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