A puppy starter kit is just what you need before you welcome home a puppy. Getting a puppy can be the most exciting and rewarding experiences in anyone’s life. However, those who have had pets before also know that things can get a bit overwhelming, at least in the beginning. A puppy checklist or starter kit can help you prepare for your fur-baby’s arrival. Let us take a look at the contents of an ideal puppy starter pack irrespective of whether you are bringing home a pug or a Rottweiler puppy.
Puppy checklist
Puppy crate
Crate training is an essential part of training a puppy. Get a crate that is just the right size for your pup. Too big and your puppy will use the crate as a toilet; too small and your pet would soon outgrow it. You can bring a larger crate and use blocks to section off the crate. Please read my articles on tips for buying crates and also ways to crate train your fur baby.
Food and water bowls
Your puppy will need sturdy bowls to eat and drink from. Select bowls based on your dog’s physical characteristics. Puppies and dogs with flattened faces like pugs eat most comfortably from shallow bowls. Long nosed dogs on the other hand can feed comfortably from deeper bowls. Dogs with long ears must have bowls with steep sides to prevent their ears from dipping in the food or water. Never use plastic bowls for pets. Always buy stainless steel or metal bowls.
Puppy food
Always consult a breeder or a vet before ticking this item off the puppy checklist. Never experiment with food until you know what your pet is comfortable eating. Dogs can develop severe allergies to ingredients in commercial and homemade foods. In the beginning your pet will need very specific starter food. Top brands of dog food sometimes give away freebies to new pet owners. These free puppy starter kits contain dry food or kibble, a can of wet food to mix into dry food and also a puppy care checklist manual. Visit the link provided to avail of these freebies.
Dog treats
Treats are very useful while training your pet. Choose treats that are safe for your puppy and devoid of allergens. You can also use carrot sticks, pieces of boiled chicken and bits of apple for treating your pet during training. It is important that your pet likes the treat in order for the training to be effective.
Dog bed
Unless you want your puppy to sleep on your bed, you may want to buy a dog bed. Crate can also be useful if you want your pet to sleep alone in another room. Some dog owners prefer keeping the crate in their room at night. This way, your puppy can see you through the night. Here are some dog bed reviews for you to consider. I have also discussed some tips on ways to keep your puppy from crying at night.
Collar
Always keep your dog with a collar and tag. This can help you find lost dogs quickly; should a mishap occur. Your puppy will need a small, light puppy collar which you must replace as your pet grows. Choose a style your pet is comfortable with. Smooth, rolled leather collars are best as they will not pull on your pet’s skin or hair as nylon collars tend to do. Always choose a collar for comfort and not for style. Greyhound type breeds do well with wide flat collars which do not harm their sensitive necks. Always choose a collar having width exceeding the width of one of the neck vertebrae. Avoid collars that tighten when the dog pulls on it. When you fix a collar around your pet’s neck, ensure that you can slip 2 fingers in it between the collar and the neck.
Tags
ID tags with basic contact information can help people get in touch with you if your pet is lost. You can also go in for fancy and colorful tags and bands such as these from AKC puppy pack.
Harness and halters
As your puppy grows and you start taking it out on walks you need to buy harnesses or halters. These prevent pup from pulling you during the walk –actions which can harm you and your pet. Harnesses are gentler on the pet’s body and prevent neck problems.
Grooming kit
Your pet’s grooming kit must contain nail clippers, combs and brushes. Scissors are needed to trim excess fur around the ears, paws and the belly. For dogs who shed heavily, use a shedding comb that captures fine hair. Cocker spaniels, golden retrievers and other long haired dogs also need de-matting tools to remove and prevent mats. You also need to stock up on shampoos, powders and sprays to prevent ticks, fleas and mites in your pet. Always buy vet or breeder recommended products for grooming your pet.
Toys
A bored dog is a destructive dog. Keep your pet occupied with plenty of chew toys, rubber toys, rope toys and balls.
Dog license
Most cities require you to get a license for your dog within 30 days of its turning 4 months old. For this, you can download licensing forms off the internet. You also need to show copies of your pet’s vaccinations and spaying/neutering record for your pet.
Old towels/blankets
Your pet will need some towels and blankets in the first few days. Old towels will help you mop up accidents. You can also lay these old towels or sheets inside his basket or crate.
Newspapers
You will need tons of newspapers for housetraining your puppy. I have covered some important basics of housetraining in this guide. Later, when you start taking your pet outdoors for walks, carry poop bags to discard dog waste.
We hope this brief guide on puppy starter kit helps you. Good luck and enjoy your new pet!