For some, owning a dog is just that – ownership. For others, it’s a life-long commitment to care for your best friend. Regardless of what camp you fall in, there are some basics you should have on hand before welcoming your canine companion into your home. Be sure to keep these eight things handy, so you can be ready for anything!
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#1. Dog Grooming Supplies
While most breeds only require weekly brushing, your pup might need a full-on grooming session. Even if the idea of snipping fur and scrubbing paws is not in your wheelhouse, you need to have supplies on hand to keep up with your dog’s needs.
Grooming supplies can be expensive, so you could also find a Christies Direct promo code to get a great deal on those supplies. After all, neglecting regular grooming is a good way to end up with a matted mess on your hands!
Most dogs don’t mind being groomed, but if yours does, you’ll need to invest in the right tools for the job. Look for a brush that’s suitable for your pet’s hair length, so it doesn’t get tangled or matted while brushing out snarls.
While some breeds require specially shaped brushes to get all the contours of their head, others simply need a good old-fashioned slicker brush!
#2. Dog Shampoo & Conditioner
In addition to toothpaste and shampoo for yourself, you should also have these essentials for doggy cleanliness. Be sure to pick the right shampoo based on what type of coat your pet has – short or long – so they don’t dry out their skin which can lead to irritation.
In addition, conditioners can help mend split ends and protect their coat. The shampoo and conditioner need to have the same pH as your dog to keep them safe and healthy!
#3. Dog Treats & Toys
Even though you might bring home a newly-bought dog that knows how to sit and stay perfectly on command, your pets will learn best through positive reinforcement.
And what better way to teach good behavior than with a crispy chicken strip. Treats can help your dog learn new tricks, so be sure to stock up on their favorites!
If you don’t mind the doggie smell that comes with plush toys or rawhide bones, they can provide hours of fun for pups looking for some extra chewing power.
#4. Dog Leash & Collar
Before you take your furry friend out on walks in public, there are some essential items to have on hand. Pooches need some form of identification at all times in case they get lost – having their name and contact information printed onto an adjustable collar will make this easy to accomplish.
You should also attach a leash while walking them around town because many pet-friendly businesses require dogs to be on a leash. There are so many options to choose from.
How do you know which leash and collar is the right choice for your pup? If you have a small, medium, or large breed of dog, then you must buy an appropriate size collar and leash.
A collar should be snug (but not too tight) around your dog’s neck with enough room between his/her throat and the end of the collar – if they can slip out of it easily, then it’s too loose and could lead to dangerous situations like choking or getting stuck in something.
#5. Dog First Aid Kit
Even the most well-trained pets can run into trouble when they get outside their yards. Things like stepping on broken glass, eating a poisonous mushroom, or being bitten by another animal are all possibilities.
Having a dog first aid kit nearby will ensure that you have the supplies needed to take care of your pet quickly should an emergency arise. A dog first aid kit will include hydrocortisone cream for bug bites, bandages, rubbing alcohol to clean wounds, and hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting if they swallow something dangerous.
#6. Vet & Animal Hospital’s Phone Numbers
Accidents happen – there might come a time when you need to board your dog at the vet while you’re out of town for work, or maybe an emergency comes up where you have to visit the hospital too! By keeping contact information for both handy in case something happens, you’ll save yourself a lot of stress.
Dog Insurance & License
Even if you don’t take your pet out anywhere but the backyard, they still need identification to prevent any potential animal control issues! A license is required by law in most areas, and it’s much cheaper than getting into an accident that results in thousands of dollars worth of damages or losing your beloved doggie because you couldn’t prove their identity.
Make sure to consider dog insurance as well; while not all breeds are perfect candidates for it, even healthy pets can suffer injuries that require medical attention later on down the road!
#7. Extra Bed & Blankets
While your new family member might prefer sleeping with you (at least at first), there will come a time when they want to settle down and rest on their own. Keep an extra dog bed in storage so you can bring it out whenever your pooch needs some alone time.
When choosing a bed for your dog, you’ll want to take into account a few things. The first is size – you’ll want to make sure the bed is big enough for your dog to stretch out on.
Second, consider the type of material the bed is made from. Some dogs prefer soft beds while others like something more firm. And finally, think about what type of climate you live in.
If it’s hot, you may want to get a bed that’s made from a breathable material like cotton. If it’s cold, a woolen blanket may be better suited for your pup.
#8. Food & Water Bowls
No matter what brand of food you buy or how much you spend, it all goes into the same bowl when serving! For this reason, having separate bowls for food and water is important – otherwise, leftover kibbles from breakfast will be floating around in water throughout the day and vice versa.
Pick up a set of stainless steel bowls that are easy to wash and won’t retain stains or odors over time. Now you’re ready to hit the town with your new furry best friend!
Every dog owner should have these eight things at their home before bringing a canine companion into their family. These items will ensure that you and your pet are well-prepared for anything – from emergency vet visits to thrifty shopping trips!
