Getting a puppy for the first time can be both exciting and overwhelming. When you put in the work, time, and patience, you will get a trained puppy with lots of love to show. 

The first few months with a puppy will be a full-time job and require some essentials to keep it comfortable. If you’re new to owning a puppy, here is everything you need to have to check off the new puppy checklist and be the best paw parent you could be.

• Adjustable Dog Collar

A dog collar plays a vital role in puppy training as a correcting and communicative device. You can use it in guiding your puppy through obstacles during training and getting the pup’s attention when misbehaving on a walk. 

Puppies that are still new to training aren’t well behaved yet, so a collar will ensure their safety and others during walks and exercise. Eventually, your puppy will finally identify danger spots after using the collar properly. You may also write down your contact number on your puppy’s collar, so you can be notified if it wanders off.

• Cozy Bed

A puppy should get quality rest to stay healthy and have improved memory. That is why a cozy bed is always on a new puppy checklist. When you choose a bed for your puppy, ensure that it’s the right size with enough room to stretch out.

You will also need a bed with a removable cover that makes cleaning up after your fur companion easy. The bed itself should also be washable, especially because pups still on training can get messy.

• Nutritional Food

When getting your pet’s food, consider feeding them by stages as different stages in your pet’s life requires additional nutrition. As for pups, look for food with meat listed as the first ingredient and give the same brand for extended periods to avoid an upset stomach. 

Additionally, avoid offering your pup homemade food as these may not fit into their nutritional needs, leading to deficiency.

• Dog Leash

Puppies need regular exercise, and by getting a leash, you can guarantee their safety and check another item off the new puppy checklist. When you choose a leash, get a basic one for walks and a long one for training. A leash will ensure that your puppy won’t run away or, even worse, get hit by a car when they get startled. Likewise, getting a leash is important to control movements should you wish to travel with your dog.

• Puppy Training Treats

Choosing the proper training treat isn’t an easy task as some may help the puppy move around distractions while others become the distraction themselves. Dog treats will help instill new behaviors faster by making your puppy focus on you. There are three options available when it comes to dog treats: high-value, medium-value, and low-value treats, each according to your pups’ specific needs.

• Poop Bags

Pet owners need to pick up their animal waste for sanitary purposes. Thus, always bring poop bags with you during your walks to avoid contact with pathogens. Dispose of the poop bag in the trash can properly.

• Puppy Dental Supplies

Get your puppy some dental supplies, including a toothbrush, paste, dental toys, or dental treats to keep its gums and teeth healthy. Good dental hygiene prevents broken teeth, bleeding mouth, drooling, loose teeth, bad breath, and a dog’s inability to eat or drink.

• Grooming Essentials

Puppies vary in coats, and you will need to groom them by cleaning their ears, washing them, checking their eyes, clipping their claws, and brushing their teeth. To accomplish all these, you will need grooming supplies to keep your puppy clean and healthy.

• Dog Crate

Puppies are naturally curious, and getting a crate for training will help house-train them and create boundaries. Crate training provides your puppy with a safe space where it can self-soothe when distressed. 

As for rescued puppies, a crate will be fundamental in adjusting to their new surroundings as they tend to be fearful around new people and environment.

• Dog Toys

Toys are necessary for your puppy’s well-being as they help fight boredom and provide comfort when they need it. However, before buying a dog toy, you should consider the environment, size, and activity preference that may contribute to either danger or safety. For instance, small toys may get lodged in your pup’s throat, so those aren’t advisable.

Bottom Line

Getting a new puppy is an exciting event in your life as you will get a new addition to the family. Take note of the items listed here as you welcome your new buddy.

Published: 2021-12-30 21:34:37