8 Items You’ll Need Before Bringing Your New Puppy Home
Congratulations! You’re welcoming a furry new friend into your home. Owning a puppy is a huge commitment, so it’s important that you have everything ready for their new arrival. In this article, we’ll discuss eight items you’ll need before you pick them up and welcome them to their forever home. Let’s get started!
Comfy Bedding
One of the first things you’ll need to buy for your new friend is some comfy bedding. This is important, as they need to be able to have a safe, warm place to rest during the day and night. If you find that your puppy has separation anxiety, some beds are designed to calm them during the day. The support around the side allows them to have something to snuggle into, and they come in a variety of sizes.
A new collar and leash
Next on the list is a new collar and leash! This is very important so that you can take your new puppy on walks to help them burn off all of that energy. Check out these preppy dog collars and leashes if you’re interested!
You also want to make sure that you get a charm for your collar so that your dog can be easily identified if lost. If you have a smaller dog breed, such as a Chihuahua or Pomeranian, you may have to consider getting a cat collar or harness which will have a better fit.
Food and water bowl
Obviously, every puppy will need a food and water bowl! There are many different designs available, with sizes for even the smallest dogs. If you find that your puppy is eating too quickly, you might also consider investing in a slow feeder, which lets them forage for their food. Or, if you’re after something tech-savvy, you can purchase an automatic dog feeder and water dispenser.
Puppy training pads
Toilet training a puppy can be difficult, especially if you don’t have a doggy door to let them outside during the day and night. Puppy training pads can be a great first step and can teach them to only go to the toilet in one area of the house.
An alternative option is to use a pet potty with turf. This way, they understand that grass is an appropriate area to go to the bathroom. However, they aren’t as easy to clean and can’t be disposed of like regular training pads.
A crate
A crate can provide your new puppy with a safe space to relax as they are settling into your home. It also trains them to acknowledge that this is a resting area, and can stop them from barking during the day, and destroying the house.
Since dogs also don’t go to the bathroom in their sleep area, it also trains them to hold their bladder during the night, which can assist with toilet training.
Plenty of toys
Puppies love to play, so before you bring your new friend home, you want to make sure they have a variety of toys to keep them entertained. Not only does this allow them to burn off energy, but certain toys can assist with their dental health, and stop them from chewing household furniture. Take a look at some of the most popular dog toys to help you get started.
Flea and worm treatments
When you take your puppy to the vet to get their vaccinations, they will generally administer a flea and worm treatment. However, this is something that you have to keep up over time so that they don’t get ill.
You can purchase these treatments at the vet, online, or at any pet store. Just make sure you get the right dosage.
Puppy food and treats
And last, on the list, you definitely want to make sure you have plenty of food and treats for your new best buddy. The food you buy must be branded specifically for puppies, as these contain essential vitamins and nutrients to keep your pup happy and healthy. Treats are also a great idea, as they can help you teach your pet new tricks and assist with toilet training.
And that’s it! By ensuring you have all of the above, everything will be ready for the arrival of your new best friend. Remember, a pet is for life! So, make sure you buy new toys and equipment as your puppy grows. If you’re after more advice, give your local vet a call. They will be able to answer any questions so that you can look after your new buddy. Good luck!