| Bringing a puppy home? Then learn the basics about | | | | Veterinarian: If you don't have a favorite vet already, |
| what every new dog owner must have! | | | | ask family, friends and neighbors for a |
| Now that you've decided to get a puppy or dog, the | | | | recommendation. Have an appointment scheduled |
| next few weeks will be busy and at times, more than | | | | within the first few days of bringing your puppy home, |
| a little bit crazy. That's why it's important to plan in | | | | so your vet can check for worms, other health |
| advance for the arrival of your new pet. If possible, get | | | | conditions, and start her vaccination regimen. |
| as many necessities ready before your puppy comes | | | | The Extras |
| home. | | | | Obedience classes: Every dog can benefit from |
| The Basics | | | | learning some basic obedience skills. |
| Travel crate: Even if you don't plan on crate training | | | | Puppy treats: Yummy treats are the perfect reward |
| your dog, consider the benefits of owning a crate for | | | | when you're working on obedience. Or for when |
| other reasons, like transporting an ill or injured puppy to | | | | they're just being adorable. |
| the veterinarian. | | | | Toys: Chew toys help satisfy your new puppy's |
| Food and water bowls: If you have a puppy, keep the | | | | teething needs. If you'd like to teach your dog to |
| bowls low and shallow. Tip-proof works well, too. As | | | | retrieve, look at purchasing a few balls, but make sure |
| they grow, you'll likely need to upgrade to larger dishes | | | | they're not so small that your dog chokes. A lot of |
| to accommodate your pet's size. | | | | people swear by Kong, an awesome rubber toy you |
| Food: Choose an age-appropriate food. Ask your vet | | | | stuff with treats to keep your new pal busy. |
| or local pet store for recommendations if you're not | | | | Sour apple spray: Use this product to spray on spots |
| sure what kind to purchase. Remember that high | | | | your puppy loves to chew on. It's a terrific deterrent |
| quality dog food keeps your puppy healthier and | | | | for naughty puppies. |
| happier. | | | | Baby gates: Want to keep your dog in one area of |
| Collar: Pick a collar that fits properly now. You can | | | | your house? Use baby gates to corral him. Let's face |
| always upgrade later if necessary. | | | | it; for a lot of us, dogs are our babies anyway! |
| Leash: A six-foot lead works well. Choose the right | | | | Dog house: If your pup will spend any time outdoors, |
| thickness and strength for your dog. A Chihuahua's | | | | he'll love having his own little house. Fill it with great |
| needs are very different from the needs of a | | | | chew toys and a cozy blanket, and it will be the |
| Rottweiler. | | | | perfect home away from home. |
| ID tag: As one of the first things people search for | | | | Doggie door: Training your dog to use a doggie door |
| when finding a stray dog, an ID tag can help make | | | | when she needs to go outdoors makes life easier for |
| sure your puppy makes it home safely. At a minimum, | | | | you and your pal. |
| have your phone number engraved on the tag. | | | | Clothing: Depending on where you live, sweaters or |
| Grooming supplies: Different breeds require different | | | | snow boots may be required outdoor gear for your |
| levels of grooming. However, every pup can benefit | | | | dog. |
| from a good weekly brushing. It's also a great way to | | | | Now that you have the basics on hand, don't forget |
| have quiet, bonding time with your new dog. | | | | the most essential items for your new puppy: lots of |
| Housebreaking supplies: Even adult dogs have | | | | hugs, kisses, and sweet talk. Best of all, they're free! |
| accidents, so be prepared with good cleaning supplies. | | | | |