What do I need before welcoming a puppy into my home?
Caring for a puppy can be an expensive business. Here’s a checklist of the essential equipment you’ll need:
A crate and bed
The dog bed should be big enough for your puppy to stretch out and grow into. Crates can help with training and offer a place where a small puppy can feel secure during the night or when you’re not home, and some soft blankets will add comfort.
Bowls and food
The size of your food and water bowls will depend on the size of the puppy. It’s a good idea to buy the same puppy food that it’s been fed previously as any big changes in diet could upset its stomach. Treats can also be a helpful reward when it comes to toilet training.
A collar with a tag
ID tags are required by law in case your dog gets lost. An adjustable harness with a retractable lead is ideal for walks – it’s important to choose one that’s suitable for small puppies.
Puppy pads and poo bags
Puppy pads are super absorbent and help to prevent accidents while toilet training. No dog owner should be without poo bags on a walk.
Puppy-safe toys
Dog toys can include balls, chew toys, interactive toys and soft toys – you could give your puppy a range to choose from so it can pick its favourite.
A car restraint
Dogs should be securely restrained in a car by law, and you’ll need a guard or harness that will keep yours safe.
Shampoo and brush
You’ll find dog shampoos that are designed for the more delicate skin of puppies. Most canines only need to be bathed every couple of months, but some have a habit of rolling in smelly things outside and may need more frequent baths.
Dog toothpaste and toothbrush
Brushing your pooch’s teeth can help to prevent gum disease. Puppies can get used to having their teeth cleaned if the habit is started early.
How do I prepare for a new puppy?
Puppy care isn’t just about getting the right equipment – it’s also about making their future home a welcoming and safe environment. The tips below will help you ensure your space is ready:
- Your crate should be placed in a quiet and draft-free area. Taking a blanket or toy from the breeder’s home can help your puppy settle in as it will smell familiar.
- You’ll need to decide where your puppy will eat – this should be away from the sleeping area. Securely storing food away from little claws and teeth is also advisable.
- If you want to section your home off, you can buy and install baby gates.
- Your garden should be free of gaps in fences, poisonous plants or other outdoor hazards.
- Each room that your new arrival will be allowed into should be puppy-proofed, with hazards such as breakable ornaments, cables, cleaning products and toxic houseplants out of reach.
- Your vet can advise you about jabs or treatments that your dog may need, such as worming medication.
- Local training classes and socialisation groups are also worth considering.
Caring for a puppy is a lot of fun, but it can also be a steep learning curve. If you get the basics right, you’ll give your new addition the best chance of a happy and healthy life in a loving home. Take a look at what to expect in your puppy’s first year to learn more about their development stages. Whatever the years ahead have in store, you find all the pet accessories your pup will need on Gumtree.