Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting and joyful experience, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. To ensure a smooth transition and a happy, healthy start for your furry friend, it’s essential to be well-prepared. From supplies to training tools, here are the top 10 things you need for bringing home a new puppy:
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- Dog Crate, Kennel or Bed: Providing a safe and comfortable space for your puppy to rest is crucial. A dog crate or bed gives them a designated area to relax and sleep, and it can also aid in house training. Get your kennel here.
- Food and Water Bowls: Invest in high-quality, durable food and water bowls that are the right size for your puppy’s breed and age. Stainless steel or ceramic bowls are easy to clean and less likely to harbor bacteria than plastic ones. Get this nice ceramic set here.
- Puppy Food: The Rescue or Breeder you purchased from will probably send you home with a small bag. Whether you decide to stay with that brand, be sure to do your research and choose a nutritious puppy food that meets their specific dietary needs. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations based on your puppy’s breed, size, and age. Try this puppy food here. *Do not just switch food; gradually transition them!
- Collar and Leash: A collar with an ID tag and a sturdy leash are essential for outings and training sessions. Make sure the collar fits properly and is comfortable for your puppy to wear. Try out this great harness here – it’s super easy to take on and off. Or a simple collar.
- Toys: Puppies love to play, chew, and explore their surroundings. Provide a variety of toys to keep them entertained and mentally stimulated. Look for toys that are safe for chewing and suitable for your puppy’s size and age. Nylabone is a great, durable product for pups – get a starter pack here. And don’t forget adorable stuffies!
- Grooming Supplies: Regular grooming is essential for your puppy’s health and well-being. Invest in grooming supplies such as a brush or comb, nail clippers, and dog shampoo. Establishing a grooming routine early will help your puppy become comfortable with the process. Nail clippers, 4 in 1 shampoo, and grooming set.
- Puppy Training Pads: Accidents are a natural part of puppyhood, especially during house training. Puppy training pads are convenient for indoor use and can help minimize messes while your puppy learns where to go potty. I am on the fence on this one but a lot of people recommend it. I have a larger dog so I didn’t think getting training pads were necessary but you do what’s best for you! Get a pack of them here.
- Chew Treats: Puppies go through a teething phase, and providing appropriate chew treats can help alleviate discomfort and prevent destructive chewing behavior. Choose chew treats made specifically for puppies and avoid ones that are too hard or small to prevent choking hazards. This one can be froze. Here’s the starter pack again too.
- Puppy Training Books or Resources: Educate yourself on puppy care, training techniques, and behavior management. There are plenty of books, online resources, and training classes available to help you raise a well-behaved and socialized puppy.
- Patience and Love: Above all, bringing home a new puppy requires patience, understanding, and a lot of love. Building a strong bond with your puppy takes time, so be prepared to invest your time and energy into nurturing a lifelong companionship.
Bringing home a new puppy is a rewarding journey filled with joy, laughter, and unconditional love. By providing the essentials listed above and creating a nurturing environment, you’ll set the foundation for a happy and healthy life together with your furry friend. Enjoy every moment of puppyhood, and cherish the memories you’ll create along the way!
