Bringing a Dog or a Puppy Home?
The benefits of getting a dog are clear. 84% of people believe that owning a pet, such as a dog, improves their mental health, and 65% believe pet ownership boosts their physical health. However, a lot of responsibility is involved in taking on a furry friend, so prepare before you bring your pup home.
Here are some essential items you’ll need to purchase before welcoming a new canine companion into your home.
Health and Safety Items Your Pup Needs
Collar or Harness?
A good quality collar or harness is essential for keeping your dog under control when walking them. Collars don’t restrict movement too much, which is excellent for dogs that like to sniff and explore. However, collars can lead to throat damage for dogs that pull on the leash. Dogs with small heads, such as whippets and greyhounds, can easily slip out of collars.
Harnesses can give you a more secure hold on your dog and better control, and they tend to be more comfortable for dogs that pull. However, they can inadvertently train your dog to pull when the leash attaches to the back of the harness because the dog can put all their weight into dragging you along. If you’re getting a big, strong dog, be sure to choose a harness with a clip on the front for attaching the leash, as this can help to reduce excessive pulling. Please visit this post on the Collar or Harness question on
If you opt for a collar, keep in mind that there’s a potential strangulation hazard if your dog accidentally catches the collar on something – an issue that is more common than you might think. A solution is to use a breakaway collar with a clasp designed to pull apart with brute force to prevent strangulation. They’re less secure for walking your dog than traditional collars, but they’re an excellent option for your dog to wear around the house if you want to ensure they have a collar with a tag on at all times.
For further reading, please visit: No More Death by Collar, Dog Leader Mysteries.
What Type of Bedding?
Your dog needs to have a place to sleep that feels secure and peaceful, and it’s a good idea to have more than one bed available. Keep one in an area where you and the family spend lots of time and one in a room that tends to be very quiet. If you have more than one dog, they should have a bed each, even if they tend to share. This gives them the freedom to find their own space when needed.
You can choose a few dog bed styles; some have sides that can help dogs curl up and get cozy, which is ideal if they sleep in a cold room. Mattress beds can help them to stretch out flat and stay cool in summer. Very nervous dogs often prefer igloo-style beds with roofs, which helps them hide away and feel safe. Orthopedic and memory foam beds offer designs to provide additional comfort and support for dogs with joint problems, and they’re perfect for older dogs who are susceptible to aches and pains.
Photo by Ayla Verschueren on Unsplash
Which Dog Safety Products Should You Chose?
If you are transporting your dog in your car, you’ll need items to keep them secure. For your dog’s safety, prevent him from roaming around the vehicle and posing a distraction to the driver. Always securely restrain your pet from minimizing injury if your vehicle is in an accident.
You can buy dog seat belts or harness clips to keep dogs safely positioned on the back seats. A car-friendly dog crate is often safer for small dogs and puppies as they’re more likely to wriggle out of a harness. You can strap the crate securely onto the back seats using seat belts.
Crates also come in handy for use in the home. They’re a secure place to put your dog in any instance where they need to be kept safe. Plus, they can limit your dog’s access to the home when they’re left unattended to minimize the risk of them chewing something dangerous. When choosing a crate, get one that’s big enough for the dog to stand, turn around and stretch out inside. If your dog is still a puppy, get a crate they’ll grow into for use at home but use a crate that fits their size when traveling.
Choose the Right Dog Foods
Finding the right food for your dog may take trial and error as you learn what they like and what’s good for their health. Don’t be tempted to buy cheap supermarket kibble. Good quality dry food with high protein levels will help keep your dog healthy. Always read the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) statement on dog food labels. These stipulate that pet food has been formulated to meet minimum nutrition profiles for a complete and balanced diet.
Check food labels to see if a food is suited to your dog’s age, size, and activity levels. Your pet’s nutritional needs will likely change as they age and their activity levels fluctuate. For example, working dogs need more calorie-dense food to give them enough energy for their higher activity level. Look for specialist foods for puppies and senior dogs which contain the unique nutrients needed for these age groups.
Canine Cleaning Products
Shop for enzymatic cleaners that remove pet stains and odors. These will save you time and effort in potty training. The enzyme cleaner removes canine scents. If your pup has an accident on your rug and you use the enzyme cleaner, your dog won’t be confused. Erase the spot so he knows NOT to potty there again. You will find these products in the pet aisle.
Remember to limit your puppy’s or dog’s excitement. Family members should use a calm and quiet voice in the first days and weeks. Keep your pup with you as you go through your day. Take him to the kitchen in the morning. Always keep a bowl full of fresh water for your pup. Feed your pup smaller meals more often in the first few weeks. This move comes as a challenge to your new pup. Keep all training sessions short. Be consistent in guiding your pup to his potty spot.
Enjoy your new furry family member. It’s exciting to say hello to a new family member, and the better prepared you are with the right products, the more fun you can have when you bring your new dog home.
Author bio: Kate Jones
Kate has a passion for animals and has volunteered with animal charities for many years. Kate is an avid pet lover and believes every animal deserves a loving home. She hopes that her posts help other animal enthusiasts make informed decisions about whether getting a pet is the right choice for them.
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