New dog shopping list

We understand that preparing for your new pup can be overwhelming, so we’ve prepared this shopping list to help you get ready. Don’t worry— you’re not required to purchase everything on this list. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask!

The Basics
  • Collar (We prefer Martingale, no-slip collars)
  • Gentle Leader or harness (We recommend the premiere easy-walk for pullers, available on amazon.com for around $15)
  • ID tag
  • Food and water dishes (We recommend stainless steel or ceramic)
  • Dog food (Dogs under the age of 10 months should be on puppy food. We recommend a wheat and soy-free food free of by-products) Recommended brands: Innova, Evo, Taste of the Wild, Solid Gold, Orijen, Acana, California Natural, Natural Balance, Blue Buffalo, The Honest Kitchen, and more. We highly discourage the following brands: Iams, Alpo Dog Food, Beneful, Bil Jac Dog Food, Diamond Dog Food, Good Life Recipe, Kibbles ‘n Bits Dog Food, Pedigree, Purina, Science Diet, Tuffy’s, Ol’ Roy.
  • Crate and liner/bed (Select size based on dog’s adult size and weight)
  • Crate water bottle or dish
  • Carpet cleaner (We recommend Nature’s Miracle)
  • Flea and tick preventative (e.g., Frontline, Advantix)
  • Heartworm preventative (Prescription, available from your vet)
  • Dog bed

Training
  • Training rewards treats
  • Chew deterrent (e.g., Bitter Apple or Yuck)
  • Treat pouch (Often recommended for obedience classes)

Toys & Miscellaneous
  • Kong toy (For chewing and keeping dogs occupied in their crate. We recommend stuffing it with peanut butter, applesauce, yogurt and/or pumpkin, along with some treats or kibble, and freezing. These will keep your dog/puppy entertained for at least 1 to 2 hours, sometimes more)
  • For puppies: Teething chew toys (e.g., Chilly Bone or Ruff Puppy teethers)
  • Long-lasting chew bones (e.g., Nylabones, natural bones, marrow bones)
  • Clean-up bag dispenser for leash (e.g., Bags on Board)
  • Food dish placemat (To catch spills, protect floors)
  • Pet record folder (To hold pet records, vaccinations certificates, etc.)
  • Dog behavior or training book

Grooming Supplies
  • Dog brush
  • Nail clippers (We recommend having your dog’s nails clipped at the vet or groomers to avoid accidents)
  • Dog shampoo
  • Ear cleaner
  • Grooming wipes (For between bath cleanups)
  • De-matting comb (For longer-haired dogs)
  • De-shedding tool (e.g., Furminator)

Travel
  • Dog seatbelt harness (Can use regular harness and put seatbelt through it)
  • Car seat covers (Such as this one by AKC) or doggie hammock (To protect seats and catch dirt and fur)
  • Travel collapsible food and water bowls
  • All-purpose dog blanket