Whether you’re purchasing or adopting a puppy, young, middle-aged, or senior dog, you’re about to embark on a brand new adventure from this moment forward. You and your dog will form a valuable and adoring relationship to last as long as life allows. While congratulations on your addition are in order, we’ve put together a general list of basic items to have for your new friend. This list of essential items for new dog owners was put together with this specific goal in mind: simplifying what’s unfamiliar as you both transition to your life together.
Food and Feeding Supplies
Your doggo is like a child—he or she depends on you to supply their basic needs. These basic needs include eating and drinking. After consulting with your vet for your dog’s feeding and nutritional needs, trial and error can be the best way to find a favorite dog food brand to continue purchasing.
Options for your pet’s dinnerware are in great abundance as hundreds of styles are available to select from. Decorative bowls are usually made out of ceramic, and while they look aesthetically pleasing, they are breakable. Durable rubber or stainless steel bowls for food and water may be the way to go. Tasty and healthy dog treats are vital to have on hand as well, for training and rewarding purposes.
Toys and Chews
There are just as many dog toys available as there are stars in the night sky. Okay, well, maybe not, but there are certainly almost as many dog toys as there are children’s toys. Toys are essential items for new dog owners. Dogs are puppies no matter their age, just like humans can be kids at heart. Dogs can have varying energy levels but are at the core animals who love to run, jump, and play, especially with you and other furry friends. Toys are investments for fun and entertainment.
Dogs also love to chew—it’s in their canine nature. No matter if they’re a puppy or an adult, your dog will need to chew for its mental and physical health. Chewing makes their muscles strong, cleans their teeth, and keeps their minds engaged. Soft or rubber chew toys, as well as tougher edible chews bought online or in-store, can save your sanity as well as your slippers.
Collars, Leashes, and Identification Tags
Out of all the essential items a dog needs, a leash, a collar or harness, and ID tags are at the very top of the list to keep your pup safe while out of the house. Leashes and collars are necessities for walks. Because of the multitude of collar options available for security and comfort, examine thesetips for choosing a dog collar to find onebest suited for your dog.
ID tags are extremely important in case of an emergency or if your dog somehow gets lost, in order for your dog to return home safely. Nobody wants to end up away from their best pet friend. Obtaining these fundamental supplies will grant you both safety, comfort, and joy as you greatly contribute to each other’s lives.
