Getting Ready for Your New Dog

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The excitement of adding a new dog

You're adding a new member to the family and everyone is excited. A new dog often comes with big expectations. Whether you are expecting a new pup or an adult dog happy to be given a second chance, being prepared is the best way to set yourself up for success. Don't worry if your new friend has already joined your household; it's never to late.

Acquiring a dog may be the only opportunity a human ever has to chose a relative.

-Mordecai Siegal-

Basic dog supplies 

Bowls, crates, collars, leashes, bed, sweaters, food...

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

A dog crate is one item that will make your life a little easier. It provides a safe place for the puppy to go when you can't keep an eye on him. It will also help in house training. There are several different styles of crates- wire crates, plastic crates and fabric crate.

Dog Crates to Consider 

Petmate Traditional Kennel Intermediate, Light Gray

Amazon Price: $26.15 (as of 11/26/2009) Buy Now

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.

Amazon Price: $74.78 (as of 11/26/2009) Buy Now

Pedic Crate Mat - 41" X 26" X 2" - Tan/natural

Amazon Price: $12.70 (as of 11/26/2009) Buy Now

Four Paws Kozy Crate Sleeper Mat

Amazon Price: $8.49 (as of 11/26/2009) Buy Now

 

2. The dog bowls

You only need 2 so this should be an easy decision, right? Metal, plastic or ceramic? Low, tall, for long-eared dogs? How do you decide?

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

At some point, you are going to take your new dog out into the public. A collar and leash will help keep him under control.

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

The most important item to have on hand is dog food. Diet plays a big part in your dog's health so chose the best quality food you can afford. This helps explains what to look for in a good dog food- Choosing a Dog Food.

Books to help you get ready 

The Everything New Puppy Book: Choosing, raising, and training your new best friend (Everything Series)

Amazon Price: $10.85 (as of 11/26/2009) Buy Now

Dog Fancy (1-year)

Amazon Price: $13.00 (as of 11/26/2009) Buy Now

Whole Dog Journal

Amazon Price: $20.00 (as of 11/26/2009) Buy Now

Dog World (1-year)

Amazon Price: $15.00 (as of 11/26/2009) Buy Now

The Joy of Dogs 

CIMG2357 by Aine D

CIMG2357

Wut I did rong? by Noah Sussman

Wut I did rong?

Pitbull by Photos8.com by Photos8.com

Pitbull by Photos8.c...

Our New Pillow 1 by adjustafresh

Our New Pillow 1

Our New Pillow 3 by adjustafresh

Our New Pillow 3

Our New Pillow 2 by adjustafresh

Our New Pillow 2

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In The Doghouse 

Let me know if you found the information helpful or please share any tips you may have.

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Now Have Some Fun! 

Training can help with bonding and trick training is fun so it is a great place to start.

101 Dog Tricks: Step by Step Activities to Engage, Challenge, and Bond with Your Dog

Amazon Price: $12.91 (as of 11/26/2009) Buy Now

The Only Dog Tricks Book You'll Ever Need: Impress Friends, Family--and Other Dogs!

Amazon Price: $9.95 (as of 11/26/2009) Buy Now

Dog Tricks: Eighty-Eight Challenging Activities for Your Dog from World-Class Trainers

Amazon Price: $10.17 (as of 11/26/2009) Buy Now

How to Teach Your Old Dog New Tricks

Amazon Price: (as of 11/26/2009) Buy Now

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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