From Ruff to Ready: The Ultimate Puppy Starter Kit for New Dog Owners!
You are about to start the exciting and joyful experience of welcoming a new puppy into your home. While the anticipation is hard to handle, it is important to make sure you are fully prepared for its arrival to maximize the paw-sitive times and minimize any overwhelming moments. By getting some essential supplies beforehand, you’ll be ready to provide the best care and support needed in its new world. So get ready to create your Puppy Starter Kit with these 10 essential products for a lifetime of unforgettable adventures.
1. Collar and ID Tag
One of the first things you’ll need is a collar and an ID tag. Choose a collar that fits comfortably and securely considering the breed, size, and specific needs of your pup. A properly fitted collar allows you to comfortably insert two fingers between the collar and your puppy’s neck. A few types of collars to consider are Adjustable Nylon, Martingale, Breakaway, leather, and personalized with a pretty fabric design or/and embroidered name and phone number. Personally, I am against Choke collars, or any other device that promotes causing pain to the dog for training purposes. I am all for positive reinforcement using treats and praise to reward desirable behavior rather than punishing unwanted behaviors.
Adjustable Nylon Collars
A popular choice for puppies due to their affordability and versatility.
Martingale Collars
Designed to prevent your puppy from slipping out of the collar.
Breakaway Collars
Designed with a safety feature that allows the collar to break open if it gets caught on something.
The ID tag should have your Pet name and your contact information, including your phone number, in case your puppy gets lost. It’s crucial for their safety and your peace of mind! You can get one really quickly at any Petco and PetSmart id tag machines. When a dog is loose, it can be skittish and hard to approach so reading the ID tag could be almost impossible. For these cases consider other options like personalized dog collars as dog IDs where your info can be read from far away. The following are some cute options I found on Etsy.
2. Leash
A must-have for taking your puppy on walks and keeping them under control when outdoors. When choosing the leash, it is important to consider the size and behavior of the puppy. For those enthusiastic dogs that love to pull, a harness might be also needed to prevent them from choking and to handle them easier while in training. These are some examples:
Retractable leash
Usually used in small breeds like Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Yorkshire Terriers, etc. It provides flexibility and freedom to explore while maintaining control.
Nylon Dog Leash
This can be used in small, medium, and large breeds. Available in different lengths and widths, it is budget-friendly and offers a balance between control and freedom.
Dog Harness
This is particularly important for dogs prone to pulling or those with delicate throats or respiratory issues. A harness distributes the pressure across the dog’s chest and shoulders, reducing strain on its neck. You can find them with hooks in the front, in the back, and both.
3. Dog Bed
Puppies need a space where they feel comfortable and safe, this space usually includes a bed. When choosing a bed it is important to consider the pup’s size and weight to find the best-padded support for the joints and to allow him to stretch and rest. Look for orthopedic beds, with removable covers that wash easily. These are some highly rated beds at Amazon, you can also find plenty on Etsy. If you are on a budget, Ross and TJMaxx have affordable options.
Donut Rounded Bed
These beds are circular in shape with raised sides that mimic the shape of a donut, creating a warm and snuggly space for dogs to curl up and providing both comfort and a sense of security.
Orthopedic Sofa Style Bed
These beds mimic the coziness of a sofa, creating a comforting nest-like space where dogs can curl up and rest comfortably. They are typically made of a thick and dense memory foam mattress that offers orthopedic support while sleeping.
Anti Slip Bottom Beds
Anti-slip beds for dogs are designed with non-slip bottom or textured materials that grip the floor, keeping the bed in place even during energetic movements or sudden shifts in weight.
4. Food and Water Bowls
Invest in high-quality, non-tip, sturdy food and water bowls. Opt for materials like stainless steel that are easy to clean and maintain, and ensure the bowls are suitable for your puppy’s size. If you are buying a plastic bowl, make sure it’s safe plastic free of BPA commonly found in some plastics that can potentially leach into food or water and pose health risks.
Stainless Steel Bowl
Stainless steel bowls are highly recommended due to their durability, hygiene, and resistance to chewing.
Slow Feeder Bowl
These bowls are specially designed for fast eaters. The bowl ridges and obstacles make the dog slow down its eating time while working around to access the food. It promotes healthier eating habits and prevents gulping or choking.
Raised Pet Bowls
Also known as elevated feeders, these are designed to promote better posture and digestion health by reducing strain on your pet’s neck and back, and the risk of regurgitation and gastrointestinal discomfort.
5. Puppy Food
Selecting the right puppy food is crucial for their growth and development. Consult your veterinarian to determine the best nutrition for your puppy’s specific needs. A well-balanced and age/size/breed-appropriate diet lays the foundation for a healthy life. Something else that I recommend you consider if it is within your budget, it’s to buy a food intolerance test.
For the first year of his life, our dog a chocolate lab named Lucca had bad loose stools. We tried different food brands with different proteins, including those for sensitive stomachs, but his poops continued to be unpickable. We also tried making him homemade meals, but it was hard to know if he was getting adequate nutrition for a growing puppy, plus the rice was constipating him. It was impossible to take him on walks without leaving mushy stool behind somewhere along the way and feeling terrible for not being able to clean it better.
Then a friend recommended buying 5Strands Food Intolerance Test, and everything changed for the better. We discovered that he was intolerant to many foods we were giving him like salmon-based chow, apples, zucchini, beef meal, peas, etc. With that new information, we were able to find food without the ingredients he is intolerant to, and we hadn’t had any bad poop since.
6. Treats
Treats are valuable tools for training, rewarding good behavior, and strengthening the bond with your puppy. Choose treats specifically designed for puppies, ensuring they are nutritious, tasty, and often softer and easier to chew. Opt for treats made with high-quality, natural ingredients and avoid those that contain artificial additives, preservatives, or fillers. Remember, treats should complement your puppy’s balanced diet and not substitute for their regular meals.
7. Chew Toys
Puppies love to explore and chew. Provide a variety of safe and durable chew toys to satisfy their natural instinct and prevent destructive chewing on household items. Look for toys designed for teething and mental stimulation.
Chewing toys for teething puppies are a must-have to help alleviate discomfort and keep them engaged. Look for toys made out of rubber or silicone that are soft and gentle on their gums. These toys provide a satisfying chewing experience and can help soothe their sore gums during the teething phase. Look for toys with different textures and shapes to provide variety and keep your puppy interested. It’s essential to choose durable and non-toxic toys that are safe for your puppy to chew on. With the right chewing toys, you can redirect their chewing behavior from furniture or shoes to appropriate and enjoyable toys. Avoid toys with ropes as they can pose potential dangers to dogs with the risk of ingesting fibers or pieces of the rope that can lead to gastrointestinal blockages or obstructions.
Petco and PetSmart have many great options. If you are on a budget discounted stores like Ross and TJMaxx have many available as well. Here are some basic examples from Amazon:
8. Training Pads
An important aspect of raising a puppy is potty training, and training pads can be a helpful tool in the process. Training pads, also known as pee pads or puppy pads, are absorbent pads designed to capture and contain your puppy’s urine. These absorbent pads help contain accidents and simplify the process of teaching your puppy where to go potty, especially in small spaces like studios and apartments where the puppy doesn’t have access to an outdoor area. You can find them at Petco, Petsmart, Chewy, and discounted stores like TJMaxx and Ross. If you are looking for a more ecologically friendly option, you can buy Washable pee pads or a Fresh patch of grass.
Basic Pee Pads
Washable Pee Pads
Fresh Pads
9. Grooming Supplies
Grooming supplies are essential for maintaining your dog’s hygiene and appearance. Invest in a brush or comb suitable for their coat type, nail clippers, dog shampoo, and ear cleaning solution. Regular grooming not only keeps them looking their best but also promotes their overall well-being.
10. Poop Bags
Responsible pet ownership includes cleaning up after your puppy. Keep a good supply of poop bags handy for walks and outdoor excursions.
I only recommend products, I would use myself. This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no charge to you. You can read the full disclaimer here.
In addition to the essential products mentioned above, it’s important to emphasize the significance of obtaining a license for your dog. A dog license helps identify your pet and ensures that they are up to date on vaccinations. It also contributes to community safety and supports local animal services. Contact your local government or animal control to inquire about the requirements and benefits of licensing your furry friend.
Remember to prioritize their safety, nutrition, and well-being as you embark on this incredible adventure together!