Essential Dog Supplies and Other Important Things New Pet Owners Need to Know

You cannot contain your excitement as the day that you finally bring your new dog home draws near. You are tempted to buy your household's new member with treats and toys and other stuff that you believe will make him feel welcome.

But before you splurge your hard-earned money on dog supplies, it is good to know which items you should have ready prior to your pet's arrival and which ones you can purchase later on.

One of the first things that you need to buy is food for your new dog. However, do not just buy any dog food that you find on the grocery shelves or online. Instead, ask your canine's caretakers about the specific brand of food he is currently eating.

Why is this information crucial?

Pet owners need to be aware that moving a dog into a new home can be a stressful situation for the animal. As such, you will want to slowly ease your pet into his new environment and minimise the changes he has to face.

During the first few days that your furry little pal spends in your new home, he needs to eat the same food that he has been eating. You may want to switch him to a different brand, but now is not the time. Making the switch to another dog food brand can only make the situation more stressful for your pet which can lead to gastrointestinal problems. You can try a different pet food after consulting with your vet.

Another essential item you will need to purchase is a crate. Crates are highly useful for training and housebreaking new pets in a household. Plus, if you bring home a puppy, the crate can be his safe haven when you go out of your home. Plus, dogs are den animals. That simply means that they are comfortable and actually seek out dark and small spaces.

Other essential supplies that you need to buy before your pooch arrives include a collar and a leash, dog bed, food and water bowls, treats, grooming supplies, identification, and toys.

But apart from knowing which supplies to buy, there are a few things that you need to decide on or do.

For one, you have to pet-proof your home, especially if it is your first time to bring a dog home. That means relocating or completely removing from your house all items that may be harmful to your pet or those that your new pet can chew and destroy.

You should also decide who will be your new pooch's primary caregiver/s. Remember, your new addition to the household needs to be fed, played with, given a bath, and walked outdoors to do his business. Deciding upon this matter before the arrival of your new family member will ensure that he gets the care and attention he needs and helps prevent bickering, especially among the young members of the family.