Congrats on the adoption of your new puppy or dog!

There are a few items that are essential to have before your new puppy/dog comes home.

*Collar and Leash – These come in a variety of different styles with an abundance of colors to choose from. For a puppy, you want a collar that can be adjusted while the puppy grows. A six-foot leash is a popular choice as well as extendable leashes that allow the dog more room to explore while you can still be in control.

*Identification Tags – These are a must new dogs and puppies are not used to you or where you live and the potential for them getting lost is very high be sure your new dog/puppy is always wearing his/her ID tag with your phone number on it.

*Toys – What dog or puppy doesn’t enjoy toys, there are so many to choose from but you don’t need to go over board, choose a few toys to start with like a plush toy, ball, food stuffable toy like a Kong and a rope. You can always get more later.

*Food and Water Bowls – Available in plastic, metal and ceramic, choose whichever you prefer but have one for both water and food.

*Chews – Puppies and adult dogs enjoy chewing so it’s important that they have appriout items to chew on, Pig Ears, Bully Sticks and any chew to promote clean teeth is a good choice.

*Grooming tools – Every dog must be groomed even if they have a short coat. A pin brush, comb, nail clippers, ear cleaner, natural shampoo made for dogs, dog toothbrush and tooth paste is a good place to start.

*A bed – A soft and fluffy bed is what most dogs enjoy, choose something that looks comfortable to you.

*Training Treats – Training starts the moment you bring your new family member home, training treats are great for rewarding good behavior and for teaching new behaviors and tricks.

*Stain and Odor Remover - Anticipate mistakes. Keep a bottle of enzyme cleaner on
hand for quick cleanup of potty mishaps.

*A good healthy food - There are a number of dry, canned and prepared raw diets on
the market today. Look for those that use all human grade ingredients, with no chemical
preservatives, additives or by-products. High quality food may be more expensive but you can save that money by having a healthy dog.