Getting a new puppy is a big step for a new dog parent. No matter how much you think you’re ready for it, there’s always more to it than you ever imagined. From sharp teeth that eat your shoes to untrained bladders that lurk in corners throughout your house, a puppy is a handful, and you’ve got your work cut out for you. To make sure that you set yourself up for success, you’ll need to make sure you train your dog properly. Otherwise, you run the risk of behavioral issues down the road, like biting people or other dogs. Therefore, you should make sure to equip yourself with all the right tools. Therefore, here is the basic list of all the things you will need when you get home with your new pup to get you started. As long as you have these items and a whole lot of love and patience, it’s sure to be a great experience.
Poop Bags
Surprise! Puppies poop. They poop a lot. Your dog won’t be able to control where or when they do it initially, so it’s up to you to make sure you’re there to clean up the mess. Not only is it considered rude to leave your dog’s droppings sprinkled throughout the town, but it’s also a costly broken rule. Depending on where you live, you could receive a fine of hundreds. It’s so much simpler to carry around poop bags in your pocket or attached to your dog’s collar. Be sure always to have a few wherever you go.
Crate
Dogs are naturally den creatures since they evolved from the wolf. They instinctively won’t poop or pee in their own den. Therefore, recreating a den-like environment will help them learn to control their urges to go to the bathroom. Even though putting them in their crate may evoke feelings of guilt, they will grow to love it. The more trained they become, you’ll no longer have to close the door to their crate. They’ll go in all on their own with no fuss.
Dog Bed
Unless you’re planning on bringing your dog into your bed, you’ll need to get them a bed of their own. A dog bed gives them a comfortable space of their own where no one else can invade. Dogs need to know that just like you’ve got your own spaces of the house just for you, that they have a space of their own as well.
Dog Food
Obviously, your dog will need to eat. Consider buying high-quality food rather than the bottom of the shelf. Not only will their stools be less foul, but their coats and teeth will thank you for it.
Leash and Collar
A leash and collar are essential to ensure that your dog doesn’t slip away and hurt itself or get lost. Teaching them how to heel is a process, but with enough patience, you’ll see them through.