Congrats on your new dog! If this is your first puppy, this article will tell you about all the vital things your new pup needs.

1) A name – One of the first things your new pooch needs (if she or he doesn’t already have one) is a name. For some ideas and inspiration, check out this website for some wonderful male dog names and female dog names.

2) A crate or cage – A crate is a rugged container that can be used to safely carry and house your dog. Make sure that it is large enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in.  Some people use a crate or cage to train their puppies and to supply their canines with a stretch that is the dog’s personal space.

3) A dog collar, tag and leash – these items are imperative for safety and identification.  Check to see that a tag or other form of identification (bearing your name, current residence and telephone number) is tightly fastened to your dog’s collar so that if your dog runs away, it can be brought back to you.  Also, for safety reasons, don’t walk him or her without a leash. Leashes come in a variety of sizes and colors, including retractable leashes or ones that have lights on them for walking in the nighttime.

4) Dog food – lots of dog foods are made with low grade ingredients and innutritious fillers. You certainly want your pooch to live a long, blissful life (and if you don’t want unnecessary veterinary bills), take measures to feed them a good grade of dog food!  See this article to inform yourself about dog food ingredients and see how you can buy high quality food at affordable prices.

5) Water and food bowls – they come in all shapes and sizes. Separate water and food bowls are easier to fill than ones that are connected. There are some that are electronically operated so that your pooch can be fed when you’re not at home.  Use your lifestyle and budget to guide your choice.  Just remember to ALWAYS leave your dog with a way to get plenty of fresh water.

6) Dog treats and chews – canines love to chew (especially puppies) so it’s a great idea to give them something to chew on besides your shoes and other personal items.   There are plenty of options – rawhide, freeze-dried meat and dental dog treats (like Greenies) are only a few of them.

7) Dog brush – keep your pooch looking healthy and minimize shedding by brushing them a few times a week.  For problem shedders, products like the FURminator deshedding tool are really good at minimizing the amount of hair your dog leaves around the house.  

8) Flea and tick treatments – if you don’t want your house infested by fleas and ticks (and who does!) it’s a good idea to treat your puppy with a product that kills and repels for up to 30 days (such as those made by Frontline) or to use a dog collar that repels pests as well.

9) Dog bed – a dog bed will help your dog sleep cozily and also provide him with a space in your home that is their very own place. (It might also dissuade them from attempting to jump onto your own bed!)

10) Dog toys – like dog treats and chews, dog toys will help prevent your dog from chewing the things you don’t want chewed!   They’re also a great way to play with and exercise your pup, which helps diminish problem behaviors.  Look for items that you can play fetch with or that will keep your dog stimulated like the KONG dog toy that bounces in various directions.


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