Being a first-time dog owner is an exciting experience. However, your love and attention aren’t enough to help your pup thrive. Along with this new endeavor, you have to be well-prepared and armed with the right supplies to adapt to pet ownership.
There are plenty of affordable dog supplies you can choose from. Just make sure that when you go out for a shopping spree, prioritize quality over quantity.
For your reference, here’s a list of what you should buy for your new furry pal.
1. Collar and Leash
A collar is your best tool to control and identify your dog. It can contain your personal information, and if you go out for a walk in the park, you’ll need a collar and a leash to keep your pet restrained. If your pet is still a puppy, don’t leave his collar unattended as young pups tend to get their lower jaw stuck in these.
Make sure that any collar you put on your pet is loose enough for you to insert a couple of fingers in between your puppy’s neck. Also, it shouldn’t be so loose that it can easily slide over his head when walking on a leash. For a start, choose a sturdy lightweight leash of about four to six feet long, and avoid a chain leash as it’s difficult to hold.
2. Bed
Like humans, dogs need their own area where they can relax and feel safe, which is what a dog bed is for. To help your pup get accustomed to his new bed, place some of his favorite toys on it. In due course, your dog will feel comfortable on his bed and will no longer try to sleep on your couch or bed.
Make sure to put your dog’s bed in a quiet corner, away from the hustle and bustle of the household. You want your pup to get a nice, good quality sleep, and that can only happen if he has a good place to rest.
3. Treats
Feeding your pet dog food is one of the basics of pet ownership. But if you want to train your dog to become well-behaved, you’ll need some treats on hand. For convenience, you can even buy dog treats online if you can’t visit the store personally. Training your pup with treats helps build a strong bond between you and your pet, which leads to more smiles and tail-wags.
4. Toys
Dogs are playful in nature and love toys. However, keep in mind that some dog toys can be hazardous for energetic dogs. For instance, a canine can easily tear open a toy with a squeaker or any tiny item inside, which can cause him to choke.
Pick high-quality toys that can withstand your dog’s energy level so you can have peace of mind during playtime. Tough toys are far more durable and provide your pet hours of enjoyment without falling apart. Toys also do a great job of easing the anxiety of frustration by giving your dog hours of chewing fun.
5. Grooming Supplies
If you don’t want a smelly dog in the house, you need to groom your pet regularly with bathing and brushing. Make sure you have brushes, nail clippers, and dog shampoo handy.
For a young puppy, a soft-bristle brush is ideal. Later on, as your pet grows into an adult dog, you can pick a brush that’s suitable for his coat, considering the length and texture. Getting a dog toothbrush and toothpaste is also ideal for your pet’s dental care, just make sure not to use human toothpaste.
6. Exercise Pen
An exercise pen will provide your pet some freedom while blocking off restricted areas in your home. This is much safer than locking your pup inside the bathroom. What’s more, your pup is less likely to object to the idea because he won’t get that closed-in feeling that a small room gives.
You can set up the exercise pen in the kitchen or the living room. You can choose any area where your dog can be out from underfoot but still be a part of the family area during those times when you can’t keep a close eye on him.
7. Car Cover
If you want to take your pet with you on outdoor adventures, then you’d need to protect your car interior from mud as well as dog hair. A car cover works best in shielding your car seat anytime you plan to bring along your furry pal for a ride. Moreover, car covers provide your pup with a comfy place to lie on while also reducing the risk of stains.
To keep your pet safer inside the car, also consider getting a dog seat belt. This keeps your dog from sliding inside the car as he may have difficulty staying in one place. A seat belt restraint also keeps your dog safe in case of an accident.
Think of what your dog really needs
Don’t get easily swayed by promotions on dog supplies. You will only end up spending your money on things that your pet doesn’t need.
Take note of the dog supplies listed above and consider your dog’s breed when buying them to ensure you have the correct items that will help him have a great stay in your home, and a happy life.
AUTHOR BIO
Farah Al-Khojai is the Managing Partner of Pet’s Delight. A passionate entrepreneur, Farah holds a Bsc in Government from the London School of Economics. She is always on the lookout for new opportunities to develop and grow the pet and equestrian retail and wholesale market in the UAE and beyond, and is proud to be at the helm of the first and the largest pet care provider in the market representing world-class brands including Orijen, Applaws, Hunter, Savic, Flamingo, Ruffwear and Rogz.