Shopping checklist for a new dog

Purchase supplies ahead of time when you are preparing for a new dog. Here are the recommended items:


--Dog food: Consider your dog’s age and size, and choose the appropriate high-quality food. Get recommendations from your veterinarian.
--Food and water bowls: Food and water bowls can’t be easily tipped over so they should be heavy. Stainless steel or ceramic ones are the best, even though stainless steel can get really hot in the sun. Plastic bowls will grow bacteria. For larger dogs or older dogs who have trouble stooping, raised bowls are ideal.
--Toys: Get a selection of toys. To provide relief from teething, buy high-quality rawhide and nylon bones. Interactive toys like balls or Kongs or plush toys keep the dogs busy.
--Grooming tools: Grooming basics are brush, flea comb, shampoo and nail clippers.
--Toothbrush and toothpaste: Keeping your dogs teeth clean and healthy is important. Buy brushes and paste especially for dogs at your pet supply store or from your veterinarian.
--Crate: Choose a crate big enough so your dog can stand up and turn around in it, but not too big so he can get away from the mess that he makes. A good choice for puppies may be the crates that have dividers that make it temporarily smaller. As they are growing, the crate will grow with them. A crate is a comfortable place for them to sleep and rest, but it is also a great tool for housetraining and keeping your dog safe while you are traveling. Use a blanket or a fleece mat as a cushion in the crate.
--Bed: Your dog will need a comfortable dog bed if he is not sleeping in a crate.
--Collar and leash: Get an adjustable nylon or flat leather collar, especially if your dog is quick-growing, and check its fit often. You should be able to fit two fingers under the collar, yet it should be tight enough that the dog won’t escape. For walks, use a 4- to 6- foot leash.
--Identification tag: The dog’s ID tag should have the dogs name, your name, your address, and phone number. If it only has two lines, then put your dog’s name and your phone number.
--First aid kit: For minor emergencies, get a basic first aid kit.
--Treats for training: To positively influence the dog’s learning experiences, get healthy soft treats.
--Baby gates: Use these to block stairs or any other place that you don’t want your dog to have access to.

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