The top ten essentials for your new puppy
Posted by Diana | Posted in General | Posted on 27-07-2010
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So you’re getting a new dog …but are you ready? If not, it’s ok! This article will help you choose all the important things your new dog will need.
1) A name – At the top of the list (if she or he doesn’t already have one) is a name. If you would like some ideas and inspiration, go to this site for a list of male dog names and female dog names.
2) A crate or cage – A crate is a sturdy container that can be used to safely carry and house your puppy. It should be big enough for your canine to stand up and turn around in. A number of people use a crate or cage to train their puppies and to provide them with a section that is their personal space.
3) A dog collar, tag and leash – these 3 things are a must for safety and identification. Check to see that a tag or other fashion of identification (containing the owner’s name, current residence and phone number) is firmly attached to your dog’s collar so that if your puppy runs away, it can be brought back to you. Also, for safety reasons, don’t walk them without a leash. Leashes come in a plethora of sizes and colors, including retractable leashes or ones with lights for night walking.
4) Dog food – many dog foods are made with cheap ingredients and innutritious fillers. You certainly want your dog to live a long, joyful life (and if you don’t want unnecessary veterinary bills), take measures to feed him or her a superior caliber dog food! See this article to inform yourself about dog food ingredients and find out how you can buy high quality food at affordable prices.
5) Water and food bowls – you can get them in all shapes and sizes. Separate water and food bowls are much more simple to fill than ones that are connected. There are some that are electronically operated so that your dog can be fed when you’re not at home. Look at your lifestyle and budget to guide your choice. A must is to ALWAYS leave your dog with an abundance of fresh water.
6) Dog treats and chews – canines love to chew (especially puppies) so it’s a great idea to give them something to chew on besides your shoes and other personal items. There are plenty of options – rawhide, freeze-dried meat and dental dog treats (like Greenies) are just some of them.
7) Dog brush – keep your dog looking great and minimize shedding by brushing her a few times per week. For bad shedders, products like the FURminator deshedding tool are really great at lowering the amount of hair your dog will leave around your home.
Flea and tick treatments – if you want to keep your house clear of fleas and ticks (and who doesn’t) it’s a good idea to treat your dog with a product that kills and repels for up to 30 days (such as those made by Frontline) or to use a dog collar that also repels these pests.
9) Dog bed – a dog bed will help your puppy sleep comfortably and also provide them with a space in your home that is their very own place. (It might also discourage them from trying to get onto your own bed!)
10) Dog toys – like dog treats and chews, dog toys will help prevent your dog from chewing the things you don’t want chewed! They’re also a great way to play with and exercise your pup, which helps prevent problem behaviors. Look for items that you can play fetch with or that will keep your dog active like the KONG dog toy that bounces in unpredictable directions.

