keeping them safe and out of trouble.
- Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Although your puppies baby teeth will eventually fall out when their adult teeth begin to come in, it is important to get them used to brushing their teeth from a young age. Without regular brushing, plaque and tartar build up on the teeth and gums. This causes periodontal disease, one of the most common health problem in dogs.
- Grooming Brush and Comb
Brushing and combing your pups hair is essential for proper canine coat maintenance. Regular brushing eliminates tangles and matting, it helps keep your pups coat shiny and healthy and it can even be a bonding experience for you both. Until they get their adult coat, your puppy only needs gentle brushing. Use a soft-bristled brush and brush in the direction of their fur.
- Puppy Shampoo and Conditioner
You’ll want to choose a good quality puppy shampoo and conditioner. Not all dog coats are the same so you’ll want to choose one that is tailored to your pups coat type. Regular bathing removes dead hair and skin cells, reduces shedding, and helps keep your dog’s skin and coat free of dirt and allergens that can irritate and cause itching and infections. Similar to human skin, dog skin can become dry and irritated if not properly moisturized. So, after a good shampoo and rinse, you should gently lather your pup in a soothing, puppy-safe conditioner.
- Nail Clippers
Trimming your pups nails is something you want to start as early as possible. This will get them used to having their paws touched, the sound of the clippers and the feeling against their nails. Many owners choose to take their dog to a professional groomer to have their nails trimmed for fear of quicking them. If you do choose to clip your pups nails at home, be sure to choose a good quality clipper. Most dogs need to have their nails trimmed about once a month.
- Puppy Potty Pads
The decision to use potty pads varies with each dog owner. Some have the time to train their pup to only use the bathroom outside while others need the flexibility that potty pads offer. If you decide that potty pads are for you, they can be a great tool to help your pup avoid making messes in inconvenient places.
- Toys
There are tons and tons of options out there but when choosing toys for your pup keep in mind that you should get them a variety in different categories. Playing with toys is not only the highlight of your dogs day but it is also important to their development. Interactive toys like fetch balls and tug-of-war ropes help strengthen your bond with your pup, while chew toys teach positive habits and promote dog dental care. You’ll want to get a variety of teething chew toys, knotted rope toys, treat toys and enriching puzzles, engaging play toys as well as comforting plushy toys. These toys will provide hours of entertainment but will also provide lots of benefits your dog needs to live a healthy life.
- Toy Box or Basket
Something cute that just keeps your life a bit more organized.