What to get for a new puppy

There are a couple of thing that you should get for a new puppy to ensure a smooth transition.  These include dog food, dog bowl, dog collar and leash, dog bed, dog crate and a dog toy.  Try to get the same brand of dog food as what the breeder uses.  And buy a dog bowl, dog bed and dog crate that would be big enough for your dog when fully grown.  You don’t need to spend too much on the bed; just a blanket or cushion will do fine.  But try to get a decent dog crate because you will use it to carry your puppy around a lot (mostly to the vet or dog groomer).  The size of the crate should be big enough for the dog to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably.  Besides making travel safer, the dog crate also doubles as a shelter for your dog and will be useful in housebreaking.  Another thing you need to do in before getting a dog is to puppy proof your home to provide a safe environment for your dog.

What to get for a new puppy - Puppy Proofing

Puppies, like toddlers, have a tendency to find the most dangerous objects.  You need to puppy proof your house to give your puppy a safe environment.  Have a look at the list of potentially dangerous items below and think about how you can protect your puppy from them.

• Rocking chairs can seriously hurt your puppy if you accidentally roll over him. 
• Reclining chairs can trap a curious puppy.  
• Electrical cords: Puppies love to chew on these.  Prevent damage to your home and puppy by tying up loose electrical cords and running cords through cable wraps or plastic pipes.  
• Stairs: Your puppy can slip and hurt themselves.  Place baby gates so the puppy doesn’t have access to the stairs.  This will also help contain your dog in a manageable area.
• Trash Cans: Cover trash cans with heavy lids. Your dog will dig into your trash cans for food.  You don’t want him eating rotten leftover food or play with your sanitary supplies.
• Medication and human food: Always store dog medication, dog food and human food in places where your dog cannot access – the higher the better.  You’ll be surprised how smart your dog is when it comes to stealing food.
• Fireplace: Fairly obvious one.  Fence off your fireplace.

What to get for a new puppy - First couple days

You will need to bring your new dog to a veterinarian the first few days after you bring him home, so it’s best if you find a veterinarian clinic or veterinarian hospital ahead of time.  You will be visiting the veterinarian hospital regularly for the next 15 years.  Try to find one that is close to your home that offers all the services you need (emergency services, vaccinations, surgery, medical diets, boarding), and get familiar with its staffs.  The vet will give your dog an examination and initial vaccinations and you should be advised when to go back for booster shots.  You can learn more about dog vaccination to understand better how to care for a dog.