Best Puppy Supplies for New Dog Owners
DOG PRODUCTS AND ACCESSORIES
Pure Doggy Delights
9/19/20246 min read
Getting a new puppy is one of the most exciting moments for any dog lover, the teeny tiny paws, the cute nose and the cuddles are irresistible, it is necessary to be prepared because having a puppy also means a lot of responsibility. Bringing my dog, Echo home was a whirlwind of excitement and a little bit of chaos. He was this tiny ball of fluff, wagging his tail non-stop and trying to chew everything in sight. We were so nervous, but with the right essentials, he quickly settled into our home, and now, we can't imagine life without him. Here are some of the essentials that made the transition smoother for all of us.
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1. Dog Toys
Chewing was Echo’s favorite hobby during his first few weeks. To save our shoes (and sanity), we gave him some toys. They were lifesavers! These toys kept him entertained and soothed his teething gums. Every dog is different, so find out what your pup loves to chew on, and trust me, you’ll save your furniture. It’s a good idea to start with a variety. This way, you can figure out which ones your puppy loves most and stock up on those. You can check out this chew toy set
Puppy Chew Toys for Teething Dogs
2. Dog Bed
A cozy, comfortable dog bed is a must-have. When choosing a bed, go for something soft and supportive, especially if your pup is still growing. You can opt for a bed with a removable cover for easy cleaning because, let’s be real, puppies can get messy.
At first, you don’t need to splurge on a luxury dog bed. Accidents happen and your pup might try to chew on his bed in those early weeks. Look for something practical and durable to get you through those first months. As your dog grows, you can upgrade to a larger, more plush option. The key is to make sure your pup feels comfortable and has a designated spot to rest and recharge after all that puppy energy is spent.
3. Crate
Echo took to his crate surprisingly well. At first, it was his little hideaway when he felt overwhelmed, but as time went on, it was his go-to nap spot. A crate gives puppies a sense of security, and with a soft, cozy bed, it becomes their safe zone.
While we don’t believe that a dog should be kept in a crate all day, it’s a helpful practice when you’re not home. You can’t always trust them to roam freely without getting into mischief, or worse, wandering off and getting lost.
4. Quality Dog Food
Feeding a puppy a high-quality diet was something we don’t want to compromise on. With so many options out there, it can feel overwhelming, but finding the right food is crucial for your puppy’s health and development. You can research different brands and consult with your vet to pick a food that supports your dog’s growth and energy levels. And do not forget to provide fresh water at all times especially during meal time.
5. Food & Water Bowls
With Echo, I went for stainless steel bowls because they’re easy to clean and don’t hold odors. A stand to keep the bowls off the floor helped a lot too because Echo’s excitement at mealtime often led to spills. When choosing a food and water bowl for your pup, it is important to choose the right size. It’s always a good idea to consider the size of the bowl in relation to your pup. The larger your dog, the larger the bowl. Also, don’t forget that as your dog grows, they’ll need bigger bowls to make eating and drinking easier for them.
6. Leash, Collar & ID Tag
One of the first things you should get for your puppy is a high-quality collar and leash, ideally before bringing them home. A collar helps you manage your energetic pup and holds their ID in case they get lost. Paired with a leash, it allows you to start training and taking walks without fear of them running off.
From day one, Echo was a little explorer. We made sure he had a good-quality leash and collar, with an ID tag for safety. Walking him became our daily routine, and he quickly learned to stay by my side. Those early walks helped Echo burn off that puppy energy and start to learn his boundaries.
When buying a collar, make sure it fits perfectly. You should be able two fingers between it and their neck, but it should also be tight enough that it won’t slip off if pulled.
7. Gates and Playpen
If you don’t want your pup running wild all over the house, especially when he’s little and curious (and a little clumsy), baby gates are the best way to go. You can slowly introduce him to different areas of your house. A playpen can also give your pup space to play safely while we got some downtime.
8. Grooming Essentials
Try to groom your dog once a week. If your pup isn’t a fan of bath time, have a treat ready to reward them afterward. Regular grooming not only keeps your dog looking great but also makes the process smoother for both of you over time. Below are some of our absolute favs for Echo’s weekly grooming sessions.
9. Potty Training Tools
Accidents happen, but puppy pads and a potty bell hanging by the door works wonders. It might take your pup a few tries, but eventually, he figured out that ringing the bell meant he’d go outside. Even with regular trips outside, your new puppy will have accidents during potty training. Puppy pads are perfect for protecting your floors during this stage. Don’t forget to clean up any messes quickly to prevent lingering odors.
10. Treats & Goodies
We quickly discovered that Echo is highly motivated by treats. A clicker paired with small treats helped reinforce good behavior, like sitting or staying. The key was consistency, and Echo caught on quickly. Those little training sessions became bonding moments for us, too. Here are a few on Echo’s absolute favorite treats.
11. Doggie Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Dental health is crucial for dogs. Start brushing their teeth early with a dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste to prevent plaque buildup. It’s always a good idea to start keeping those canines clean pretty early and keeping up with good dental hygiene for your puppy.
12. Love & Patience
Through all the chewing, accidents, and sleepless nights, Echo stole our hearts. Raising a puppy is a rollercoaster, but the love and joy they bring makes it all worth it. With patience and the right essentials, your pup can become a happy, well-adjusted part of the family.
If you’re welcoming a new puppy soon, these essentials will help your furry friend adjust and thrive. Trust me, with a little prep and a lot of love, the puppy phase will be full of memories you’ll cherish forever. Echo is proof that with the right start, your pup will quickly become your best buddy.
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