New Puppy Care

Since the first few weeks of puppy parenthood can get quite hectic, it’s important to plan in advance for the arrival of your new pet. If possible, get as many necessities ready before your puppy comes home.

To make it even more convenient, all of these items can be purchased online. And I'll show you where. It doesn't get much easier than that!

These ebooks are a great source of information. And the best part is, they're available IMMEDIATELY, so you can get started with potty training and discipline right away.

How to Potty Train your Puppy in Seven Days

Sit Stay Fetch: Stop Your Dog's Behavior Problems

And for those times when you can't get home to let the puppy out, try Wizdog, a revolutionary indoor dog potty.

• Puppy crate: Even if you don't plan on crate training your dog, consider the benefits of owning a crate for other reasons, like transporting an ill or injured puppy to the veterinarian.

• Food and water bowls: Bowls should be low and shallow for puppies. And if the bowls are tip-proof, even better. It's likely you'll need to upgrade to larger dishes as your pet grows bigger.

• Food: Choose an age-appropriate food. If you're not sure what kind to purchase, ask your vet or local pet store for recommendations. Remember that high quality dog food keeps your puppy healthier and happier.

• Collar: Pick a collar that fits properly now. You can always upgrade later if necessary.

• Leash: A six-foot lead works well. Choose the right thickness and strength for your dog. A Chihuahua's needs are very different from the needs of a Rottweiler.

• ID tag: As one of the first things people search for when finding a stray dog, an ID tag can help make sure your puppy makes it home safely. At a minimum, have your phone number engraved on the tag.

  For a great selection, see my About Dog ID Tags page.

• Grooming supplies: Different breeds require different levels of grooming. However, every pup can benefit from a good weekly brushing. It’s also a great way to have quiet, bonding time with your new dog.

• Housebreaking supplies: Even adult dogs have accidents, so be prepared with good cleaning supplies.

  Items as simple as newspapers, papertowls and cleaning products work fine. Or, you can take it a step farther and try something like Wizdog, a housebreaking system created specifically for dogs.

• Veterinarian: If you don't have a favorite vet already, ask family, friends and neighbors for a recommendation. Have an appointment scheduled within the first few days of bringing your puppy home, so your vet can check for worms, other health conditions, and start her vaccination regimen.

• Flea control. Most products are safe on puppies as young as 12 weeks old, but be sure to check before applying.

  Did you know you can purchase flea control medications like Advantage, Frontline, and Program via the internet now...without a vet's prescription? It's now easier than ever to protect your puppy with the best pet meds around.

  I comparison shopped and discovered that EntirelyPets.com offers the best prices around for dog medications. See for yourself!

The Extras

• Pet insurance. Owning a dog can be an expensive investment. If your puppy ends up needing extensive veterinary care, owning pet health insurance can be very beneficial.

• Obedience classes: Every dog can benefit from learning some basic obedience skills. You'll love having a pup that listens to you and your puppy will love making you happy!

• Puppy treats: Yummy treats are the perfect reward when you’re working on obedience. Or for when they’re just being adorable. These shouldn't even be an option; everyone loves a yummy treat!

• Puppy toys: Chew toys help satisfy your new puppy’s teething needs. If you’d like to teach your dog to retrieve, look at purchasing a few balls, but make sure they’re not so small that your dog chokes. A lot of people swear by Puppy Kong, an awesome rubber toy you stuff with treats to keep your new pal busy.

• Sour apple spray: Use this deterrent for naughty puppies that love to chew. It won't ruin your stuff, but dogs don't like the bitter taste.

• Doggie gates: If you want to keep your dog in one area of your house, set up doggie gates to corral him. These work especially well when you're potty training your puppy.

• Dog house: If your pup will spend any time outdoors, he’ll love having his own little house. Fill it with great chew toys and a cozy blanket, and it will be the perfect home away from home.

• Doggie door: Training your puppy to use a dog door when she needs to go outdoors makes life easier for you and your pal.

• Clothing: Depending on where you live, sweaters or snow boots may be required outdoor gear for your dog. Or you may just want to get some puppy bling and dress him up in the coolest duds around.

  Though a tutu just doesn't look right on my Aussie Shepherd, I've seen a lot of fun items at PawPrintzBoutique.com

I know this seems like a lot of stuff, but I'll give you a hint...nearly every item on this list can be found in one place online. So if you're the King or Queen of one-stop-shopping, then shop at Petco.com. My mom tipped me off that she can get puppy food, Advantage, and anything else she wants for her Schnauzer puppy, Danny, right there. Have fun shopping!

Now that you have the new puppy care basics on hand, don't forget the most essential items for your friend: lots of hugs, kisses, and sweet talk. Best of all, they're free!

"Money will buy a pretty good dog but it won't
buy the wag of his tail."
Josh Billings


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