New puppy shopping list Part 1

We are so excited to bring you your first pet!

We know you will give him a good home.

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Veterinary Care

Before receiving your puppy, you should research local veterinarians to find someone you're comfortable with and trust. Finding a veterinarian who communicates well and understands your and your family's needs is critical.

Veterinarians handle all your puppy's vaccinations, exams, & spay/neuter. They are also there to advise you when you're struggling with training or feeding and take care of you both when your furry friend isn't feeling well.

Look for a clinic that can work with your schedule and save their emergency phone number in your phone for after-hours.

Feeding

Kibble

We love Valu-Pak Puppy food. Because it is corn, wheat, soy, and gluten-free, our dogs enjoy better health and are less likely to suffer from obesity. It also has no added dyes.

"Feed puppies food moistened with warm water three times a day until six months old, then twice a day until nine months old. If fed dry, Valu-Pak Free 28-20 Dog Food may be kept before the puppies at all times. The amount fed should be sufficient to maintain steady optimal growth and weight but not so much as to stimulate excessive growth and/or weight gain at an early"

Buying from a local dealer is always the best route, but some people are less fortunate and don't have a local dealer. You may check here (be sure to click the Valu-Pak filter)

Shipping a 50 lb bag across the country is expensive, but Valu Pak makes an excellent feed, so it can be worth it to have it shipped.

If you decide to purchase another brand, look for a puppy food that is grain free, includes meats, and is preferably organic to ensure better health.

We will send enough Valu Pak for you to switch over slowly.

Feeding Station

We include small bowls for food and water to get you started while they are small, But as they grow, you will want to purchase larger ones and perhaps more sophisticated ones.

Simple bowls with wider bottoms and anti-skid is an excellent choice.

Or you may want a bulk feeder, so you don't have to worry about them running out of food or the kids forgetting to feed them.

This feeder is what we use, and we have never had problems with obesity because of the quality of dog food and the amount of exercise they receive. They have full access to a large yard with plenty of room to run and play with the children.

You may like the bulk feeder but are concerned that your lifestyle or feed needs a more regulated diet. This feeder is a great entry-level automatic feeder. It also has the benefit of looking a little more classy indoors.

And while we are on automatic feeders, a water fountain ensures your puppies are never out of water. I highly recommend this if you live in hotter climates or your puppy gets a lot of play and exercise.

Puppy Treats

Puppy treats are essential for training and fun, helping build a stronger bond between you and your puppy.

When choosing training treats, you must pick small ones that can be given numerous times a day and be sure they are rated for their size and age.

You can also pick out some other treats for fun or specific times.

We bought some special treats when we first received our basset, who was one year old, to help her adapt to her new home. We gave them to her for car rides and when we would be gone for a long time at church or shopping.

Last but not least, pill pockets can be super helpful if you have to give them anti-nausea medicine or any other non-fun stuff.

Collar, ID tags, and Leash

You can have a blast with these, as so many options are available! You can go cute or classy, cheap or fancy. You can even purchase several different ones for different occasions.

When looking for items, be sure to think of quality. Having your collar and tags fall off is one of the worst things. Having your puppy microchipped will help prevent any worse-case scenarios. You will still need a tag for your little friend, in any case. It should include their name and phone number since only vets and shelters can read microchips.

Since Microchips are not trackers, consider adding a tracker to your pet's collar in case they get out sometime. Having a tracker adds much peace of mind.

Crate & Bed

Crates

Crates are an essential training tool. They also provide your puppy with a place to sleep, a safe space to go if he's feeling anxious, and keep your puppy out of trouble while you are not home.

Getting a large crate from the start is tempting, especially if you know your puppy will grow into a large dog. For training purposes, however, starting small is better; you want your puppy to have just enough room to stand up and turn around. When potty training, puppies are less likely to make a mess in their crate if they don't have enough space to avoid it. Also, puppies will feel more secure if their crate isn't too large.

This crate is great because it has a divider, so you can buy the size you need and make it fit as it grows.

Beds

Dog beds are more than a cozy spot for a daytime nap. Like many other items on this list, they can also serve as a training tool.

Covers

Crate covers provide privacy, security, and comfort.

They block distractions for better sleep and fulfilling their instinctual needs & desires, as recommended by Veterinarians, Breeders & Trainers.

Housing

If your dog is going to be outside, a dog hose is vital to keep them comfortable out of the elements. A plastic dog house with a floor, like this one, with an added door flap, is perfect.

Heated floor

Unless your outdoor dog house is exposed to pretty cold weather, a heated floor or heat pad is just a luxury, but dogs love to lay on them! So cozy!

Well, that is all I have time for today! Check back later for part two, discussing potty training, books, grooming, toys, and cleaning supplies.

Did I miss something, or have you tried any of these items? let me know in the comments below!

-MaryAnna Stover

Stover & Co.