The excitement of adding a new dog
Acquiring a dog may be the only opportunity a human ever has to chose a relative.
-Mordecai Siegal-
Basic dog supplies
The variety of items available for dogs is HUGE! It can be difficult figuring out what you need just to get started with your new addition. Here are a few basics to consider.
1. The crate
Dog Crates to Consider
NOZTONOZ Sof-Krate Indoor/Outdoor Pet Home, Model N2-36
*Soft crates are only recommended for dogs who are crate trained. Untrained dogs and puppies can easily destroy a soft crate.
2. The dog bowls
I find the stainless steel bowls are easy to clean and resistant to puppy teeth that want to chew on everything. The downside is they make a lot of noise when your new dog decides to drop it down the steps.
Plastic bowls tend to be the cheapest to buy so if they are destroyed, it won't kill your wallet. Some dogs are sensitive to the plastic and may end up with dermatitis on their nose and muzzle.
Ceramic bowls are heavy so can be good for dogs who like to redecorate, but they can fall and break, leaving you without a bowl.
3. A collar and a leash
There are several different types of collars and harnesses to choose from.
-A basic flat collar is a good one to start with. It is a collar that can stay on your dog with his ID. I prefer the nylon collars with the quick-release snap to the ones with the buckles. I find them easier to put on and off, plus they are adjustable so I don't have to worry about getting the wrong size. These type of collars come in heavy nylon or cotton. Leather collars come as buckle collars. I have found the nylon or leather is the best.
-Training collars are an option some people take, but they are not collars that should be left on your dog. They can be dangerous if they get caught on something because they don't release. They should also be fitted by someone who is familiar with how they are used so it would be best to take your dog with you when buying one.
-Some people might not consider a harness, but they are one option to consider, especially for small dogs as they don't put pressure on their trachea. Some people are concerned their dog will pull more on a harness. Pulling is a training issue and most dogs who will pull on a harness will pull on any type of collar, so I wouldn't rule them out.
4. Dog food
Books to help you get ready
The Joy of Dogs
In The Doghouse
Let me know if you found the information helpful or please share any tips you may have.
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Reply
- calicoskies calicoskies Aug 14, 2009 @ 8:45 pm
- Love this lens! Dogs are awesome!!! :0)
Let the world know you're a proud dog parent
Now Have Some Fun!
by dazsgeo
I've loved animals all my life and have been very lucky to work with them as a veterinary technician, a dog groomer, a customer service rep for a pet...
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