So you’ve decided to get a dog. A very exciting time for the whole family, it will be filled with unforgettable memories. However, there are certain things that you’ll need to purchase ahead of your pup’s arrival. Ensuring that you’re prepared is the key to success when getting a dog – so it’s a good idea to get everything sooner rather than later.
If you’re unsure as to what to purchase, however, the process or preparation can be very daunting. To help ease this, here is a list of the top 15 essentials that you need to purchase for your pooch:
A Comfortable Dog Bed
No matter what their age or breed, it’s good to find a nice bed for your dog. A place that they will go to relax throughout the day, it needs to be durable and comfortable for them. However, as these range in style and price, it’s worth comparing and contrasting different brands before you buy.
Also, keep in mind that throughout the years you might have to replace the bed – as your pup will undoubtedly playfully pull it apart and wear it out.
A Collar and Leash
This is an essential that you’ll need in order to take your pup out on a walk. As with most things on this list, there are so many different brands to choose from.
So it’s beneficial to read reviews on the best collars and leashes and see which one is best for the type of dog/age of dog that you’re planning on getting.
A long Leash
For when your pup is in the yard or out in a park, it’s worth purchasing a long line. This will allow them to move freely across the grass without feeling too restrained.
It will, however, ensure that they are still attached so that they can’t get too far! If you’re in a new neighborhood or want to explore a new area, it’s always a good idea to bring your pup with you. If you need tips for walking your dog in a new environment, you can learn more from a local vet or dog expert.
There are various sizes of long lines available to choose from. Accompanied by a ground spike, it’s a great accessory to have that your pup will love.
Puppy Pads
No matter if you’re getting a puppy or an older dog, puppy pads can work wonders. As a way of teaching your pup toilet training, they eventually will naturally want to go outside to the toilet. When you use the best puppy training pads, it makes potty training so much easier.
To use these effectively, slowly move them towards the door and put them outside in the yard. When your pup only goes outside on them, try removing them.
Food and Water Bowls
Purchasing your dog’s food and water bowls should be a top priority. These don’t have to be fancy, simply functional. So don’t worry about breaking the bank with the best ones available on the market. Over time, you can replace these. But for now, simple and functional budget-friendly food and water bowls will do the trick.
Toys
This is perhaps the most fun thing to purchase for your dog – a bunch of toys that they will love to play with! Whether you opt for furry toys, squeaky toys or other types, they will love to throw them around and tear them apart. Over time, you’ll inevitably have to purchase more – but seeing the joy on their little face when you give it to them will be worth the extra dollars.
Food and Treats
When looking for food for your pup, make sure that you find high-quality and nutritious food that’s designed for their age. There are different types of food available for puppies, older dogs and adults so it’s a good idea to check this before you purchase it.
Also, remember that all dog’s tastes are different, so the first food you purchase might not go down as a hit, and you might need to try several before you find the right one for them.
In terms of treats, there are also lots available, from soft chews to harder ones that are designed to clean your puppy’s teeth. When looking at treats similar to the food, pay attention to the type of dog they are recommended for.
The food that your dog eats will also change as they grow up. When you feel like they should no longer be eating puppy food, you should take a look into which healthy adult dog food options you have. It’s not something you’ll need to have ready for when you bring them home for the first time, but it’s good to be prepared.
Exercise Pen and Stair Gates
If you’re getting a puppy, an exercise pen will be a great addition to your home. Giving them a space to roam around in, while ensuring that they stay out of trouble when you aren’t looking will be well worth the investment.
As well as exercise pens, you might want to invest in stair gates for your home. These are ideal no matter what the age of your dog when you want to train them to stay downstairs in your house. However, with stair gates, you must check the height and width of these because sneaky bigger dogs are sometimes able to get over them!
Others might also opt to purchase a crate if they are looking to crate train their dog and give them their only special area to relax in. Although some might believe that crates are cruel, they can prove to be an invaluable way of training your dog and giving it a space that they feel comfortable in alongside their bed.
Poop Bags
You probably knew that this one was coming – but it’s still worth mentioning. For when you’re taking your dog out on a walk, it’s essential that you have poo bags with you at all times.
To make this experience as simple as possible, it’s beneficial to invest in higher quality, biodegradable poop bags that are thick in material and put the best barrier possible between your hand and the waste.
ID Tags
Either before you bring your dog home or within days of them being at your home, you should go out and purchase ID tags.
Attached to their collar (alternatively, you can purchase a personalized collar with details already stamped on), this will ensure that if they go missing, the person that finds them can contact you and let you know where they are. To make these as useful as possible, make sure to include your dog’s name, along with your details.
Grooming Equipment
No matter what type of dog you’re getting, you’re going to want to invest in grooming equipment from reputable suppliers such as HT Animal Supply to ensure it’s of high quality to keep your dog looking and smelling good. From brushes to shampoo and nail clippers, they will make sure your dog is as clean and groomed as possible – whether it’s their bi-weekly bath or they have gotten muddy on a walk. Although you might find that your dog hates bath time, it’s still worth purchasing this equipment.
Alongside the grooming equipment, you’ll also want to purchase flea treatments for your dog – to ensure that they are protected and that any fleas are swiftly disposed of.
State of the Art Technology
If you really want to push the boat out, why not invest in state-of-the-art technology that’s designed to provide convenience to dog owners.
From cameras that you can place around your home to monitor your dog to a device that feeds your dog treats when you’re away and a fur vacuum, the options are endless in the modern-day. With the ever-evolving technology, it’s exciting to see what the future brings with devices designed for dog owners. So keep an eye on this and uncover the benefits that come with them!
Travel Carrier
This is ideal for when you’re on the go. You want a way of transporting your pup whether it’s to the vets or elsewhere.
Of course, there are alternatives to a carrier – such as a dog bed that’s designed for the car, a harness or a car seat cover. So it’s important to discover which one suits your dog best before heading out on a long car drive; you want them to be as comfortable as possible after all!
Raincoat
Ok, so not all dogs will like this. But some dogs love putting on their raincoat or jacket when it’s time to go on a walk when the weather is poor.
Not only will it help to keep them dry and the rain off of them, but it will also help to keep them warm in the winter months – which is especially important for short-haired dogs that don’t have that natural heating layer.
Collapsible Food and Water Bowl
Another ideal item to have when you’re on the move a collapsible food and water bowl will ensure that your pup stays hydrated and fed no matter where you are. Especially vital in the summer months or when you’re on a long walk, it’s an easily-transportable device that can be purchased from dozens of different stores across the country.
Final Thoughts
So, there you go! Those are 15 essential items that you should purchase before you bring your dog home. Of course, what you purchase is up to you – and will depend on the budget you have and whether you’ve had a dog before (as otherwise, you can reuse certain items!).
Whatever you buy, however, is bound to make introducing your dog into the home easier and as stress-free as possible!
