When bringing a new dog or puppy home for the first time, there are certain things every owner should have on hand from day one.
 
After you have had your new pet for a few days, you will have a better idea of the things you absolutely need and the types of things you do not feel will bed used.
 
Here are 12 must-have items every new dog will need. 
 
1. Bedding
Your new dog needs a comfortable bed, so buy a bed big enough for it to grow into, and stretch out in. 
 
2. Bowls for food and water
You will need separate, non-slip bowls for food and water. These should be raised up off the floor for tall dogs. Make sure fresh water is always available for your pet.
 
3. Car harness, traveling crate or dog guard
A dog should travel either behind a dog guard, secured with a car seat harness or, ideally, in a crate or fixed car cage. A crate or cage gives a dog its own space and ensures both safety and comfort. 
 
4. Collars
Choose a comfortable collar that is suitable for the breed, size and age of puppy. Puppies grow rapidly and collars should be checked almost daily for condition and fit. These should not be so loose that they can slip over your puppy's head or so tight that you cannot slip two fingers underneath.
 
5. Grooming equipment
Short coated dogs need to be groomed regularly, especially when they are moulting as their short hairs get can get stuck into everything. Use a rubber toothed brush or a short bristle brush, which massages the skin and works out the loose hair. Breeds with medium to long coats or thick undercoats need gentle de-tangling every day to keep them knot free.

6. Identity disc
Be sure to inscribe your name and address on the collar or on a plate or disc attached to it. You may also want to put your telephone numbers on the tag, but you do not need to put your dog's name on it. Engraved discs are better than barrel types, which often undo and lose their contents. 
 
7. Leads
Choose a lead that is suitable for the size and breed of your puppy, not too long, too short or too heavy. A good rope lead is both strong and comfortable on your hands. Chain leads can hurt your hands, but may be useful if you have a puppy that likes to chew or carry its lead in its mouth. Whatever type you choose, make sure you attach it to the 'D ring' of the collar and not onto the split ring that attaches the identity disc to the collar, as this is not strong enough to take the weight of your dog.
 
8. Outdoor kennels and dog runs
Dogs are sociable animals and most of them prefer to live indoors, and can get pretty miserable if left outside. However, if your dog spends most of its time outside, then you need to provide it with an enclosed run and a specially designed kennel, or it will wreck your garden. Providing toys is particularly important if your puppy is left alone for periods of time. They can be useful in providing a space for the puppy to call its own.  It will also allow the dog to become less reliant on constant companionship and avoid separation anxiety in the future.
 
9. Poop scoop bags
You are required by law to clear up after your dog in public areas and dispose of the bag in an appropriate bin, so you will need a supply of poo bags, sandwich bags or nappy sacks to take with you whenever you are out with your dog. 
 
10. Dog shampoo
Dogs only need to be bathed every few months unless they have been swimming or have rolled in something smelly. Use a dog shampoo and put a non-slip mat down if using the bath. Towel drying your puppy is important and will get it used to being dried when it comes home wet from a walk.
 
11. Dog toothpaste and toothbrush
Gum disease is far too common in middle-aged dogs and can lead to all sorts of health problems, so it pays to brush your dog's teeth. Use special canine toothpaste, which comes in tasty flavours and does not foam (unlike human toothpaste) with a special rubber thimble for dogs' teeth.
 
12. Toys
It is very important that your dog has a range of appropriate and interesting toys to play with, otherwise it might chew on your things, instead of its own. Chew toys also provide mental stimulation, help to keep your dog's teeth clean and allow it to exercise its jaws. Select toys for your pet carefully - some may be too small and might choke your dog whilst other items might splinter.
 
Image via Pinterest.

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