Bringing Home Your New Puppy: Supplies
February 3, 2010 by Paris and John
Filed under Puppies, Tips
Before you head out the door to pick up your new puppy, be prepared with a few items to have on hand during your dog’s first few nights in his new home:
Collar and leash or pet carrier. Although you’ll wait and see your dog’s size if you’re headed to a shelter, you’ll want a collar for your new dog along with a corresponding sized leash. Buckle collars are excellent for all sizes of dogs. You’ll probably be taking your new dog for an initial vet exam within days after his arrival so a leash or a pet carrier is important.
Dog bowls. For both food and water, stainless steel or heavy ceramic dog bowls are great (puppies can chew right through many plastic dog bowls!)
Dog food. You’ll want to decide on what to feed you new puppy or dog before you bring home your new family member. If, however, you’re headed to a shelter and you’re not sure of the size of your new dog, it might be best to wait and purchase food once you have the dog. (Or play it safe and buy a small bag of small size kibble. Big dogs can eat small pieces of kibble but tiny dogs have a tough time with large size kibble.)
A bed. Every dog needs its own bed; it doesn’t have to be fancy. Many dog lovers suggest tossing in an old t-shirt of yours in the bed so your new dog will become accustomed to your scent.
Toys! Toys are a necessity for a new puppy (and many grown dogs absolutely love toys, too.) When choosing toys, be sure to select ones that are appropriate for the size of your new puppy or dog. Tiny dogs need smaller toys; big dogs have big teeth so you’ll need sturdier toys like tough Kong toys that can be filled with kibble and treats. Whatever you choose, make sure the toys have no small parts that can come off in your dog’s mouth and no squeaker that can be chewed out of the toy and swallowed.
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