TOP 10 ESSENTIALS
We've included a list of the top 10 puppy essentials you are going to need in order to get started for life with your new puppy. Some people may find that with smaller breeds things such as gates and large carrier are unnecessary. We've included them here in this list because they are very necessary for large breeds and can be useful even with a smaller breed. All images are also links to J-B Wholesale Pet Supplies where you can find all these items at wholesale discounted prices.
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1. Crates and Carriers
Crates are a great way to not only keep your dog safe while you away from home but also as an effective potty training method. They come in a varity of sizes depending on the breed of dog. Some even come in adjustable forms if you have a fast growing breed.
Carriers are great for small dogs and can also be used when traveling to carry your puppy around. If trained properly your puppy will come to love its new crate or carrier and treat it as a safe haven. |
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2. Gates
If you live in a house with stairs or if you simply want to corner off a certain area from your puppy that you need a puppy gate. They come in various sizes and usually can be expanded and contracted to fit any space. |
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3. Bowls and Feeders
Bowls are important because thats where you are going to be putting the food you feed your puppy. The best puppy bowls are stainless steal because they can be cleaned easily and do not build up bacteria and other pathogens like other materials. |
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4. Collars and Leads
A good collar is important because it is what you will be using to train your dog, walk him and also as a means of identification. For small breeds it's ok leather or fashion collars (just as long as they are sturdy). For really small breeds some people like to use body harnesses so as not to hurt their puppy's necks (even though a dog's neck is the strongest part of its body). For larger breeds choke chains are sometimes preferred for easier training. Even though some may look medevil they do not really hurt your puppy.
Leads are also an important part of your arsenal. Leather leads are stronger and last longer but simple plastic ones work as well. Gentle leaders that go around the puppies muzzle can be helpful in dealing with unruly puppies but are not for all. Extendable leashes are great but you need to constantly watch that your puppy doesn't run off because they can extend pretty far. |
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5. Grooming Tools
Grooming is very important especialy for hairy breeds. A puppy that is not groomed soon becomes matted and tangled. Matted hair can lead to infestation of fleas and other parasites. Grooming can also be a very bonding time for you and your puppy. Doing your grooming with a gentle massage gets your puppy used to being touched which is necessary down the line for doctor's visits and other important times. |
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6. Dog Food
What you feed your dog is very important. You want to buy a healthy, organic, natural dog food especially formuatled for the needs of a growing puppy. Puppies need more protein and vitamins than a full sized dog so make sure you buy formula espeically designed for them. As your puppy grows older you can switch to an adult formula. |
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7. Dental Care
Keeping your puppies teeth clean are very important. Some hands on parents are willing to use a puppy tooth brush and paste. At a minimum you need to make sure your puppy has doggie bones it can chew to clear off the plaque on its teeth. |
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8. Toys
While puppy toys are not an absolute essential they are pretty close to it. While you are away or even while you are home your puppy needs toys to interact with. Kongs are great ways to provide stimulation for your puppy, as are a million other toys that are on the market. |
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9. Training Tools
Take the 6 Day Doggie Training Course from SitStayFetch. This great course has tons of usefull informaiton on training your new puppy and comes with a 60 day guarantee. |
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10. Cleaning Supplies
Cleaning supplies are absolutely essential for your new life with your puppy. Your puppy will be pooping, peeing and generally making a mess everywhere. It is important to clean it up fast and to leave no scent. If there is a lingering scent your puppy will return to that spot to cause more problems. |
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