Puppy Prep: Essential Items for a Smooth Start. Part 2

Bringing a new puppy home is exciting! To make their arrival, and your first few weeks together, as smooth as possible, it's wise to have some essential items ready before they even walk through your door. Being prepared not only makes things easier for you but also helps your puppy settle into their new environment quickly and comfortably.

Must-Have Puppy Essentials

Here's a checklist of key items to get before your puppy arrives:

• Food and Water Bowls: Opt for stainless steel or other non-toxic, non-breakable options. For water, choose a bowl that's heavy and large enough to prevent spills from an enthusiastic puppy.

• Puppy Food and Treats: Select a balanced puppy food with high-quality protein and no artificial additives. For treats, consider natural options like dried meats. Be cautious with dried liver, as large amounts can cause diarrhea in puppies.

• A Comfy, Chew-Proof Bed: A dedicated, safe space for your puppy to rest and feel secure.

• 2-3 Dog-Specific Toys: Choose durable toys that your puppy can't easily chew up when unsupervised (e.g., rope toys, fillable rubber toys, dog puzzles). Keep one or two special, less durable toys for supervised playtime with you.

• Leash, Harness, and Name Tag: A non-retractable nylon leash, a 2-point harness (properly sized and material-suited for your puppy), and a name tag with your dog's name and your contact number on a collar. Microchipping is also highly recommended!

• Grooming Equipment: A brush suitable for your dog's breed and coat type, and a nail trimmer.

• Dog Towel and Mild Dog Shampoo: For post-walk rub-downs and occasional baths (aim for every 1-3 months with a mild shampoo like oatmeal).

• Parasite Control: A natural, non-chemical tick and flea spray is a good start. Your vet can advise on deworming based on fecal tests.

• Dog First Aid Kit: At a minimum, include tweezers for tick/splinter removal and a spare leash.

• A Playpen or Safe Area: A designated puppy-proof space for your puppy to stay in when you can't supervise them directly.

• Training Pads and Odour Eliminating Cleaner: Essential for managing toilet accidents and preventing repeat marking in the same spot.

Plan Ahead for Success

Beyond physical items, it's also helpful to have an idea of where your puppy will be sleeping, eating, eliminating, exercising, and training. Consider researching and identifying your ideal:

• Pet store

• Dog food supplier

• Veterinarian

• Pet insurance provider

• Groomer

• Doggy day-care

• Dog walker/pet sitter

Having these resources in mind will help you navigate the early days of puppy ownership with greater confidence. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a happy and healthy start for your new family member!

Contact me if you'd like me to help you prep for your puppy's arrival and we get you set up!