So, you decided to expand your family and add a new pet to your home. Congratulations, it is the beginning of an amazing journey. Now the next step is deciding where to get your new pet from. Keep in mind that getting a dog is a major decision and a long-term commitment in both time and money. However, as challenging as it can get, the rewards are definitely worth the journey.
Before your new dog arrives, make sure you understand its needs. Additionally, make sure you have all the essential supplies your new arrival needs. In order to be well-prepared and make the welcoming complete, you need to grab your wallet and head to the nearest pet center. It is time for a shopping spree.
We have even compiled a checklist for you. The things you need to buy if adopting a dog:
Table of Contents
1. Dog Food
Alright, this may seem too obvious. However, we need to emphasize this because choosing the right for your new fur baby is not as easy as it sounds. To make the right decision, ask what the dog ate before you got it. Dogs especially young puppies have sensitive tummies and sudden diet changes may be upsetting. Feed your dog the same food it used to eat in its previous home and keep that same diet for at least 2 weeks. Then, if you want you can start gradually introducing new foods. The dog food you choose needs to contain high-quality ingredients and be free of harmful fillers, additives, and artificial preservatives.
2. Food and Water Bowls
There are many types of bowls and choosing the right ones can be difficult. We recommend you to choose between non-slip ceramic and metal food and water bowls. Nonslip rubber bases are excellent. The best food bowls have slopped sides on the inside that are easy for the dog to lick clean. Plastic bowls are not recommended because plastic usually contains some harmful and potentially toxic ingredients and is harder to clean. Another important factor you need to consider is the size of the bowls. The right size depends solely on the dog’s size.
3. Dog Bed
Dogs like having a place on their own. Having a bed gives them a sense of security, privacy and ownership. In addition, dog beds are a great insulation from the floor, cushion the joints and have many other health benefits. Dog beds are good for you too. They keep the dog off your couches and concentrate all of your dog’s shedding and dander in one place. Most dog beds have removable and machine washable covers that are easy to maintain. As for the bed’s size, design and type – the sky is your limit. The market offers a plethora of beds, ranging from small boxes with pillows to miniature bedroom suites. Read about the best dog beds here.
4. Collar and Leash
If your dog is still young it is advisable to purchase a lightweight and inexpensive braided nylon collar. When the dog is physically more mature, you can invest in a more expensive designer collar. The leash should also be lightweight but make sure it is sturdy enough. You do not want your dog tearing the leash and running free. The leash’s length depends on whether your new dog is already trained or requires future training. If you are looking for the best retractable dog leashes we did a buyers guide on it. It is advisable to purchase at least two leashes – one for your car and one for your home. However, dog harnesses are safer than collars as there is less stress on the dog’s neck and the weight is evenly distributed.
5. Identification
It is highly recommended to have an ID tag already engraved. Some collars come with a tag and in some, it needs to be added. Another alternative is to buy a capsule ID container. Regardless of which option you choose, it is important for the ID to contain all the relevant details – your dog’s name, your name, telephone number, address, or other contact information. Having an ID ensures your dog will be retrieved back to you in case of getting lost. It is a small investment at first but it will definitely pay off in the long run.
6. Grooming Supplies
Indulging your dog with professional grooming every time it needs a little trim can be quite expensive. Keep in mind that even shorthaired dog breeds need occasional grooming. It is better to get things into your own hands and groom your dog at home. Therefore you need to purchase some grooming essentials. There are 3 must-own grooming tools for grooming at home. Those tools include – a suitable dog shampoo, a grooming clipper, and a flea comb. The tools you choose need to be compatible with your dog’s fur. If you are not sure how to make the right choice, ask the salesperson at the pet shop. A dog grooming table also makes life a lot easier for you when it’s time to groom.
7. Toys
it may sound like a luxury but in fact, toys are quite necessary. Toys are helpful tools when building trust and enriching your relationship with the new dog. In addition, they can be practical especially if you need to spend time away from your dog. Toys keep your dog busy and depend on the type of toy mentally or physically stimulated. Some toys can do both. When the dog is mentally and physically stimulated it will not get bored and start acting destructively. Purchase at least three toys your dog can use to chew on, squeak or pull.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have purchased all the things on our checklist you are ready to properly welcome your new canine companion. Well…almost ready. We cannot talk about dog essentials without mentioning the importance of finding a good veterinarian that will take care of your pouch’s health and well-being. Finding a good vet is not something you can purchase and that is why is not listed above. However, it is considered an essential part of being a responsible and well-prepared dog parent. We highly recommend you to find a vet before you need to make your first regular trip to the vet’s office and definitely before an emergency occurs.
With everything being said, it is time for you to welcome your new arrival.
If you’re concerned about puppies leaving their mother too early, you may want to read this article, “Can Puppies Leave Their Mother at 6 Weeks?”