Many families adopt dogs this time of year because the kids are home from school, sports and extracurricular activities are often out for the summer, and professionals like to take time off before fall. If you’re bringing home a new puppy, we recommend you consider picking up these five things you need for your new puppy.
Collar with ID Tags
One of the most important things you can do for your new pup is to keep them safe. For this reason, we encourage you to purchase a properly-fitted collar and proper ID tags as soon as you get your pup. You can also get this before you bring the pup home if you know you’ll be picking them up. Don’t even wait until you have a name picked out; simply have an ID tag made with your last name and phone number on it. Once you have established your new addition’s name, you can always update their tag as needed.
Harness & Leash
We believe that most dogs need harnesses, especially young dogs. Unfortunately, navigating all the harness options on the market can be a challenge. For this reason, we encourage you to check out Non-stop Dogwear’s Line Harness, which is ergonomically designed and adjustable to keep the dog’s bone structure safe while providing secure restraint. Because dog bones take time to fully fuze, it’s important to consider how the design of your harness impacts their movement.
For your leash, we always recommend a standard six-foot leash, which will help you keep your puppy close as they learn to walk on a leash. Please stay away from retractable leashes as they don’t teach your dog leash manners and can put them in danger if given too much leeway.
Dog Food & Bowls
There is so much controversy about dog food these days that we can’t make any specific dog food recommendations. That said, we highly recommend you visit one of our local pet supply stores to discuss your puppy’s breed, size, age, and what might be best for them at this stage in their life.
We also recommend you consider dog bowl alternatives like lick mats and puzzle feeders when purchasing your dog’s food. You’ll, of course, need a water bowl or two, but you may find that the market is chock full of enrichment-based feeding options that dogs love.
Dog Crate
Crate training is one of the best things that a new pet parent can do for their pup. Dogs enjoy having their own space but crate training is about more than den life. Crate training allows puppies and dogs to develop a skill they can use for the rest of their lives. When moving, traveling, visiting certain hotels, staying overnight at the vet, etc., a crate-trained dog will be more at ease when restrained.
Dog crates come in varying sizes and various materials. Consider your budget and keep in mind that a good crate should last the dog’s entire life and then some, therefore, investing in a high-quality crate is a good idea.
Dog Beds
Puppies will want to be close by and may end up sleeping on your bed if you allow it. But, keep in mind that puppies can’t hold their bladder all night therefore letting a very young puppy sleep in your bed may be an accident waiting to happen. Instead, consider buying at least a couple of dog beds to have in key areas of the house including your bedroom. Dogs like to sleep close to other dogs and/or their humans therefore keep that in mind when setting up your dog’s new bed.
Dog beds also come in varying sizes and materials. We always recommend you purchase the best dog beds you can afford. For dogs that are still in a chewing phase, choose thicker materials. And, opt for a bed that has a cover that can be unzipped and washed, especially for puppies and senior dogs.
