List of New Puppy Supplies

Few things are more exciting than bringing home a new puppy. There are some basic supplies you should have on hand before your new baby arrives. In the excitement of settling your puppy in, you don't want to have to make a last-minute dash to the store to get something you need. These items are available in a variety of price ranges to suit any budget.

  1. Food

    • The proper food is one of the most important things a new puppy needs. Ask the breeder what brand the animal has been on, as sudden changes in diet can cause diarrhea. You can gradually change over to a new food by mixing increasing quantities of it with the old food. Choose a formula specifically for puppies. Large retail pet stores carry a variety of high-quality brands and some organic formulas. Don't buy cheap food to save money; it often lacks needed nutrients and requires more to supply a full serving. Never feed adult dog food to puppies as it lack nutrition needed by growing pups.

      Be sure to have clean bowls for food and water. Ideally, you should have two sets so they can be swapped out for washing. Heavy plastic or chrome dog dishes are the best, as they are harder for rowdy pups to overturn. Avoid glass which can break and pose a safety hazard.

    Crate

    • The crate is an important training aid for housebreaking, and provides a personal space for your puppy. Choose a size that will accommodate a growing puppy, but not so large that he can defecate on one end and escape to the other end to avoid the mess. If you have a larger breed, you may need to purchase two different sized crates to accommodate a growing dog.

    Bedding

    • Provide your puppy his own clean, soft bedding. Whether you choose a fancy dog bed or just some old clean towels, your new arrival needs to get into a routine of sleeping in an approved place. If you want him to bunk in his crate, line it with plenty of soft towels or a blanket that can be washed.

    Toys

    • Puppies have lots of energy, and need to burn it off in play. Playing also helps young dogs develop cognitive and social skills, besides entertaining their owners. Be sure all toys are safe and free of potential choking hazards. The best toys are those made specifically for dogs. Never give your dog an old shoe or similar item to play with. He will think that any shoe is a toy, not just the one you give him. Toys should be distinct from clothes, rugs and other household items that puppies might be attracted to. A variety of toys that squeak, roll or just provide a chewing surface can help combat boredom.

    Collar and Leashes

    • Your new puppy should learn to wear a collar and walk on a leash immediately. Avoid excessively long collars and very heavy leashes. This may make it difficult to get the puppy used to wearing them, and a too-heavy leash interferes with walking and training to follow commands. Be sure to have an ID tag on your pet's collar in case he escapes.

    Grooming Tools

    • Even if you plan to have the groomer bathe your dog, you will still want some basic tools of the trade for in-between touch-ups, or for when your puppy finds a mud hole in the yard. Puppy shampoos come in no-tears formulas suited for delicate skin. A comb, brush, canine toothpaste and nail clippers also help keep your pup in tip-top shape and looking his best.

    A Good Veterinarian

    • If you don't already have a vet, find one through a referral from friends or family before your new pet arrives. You should take your new puppy to the vet within a couple of days of getting him for an exam and to determine a vaccine schedule. Also find out how to call for after-hours emergencies. Your vet can be an invaluable source of advice on feeding and nutrition, general wellness and behavioral issues. Just as you need regular physical checkups, your puppy needs them also to enjoy many years of good health.