Congratulations on your new dog! You’ve brought your pup home, everyone’s settling in, and now it’s time to do some shopping. Of course, your furry friend needs food and water, but what else should you get?
Let’s start with the basics and then dive into some fun extras. And if you’re worried about leaving your new companion alone, no problem—you can get everything you need delivered quickly to your door when you shop the Pet Supplies section on Amazon.
Plus, if your friends and family want to help spoil your new pooch, you can set up an Amazon Registry to make it easy for them!
1. Food
Since we already mentioned food, let’s talk about that first. The best thing to do is to continue what your dog is currently eating and transition to what you plan to feed them by slowly mixing in the new food, adding more until you wean out the old food. This can prevent tummy troubles in an already stressful time.
And of course, you’ll need those food and water bowls, too!
If your dog eats a little too quickly, you can also try a slow feeder or puzzle bowl.
2. Bed and/or a Crate
Your new furry family member needs a place to feel safe and know is their very own. We recommend a kennel or crate for your dog, but you also may want to get them a special bed. Crating is a good way to keep your pup safe as they are getting acclimated to their new home, and many dogs love to use their crate as a hang-out spot to feel safe and relaxed, even with the door open.
PS: Don’t forget the cozy kennel pad.
3. Pee Pads
Of course, you’ll need these if you have a puppy, but you may want to have some on hand if your new dog is a senior. Check out some tips on the use of pee pads, house training your puppy, and overall potty training.
4. Collar and Name Tag
This is a very important item! If your pet gets lost or gets away from you, this will help ensure they return home to you safely. Many dog parents like collars with their name and number directly on the collar rather than a tag. You can get as fancy or as plain as you want, and let that collar reflect your dog’s personality!
5. Leash
Soon, your dog will recognize the sound of their new leash and come running when you get it! Extendable leashes often end up causing more trouble than they maintain safety, so we recommend a fixed length leash.
Your leash will depend on your dog’s size, age, and pulling ability, and many leashes have comfort grips or dual grips which are nice for pups and parents. You may want to wait a bit before investing in a fancy leash or harness to understand what kind of walker your dog is.
However, especially with a new dog, make sure they are leashed when you take them out to keep them safe and with you. Speaking of going out, don’t forget the poop bags!
6. Treats
It’s best to have a variety of treats for different purposes. You’ll want some basic treats for things like coming in after a walk or for before bed and some high-value ones for training. And then some really high value for key training, like come and leave it.
Pro tip: You can also freeze carrots or banana slices and offer green beans or apple bites!
7. Toys
Of course, you’ll want some toys for your new dog! We recommend a variety of toys to start to see what they like. Some dogs get attached to soft toys, while others destroy them in seconds. Some love tug-of-war and big rope toys, and some would rather have an enrichment toy. Try them out, see what your pup likes, and go from there.
Most of all, your new dog will want love, consistency, and that feeling of safety (and those treats). You don’t need the fanciest toys or the cushiest bed; you and your pup now have what’s most important – each other.
