Just a few days more and your new furry friend will come to his new home. You are probably super excited about having a dog for the very first time and you want everything to be perfect once your puppy comes home. It is perfectly normal for the dog to be nervous as this will be a whole new environment for him, and it is also perfectly normal for you to be a bit stressed as it’s your first time. However, if you make your home more pet-friendly and equip it with all the dog essentials, the process of adaptation will certainly be less stressful for both of you.
Finding the perfect dog supplies can be challenging as there are many of them to choose from. Go online and visit a good pet store and you will realize just how big the range of foods, toys, and accessories for dogs is, which might get you confused about what to buy. But worry not, I’m here to help you get equipped with all the essentials to make this new experience a great one.
Collar and leash
These two are a must. The collar will hold the ID tag of your dog which contains your phone number and name. Adjustable nylon collars are the best choice. Make sure that the collar fits snugly but it isn’t too tight. Try to put two of your fingers between the dog’s neck and the collar – if they fit well then you’ll know you have the right size. The leash is very useful and needed for walking the dog. It gives you control during the training sessions or walks, which means it needs to be made of strong material. In the beginning, you will need a shorter leash for your puppy, but as he grows, you can consider switching to a longer one.
Food and water bowls
Your new family member will need bowls for food and water and you will find many varieties of them once you enter a pet store. You can choose from stainless steel or ceramic dishes, plastic or you can even find glass bowls. The plastic ones are the most affordable choice but they can easily harbor bacteria, especially in scratched or dented areas. So, if you really want to buy plastic bowls make sure you choose harder ones that are also dishwasher-safe. Glass and ceramic are expensive and breakable. Stainless steel dishes are the most expensive but they are the best choice as well. They are strong, easy to clean and easy for your dog to carry them in his mouth.
Dog bed
When sleeping time comes, your dog will need a comfortable place to lay his head. A bed covered in sheepskin or fleece would be just perfect for your puppy – it will keep him cozy and warm all night long. For increased comfort, you can choose from the vast array for cushions, pillows end even a memory-foam mattress. Most of the dog beds available come with removable and washable covers for easy maintaining. If it is important for you to buy a bed that is environmentally-friendly, opt for one made of soda bottles or repurposed cotton.
Grooming supplies
You will need to take good care of your dog and for that, you will need the right grooming supplies. To keep his coat clean and beautiful, you will need to wash, comb and brush him regularly. Some of the most essential grooming supplies include a bristle brush, comb, blow dryer, conditioning spray, grooming table, scissors, nail clippers, shampoo and conditioner, toothbrush and toothpaste for dogs, towels, etc. Store all the grooming supplies in a plastic container so you can have easy access to everything you need while keeping them well organized.