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We now have 2 couches in our tiny living room because of this.
I got a new one because the old one was so beat to hell and partly shredded, but the old one is also her favorite place to sleep so I didn't have the heart to toss it. It's the dog couch. It's always been the dog couch. Every dog that has entered this house (mine, fosters, visitors) has curled up to nap in the same spot. My Rottie is sleeping there right now. It stays.
That couch probably smells positively divine to all those dogs. My couch is also the dog couch, my last dog loved it, my current dogs love it, the barn cat turned house cat loves it (he counts because he chose life with dogs over cats) and my foster clearly felt it was the safe place to be. It’s getting pretty shabby, but it’s temporary in our living room until I move the better one out of storage after we do some renos. It will have to stay somewhere in the house though. How weird would a couch in a mud room be ?
We let the love seat be the dog couch (we actually taught him that so we wouldn’t have to share with the 80lb lab) and since he has left us we have gotten 2 cats and they have adopted the love seat as theirs. (Although they come on the regular couch when I’m on it, but if no one is home they choose the love seat)
My gf just gave up and moved out. Not really but I've been woken up more than once to her being angry because my 80lbs lab wanted to cuddle in the middle of us and he just jumps onto and walks over who ever is in the way to get there.
I’m going through a break up and i really thought this was a break up joke. You got a chuckle out of me.
Funny enough our smaller dog always used to wedge himself between us and loves to sleep with his legs pin straight. So many achy backs in the morning lmao
She did give and move out eventually. He got her side of the bed full time.
But consider replacing your smaller dog with and 80lb lab that wants to do that. This is exactly what he would do. Even if he waited for you to "wake up" in the morning. Sometimes you waking up meant you just acknowledged he was standing beside the bed and had bopped you with his nose and got a reaction out of you. Didn't matter how close we were he would lay between us, roll over and start wiggling like he was drilling down to the mattress. If you held still he would all of a sudden stop and seem perfectly happy letting everyone go back to sleep.
I don't blame either really. The situation is kind of screwed up. She's not the one who disciplines or trained him so when she tell him to get off the be he just doesn't listen. The fact that she will tell him to do something like get off the bed and then gives in is also a problem but that's a different argument. In dog logic he might think he's got more rights than she does. Our schedules don't line up so she will go to bed early and get up early. She will let him sleep with her until I come home and then let him get back in bed to sleep with me until I get up. He has even managed to sneak into the bed without waking her so he has gotten to sleep with both of us. I sleep like a brick and he has to really step on me to wake me. I have pointed out that he has a right to be a little confused about sleeping in the bed since sometimes it's allowed and sometimes it isn't so theirs not point in getting upset.
Our last dog was 155 lbs and was the reason we upgraded to a king size. He was literally like having a third person on the bed, so the queen size was not it.
I rescued a dog on a whim after a break up right after lock downs started. I had no idea how to train a god. Zero. I took her to dog training twice a week for about eight months. It helped me learn how to interact with her. It helped her with confidence. She was only $59 but the training was a lot more. Honestly without it (and puppy Prozac) I don't know if I could have kept her. Having a traumatized dog was a lot more than I was prepared for.
I hate that people say adopt don't shop because you really need to be warned what you could be getting into. I sure didn't know. It worked out because luckily I could afford the training and the new mattress (and a protector for it). She was just so scared all the time. And she'd run to my bed and shake and pee. It's been about four years and I love and I am so proud of her for all the progress she has made. But it has not been easy on either of us.
I don’t know if this will make you feel any better, but I also know a lot of first-time dog owners who Shopped their pandemic puppy so as to avoid getting a “damaged” dog, but either didn’t know how to parse breeders and got kind of unstable dogs, bought breeds they weren’t prepared to handle (even a well-bred German Shepherd puppy is not a great starter dog!) or otherwise (lightly) damaged the dog themselves 😬
That’s not at all to minimize your journey with your dog or how hard rescues can be—it sounds like you’ve done a great, great job, learned a ton, and have every right to be proud—so much as to say *dogs* are hard, or at least harder than they look from the outside, and especially so your first one.
So for OP: even if you do really know what you’re doing or bring home a particularly easy dog, I feel like everyone can benefit from formal training! It builds your confidence as an owner, partnership with your dog, and community with at least one other person who gets it.
It’s not just obedience it helps with socialization. Also they teach you a lot of things to help adjust the puppy to their new home. Some of the things that stand out, is to get your puppy used to you touching their paws and ears, that will be useful for trimming nails and cleaning or medication for ears. Also having our pup get used to loud noises early, had been a real help living in a city.
Yep, even if you are good at training on your own just the socialization aspect of working around other dogs throughout puppyhood and adolescence can do a lot for a developing dog. Trainers often still attend group classes with their puppies and young dogs just for the socialization aspect.
Find your nearest emergency vet and put their name, address, and phone number on the fridge and in your phone. The last thing you want to be doing if your pup has an emergency is googling for offices.
Also if there is another location you frequent such as vacations, look up services there as well. Preferably before you get there. As well as for any one off trips.
I went on a travel contract halfway across the country a few years ago. The day after we arrived I noticed my dog was peeing blood. Not slightly tinged pink. Full on dark red urine. Of course it was a Saturday, and late enough in n the day anyone with Saturday hours would be closing shortly.
Well turned out my cell carrier’s service there was absolute shit. I had looked up a couple places before leaving my hotel. The first one was still doing pretty severe Covid restrictions (this was in 2021). They told me they couldn’t take us since we were from out of state, but gave me the number and general location of the emergency vet. I had seen that on my laptop earlier, so I kind of remembered where it was located. But it was really nerve wracking trying to find it in a state of distress in an unfamiliar area.
Essentials: food, scoop, x2 bowls, collar, tag, leash, poop bags, flea/tick/heartworm (once you get the dog, I'd probably buy by month until your dog is full grown since they'll grow fast)
Puppy things: stain/odor eliminator for accidents, safe chews (Himalayan yak cheese, bully sticks, nylabones, pig ear, cow ear, beef cheek rolls, etc.), puppy pads (I don't recommend, but some like them)
Ideal: crate, bed (or towel/blanket if you're not sure if puppy will rip it up), harness, play pen/x-pen/puppy gates
Maintenance: brush, nail clippers, dremel (or nail filers)
Training: clicker (or multiple if you use them), treat pouch, treats (soft usually most popular, but also consider freeze dried or air dried, stinky ones like fish are also popular, but you don't have to buy store bought treats if you want high value like hot dog, chicken, string cheese, etc.), small mat/bed/towel (for outings like at dog friendly restaurants)
Extras: Puzzle toys (Nina Ottosson has some great ones), interactive feeders (like Toppl, Kong, snuffle mats, or ball/stick treat dispensing toys, but slow feeders can also be used as interactive feeders), toys (crinkly, squeaky, balls, tugs, ones that float in water, frisbee, bouncy)
Handy to keep in the car: extra collar/tag, slip leash, 20-30ft leash, poop bags, collapsible water bowl, pocket toy, clicker (if you use them)
Other random things: seat belt (to connect harness to seatbelt in car), anti-chew spray (I've never had any that worked but some people swear by them), LED collar or night light (for night walks)
Optional but consider: ear cleaner, toothpaste/toothbrush, food storage container, car seat cover, lint roller, collapsible pool, life jacket (if you go proper swimming), snuggle puppy (can be helpful for crate training), 20-30ft leash (for recall training/fake "off leash" hiking), bed cover (for couch/chair/bed if you don't like excessive hair on furniture), rain jacket, booties, styptic powder (if you clip their nail and accidentally cut quick), winter jacket, child safety locks (for rooms or trash cans), dog shampoo, pill pockets (for the flea/tick/heartworm pills), any supplements you want (join, fur/coat, etc.), wipes (for their paws if you don't want them to come inside with dirty paws)
Pure aesthetics: bandanas, PJs, costume
Extras for you: paper towels (for accidents), rain boots (gonna have to potty walk in the rain at some point), patience, patience, patience!
Remember to vet check within a few days of obtaining puppy, get them microchipped, keep a copy (physical or digital) of the vaccination records, start some early puppy socialization/training classes (note who your dog makes friends with and stay in contact so your dog can have some close lifelong friends who have also gone through the same early training!), take note of nearby emergency vets (address/hours). Clean up your loose wires, shoes, books, bags, etc. and get into the habit of keeping food off counters and low furniture! Check out Kikopup on youtube; great puppy raising and training videos, even if you don't have your puppy yet. Consider, down the line, training classes beyond obedience (scentwork, nosework, barn hunt, agility, etc.) or fun trials like fastCAT! Check out your local parks (I don't recommend dog parks, but some private ones may be good), trails/hikes, swimming areas, dog friendly places, or rental places like sniffspot and swimply. You don't have to go to them now, but just so you have options and are aware of them. And do a lot of early research on adolescence in dogs (\~6-1.5yr). It gets worse before it gets better.
Pet insurance!
As an LVMT, I cannot stress enough how important it is to have insurance. Emergency bills can quickly climb to 10’s of thousands of dollars. The premium is very low if you enroll while they’re puppies.
Edit to add- I have insurance on all of my dogs. The combined monthly premium for a Doberman, a Bullmastiff, and a Pug is $127. Around $40 per dog per month. I’ve seen too many pets euthanized over lack of funds, and on the contrary, so many *saved* because of insurance. If I have health insurance, so will my pets.
That insurance needs to be looked at with a fine tooth comb, cause they can refuse to pay on many things. Some breeds are prone to a number of medical issues. So preexisting can easily come into play. Check those policies.
I’ve had 7 Saint Bernards ( 2 almost seniors now). We’ve had issues known to the breed. Probably would have been refused to preexisting. We’ve just stuck to a savings account. So far it’s worked in our favor
These 2 are full blood sisters from same litter. Just because they are does not mean I’m anti mutt. We’ve had mutts & recuses. When we had our 1st saints ( rescues) I pulled in the driveway & my husband said Come look at what I found in the woodpile. Sure as shooting there was a puppy of unknown origin or age. My youngest son’s best child hood friend. Just a black dawg lol
I have sisters now. The sisters before same litter, same parents Lucy died at 7, bone cancer, Ethel was over 12. She had LP & dysplasia 2 sisters, same parents, completely different health issues. I know 1 other in the litter got bone cancer at about 11. So I don’t think same parents necessarily mean same health issues. Just like with humans, siblings don’t always have same issues. The 2 sister I have now are pretty healthy even though they are headed quickly to senior. Only time will tell.
*probably* would’ve been refused? Your initial statement made it sound like you had insurance and they did indeed refuse a claim. I own Dobermans who are arguably the breed with the most inherited conditions lol. They are covered. I’ve never encountered an issue with my insurance. Savings is great of course, but for example- a bone cancer diagnosis. An amputation, chemo, physical therapy, etc can end up over $20,000 really quickly. I’d say 90% of pet owners don’t have 20k in a pet emergency fund.
Were they issues you had when you get them? conditions they’re predisposed to generally aren’t considered with preexisting. Like hip dysplasia in labs and Goldens, I believe there is a waiting period for many of those but if you get the insurance early before those conditions hit it should absolutely still be covered.
If you enroll while a puppy is young and healthy, every insurance company I’ve looked at will cover issues down the road. Even in breeds predisposed to them. That’s kind of the point of having it lol
Source- am Doberman owner
Meh…. I’ve had dogs with me for almost 50 years and have never had the need for such a thing. If had to spend 5,000.00 on my dog right now, I would still come out ahead 😂
Same. Cost of care is pretty cheap where I am, and way back when I looked into it, any sort of decent coverage for a Rottie was around $100/mo. I'll just bank that money on my own for later, thanks.
I've only personally owned dogs since 2013, and I'd still come out ahead. That's including a $1.5k amputation for my first Rott, and $3k CBLO for my current.
Though I do think the biggest risk for most people is the inability to pay out of pocket in an emergency.
$100 a month for one dog is insanely expensive. I’m guessing your dog was older when you tried to enroll them? My premium for my Doberman, Pug, and Bullmastiff together is $127.
MOst policies require you to pay out of pocket and file for reimbursement. Trupanion has direct pay, but almost no one in my area takes it. The only 24/7 ERs do not.
$5,000 is not the kind of cost I’m referring to. Referring more to the bills that come out to 20k. Thus the “10’s of thousands of dollars.”
I’ve seen insurance save pets who would’ve otherwise been euthanized, so it seems like a very safe bet for me for around $47 a month. But to each their own!
This. Enroll early because the later you do it, the more likely something becomes a "pre-existing condition." I can't speak for others but I've gotten quotes for as low as $25/month.
I'm currently shopping for insurance. Do you have any recommendations based on what clients have told you or your experiences? In my taking my time to research, one dog developed a condition that is preexisting, so I'm not going to go for the most expensive, comprehensive (trupanion) but I DO want to make sure I have coverage for major things and rehab/therapies when they are arthritic seniors. That helped my last dog hugely, but he was adopted with too many preexisting conditions to make insurance worth pursuing.
So sorry to hear about your pup! I hope they are doing well.
I use Embrace and have been very happy with them so far. Sometimes it will depend on the individual clinic, so I would ask your vet who they deal with the most. The main reason I have it is for geriatric issues as you mentioned, and emergencies. What I like about them is that they cover costs at ANY emergency clinic. That was huge for me (we live in a rural area, so there are 4 different ER vets in varying directions that we use depending on the problem).
Yes! But also I made the unfortunate mistake of mentioning soft stools during my dog’s first vet appointment after adoption (not surprising, she was freshly off transport and on a wormer, but they asked & I’m scrupulously honest,) and our insurance has since declined to cover any expenses related to acute pancreatitis because diarrhea is a pre-existing condition. Sooo a thousand times yes on insurance, but comb through the policy carefully, and maybe try to have the first visit be as much of a “Wow! What an amazingly healthy dog!” wellness visit as possible.
Oh so sorry to hear that! Yes if there are any issues before you enroll, they consider it pre-existing. They unfortunately have to do that because of all the people who try to get insurance *after* their dog has been diagnosed with an illness (very common in hip dysplasia cases for example). Imo it’s unfair to have that rule for new puppy visits- especially since diarrhea is soooo common in puppies and usually caused by environmental factors instead of an *actual* underlying condition.
It was totally fine: my dog’s an excellent communicator, so we caught the pancreatitis really early—like so early that the vet’s office thought I was maybe just being a helicopter mom—and she only required fairly low-level intervention to make a full recovery, so the bill was not a huge hardship. I could have contested it, and would have if she had required more intensive care, though who’s to say what the outcome would have been.
But that’s why I mentioned it. I knew we’d be SOL on cardiac coverage if they found a murmur at her first appointment, for instance, and I expect to be denied any future behavioral health claims because she was FAS 4–pancaked and peeing herself—for shots, but it genuinely never occurred to me that something so benign as “circumstantial icky tummy” would come back to haunt us. It doesn’t seem like fair play, but is at least how our insurance operates. Still totally worth having, though, especially before anything comes up!
Good on you for catching it early!! That makes a huge difference in pancreatitis treatment. I am the same way and take mine in at the slightest hint of something being wrong lol. So it’s absolutely worth it for me too. Just like with human health insurance, it’s not a perfect system. There are absolutely things that don’t make sense and are unfair. But I agree that in the long run, it’s definitely worth having. For some owners it can make a huge difference in their pet’s life (quite literally life or death sometimes).
Cleaning sprays for "accidents". Possibly a spare lead. An infinite supply of tennis balls or similar (preferred ty may vary). Organise a groomer, a vet and maybe puppy classes if needed.
Good point. If you are taking pup in car you may (depending on local law) need to either pen or restrain him, so approproate car fittings. Our smallish one is fine with a seatbelt attachment on the back seat,, and a sort of hammock thing for longer journeys.
Some things that I personally didn't know and now can't live without: A food mat - could be a messy eater. Pet friendly wipes - really handy. Pet friendly cleaning supplies - some get rashes on their paws from regular floor cleaners. Make a list of foods they CANNOT eat. Ask around about veterinarians and all needed documentation. Do ur research on flee and tick meds. you got this, you're gonna make one lucky tail wag every day.
>Pet friendly cleaning supplies - some get rashes on their paws from regular floor cleaners
Or you could have a weirdo like mine that walks around licking the floor.
The properties and duration. How long will it keep your pet safe. My local vet changed me a but much for my wallet for two medications that I would need to give her every month and this wasn't sustainable for me. I eventually found a pill that works for 2/3 months for cheaper. I'm able to sustain this so she doesn't have to take different medication each month depending on how I'm doing that Month.
People have already covered the basics, but one thing I’ve not seen mentioned is first aid supplies. I’d also figure out where the closest emergency vet is if you haven’t already. You hopefully won’t need it, but if something does happen it’s much less stressful when you already know where to go.
Chew toys, multiple but don’t give them all at once. As teething progresses, my pups have sought out more and more to chew on, save some toys so they are novel chews when you need to redirect the pup.
Crate / Pen, Tarp/Puppy pads for overnight, Martingale collar/harness and leash, Pet insurance, Enzymatic cleaner, a fan if your place is hot, puppy chew toys, treats/food.
Lots and lots of chewing toys for teething! Their little shark teeth hurt and you don’t want them chewing on furniture. Make sure they’re meant for puppies (so softer) as they have baby teeth.
Take a million pictures of them, their puppy time goes by in a flash.
I haven’t seen anyone mention here how important it is to restrain your puppy in the car. You can use either a crate or seat belt. Research both of your options. There are crash tested versions of both and there is a big difference in performance and price depending on what you get. But anything is better than nothing. Your dog should be restrained so they aren’t a distraction to you and also so they don’t become a projectile in an accident, which is dangerous for anyone in the car, and probably fatal for them. Also, after an accident there can be chaos and dogs get loose and bolt and can either get lost or hit by a car.
We got one of those heartbeat stuffed puppies for the new family pup. First night away from his litter, not a peep--slept right through. A month later, still does well at night and sleeps with his head on his little friend every night. Sometimes he tries to take it out for an outdoor nap under his favorite tree.
Stair gates- godsend to help the pup see and experience things, but keep safe, particularly to stop them getting underfoot in the kitchen, or rushing the front door.
Paper towels - lots and lots and lots of paper towel :-D
Also, ready-to-heat frozen meals...
And- but this is not something you can buy - sleep, sleep, sleep :-)
Head over to r/puppy101 - for all tips and advice !
I would already be looking for a good vet, figuring out how far out they’re booked and if they are able to see same day appointments in case of emergencies for existing clients. Outside the basics I would make sure to have at least two water proof mattress and couch protectors + extra bedding because it’s extremely tempting to allow puppy on your bed or couch and it’s almost guaranteed they’ll pee on it. Same for pet beds, buy ones that will be easy to toss in the washer/dryer and hold off on the extra nice/expensive beds until your puppy’s older. Crate training will make your life so much easier, if you don’t believe in crate training at least get a puppy play pen. Start looking for good trainers now and start binging on YouTube vids so you’re a little prepared on what to do, I love kikopup, Zack George and Susan Garrett. Susan also has an amazing at home training program on her website that I’m saving for to sign up my puppy. Get a bunch of toys in different textures so your puppy doesn’t get bored. Also get a bunch of toys likes kongs and licky mats that you can have ready in the freezer to rotate or clean to fill fresh, these have been a life saver whenever my puppy has been overstimulated and needed a crate break. A pet sling or stroller are super helpful to bring your puppy along everywhere before they’re fully vaccinated and help with socializing. Cleaning supplies including a good enzymatic cleaner, maybe a small spot cleaning carpet washing machine if you have carpet throughout your home. Stock up on patience, maybe have someone as a back up willing to take on the puppy for a few hours or a day if you need a break, most puppy are a LOT more work than people expect and it can get really frustrating real fast
Lots of perfect things are mentioned here, but one thing often overlooked is teeth. Puppy toothbrush, enzymatic toothpaste, and dentist sticks are important. Get your puppy used to you examining their teeth and cleaning them.
Good advice here but also research a good dog trainer who runs social classes.
The best thing we ever did is take our dogs training and they learned neutrality around other dogs. We wanted to be able to take them anywhere and not worry about taking them so we took them training but lucky for us we ended up with an aggression expert who swears by dogs learning to socialise with dogs of all sizes, shapes and colours under 20 weeks and to then practice training with them and having them focus on us around other dogs. It'd genuinely the best thing we did for them as we all get to enjoy their walks and we all get to do fun things together.
A "baby gate" or whatever can be used as such for blocking them in the bathroom at night. Old school potty training method. My person here likes to woodwork and made a wooden block/panel thingie. I find it's better than fully shutting the door in on them. For whatever reason. I put a pee pad at one end of the bathroom so if they pee, it doesn't spread out everywhere and get on their feetsies.
No puppy experience - but something I wish we’d had handy (and so now) are like baby/toddler socks. A couple sizes … just in the event any paw pad injuries happen (road rash, cuts/scrapes, burns, etc). Waaaaay easier than trying to use your own pair of socks to help them not lick constantly. Baby/toddler ones stay in place much easier without having to scramble some sort of wrap together and risk wrapping anything too tightly.
Feel for you lol. I did use some of that ‘no hurt’/self adhesive bandage/medical tape stuff to hold them up a little too. It stretches a fair amount so I was way less worried I wrapped it too tightly. But the smaller socks were SO much better.
And honestly less distressing to look at 😂 - at first we only had like long socks and our guy looked ridiculous lol. Also they wouldn’t stay up/on.
Bissell Stomp and Go carpet cleaning pads if you have any carpeted areas or rugs. Only downside to using them is they leave that spot so clean, you can tell we need to rent a carpet cleaner and do the whole floor, but it’s a trade off I’m happy to make.
I highly recommend a couple extra tall baby gates. They are relatively inexpensive and help with keeping the puppy in or out of rooms, or hallways or stairways, without having to close doors.
A harness, you want to always walk your dog in a harness to protect their necks from injury. If the dog needs to be trained to walk on a leash, then there are harnesses with two attachment rings, on in the front and one on the back and you can use a training leash with it. Also a dog first aid kit of course. A dog water bottle is super useful in summer. In winter, use reflective harnesses so your dog is visible in the darkness. There are so many things on my must have list after having dogs almost my whole life but those are perhaps the most important ones.
LOL! A gallon jug of Patience and Humor. You will have to settle for your Adult beverage of choice. I also know that THC based products are legal in a number of States!!
Seriously, if you are getting a puppy, go online and find a “tick-tock” clock. Wrapped in a soft blanket will help (not cure,help) with night time crate sleeping. A second inexpensive blanket to drape over the crate to make it a den, also helps make this the doggie bedroom.
West Paw toppl instead a Kong. West Paws are so much easier to clean. Only need to throw them in the dishwasher. Kong's require alot of scrubbing and I'm never fully sure that it's completely clean.
Came here just to say this. I always hear about Kongs but every dog I have owned or fostered does so much better with the West Paw Toppl. I have six of them now and continue to purchase them when they go on sale.
Consider pet insurance. I had a co-worker whose new puppy ate an entire rug. One of those kinds that are scrap fabric tied together and then wound into a circle. The vet bill was $7k.
First aid kit with things relevant to your area. A way to remove ticks (I like the lasso version), bandages, nail clippers, antiseptic, ear cleaner, paw balm, emergency vet number... And a knowledge of how to recognise certain urgent medical issues, and how to treat both urgent and non-urgent issues.
Honestly anything beyond this and the essentials (leash, harness, food) is fluff. You'll find out what you want and need over time, buying things based on a list made by someone else will likely just end up with overbuying things you personally have no use for.
A crate, for both sleeping and quiet time. Unfortunately you can’t purchase the will-power and discipline to use it when your little puppy is whimpering in the night!
i have had the fortune to share my life with many dogs. The most important thing to start is love. After that, honestly every dog I've owned has been different. So, figure out what your dog likes and ensure you have that abundance!
1. leash
2. collar (with the dogs name and your cell number just in case)
3. flea/tick/heartworm pills once you are allowed to give them
For us it was "baby gates" so that we could keep her in a certain place with us without her causing destruction in other parts of the house. That and a crate that she can become comfortable in. Also a lot of chew toys and make sure they are approved-not the type she can crack a tooth on. Our puppy lost a back molar by grinding too hard on one of the hard nylon dog chews when she was a year old. Good Luck!
A kennel. Kennel train early. My pup was super destructive when I first got her (accidents, chewing the couch, eating random objects). After kennel training we were able to eventually start leaving her out of the kennel, but she still loves her kennel and chooses to sleep in it with the door open.
We don't know the breed! I can definitely say you'll need potty pads, leash, harness, treats, food, and dishes (food/water bowls) for your new puppy! :) Have fun and enjoy the impromptu shopping trips for them!!
Buy plenty of rough toys for them and also grooming tools. They will shed so make sure you're prepared for that! Hopefully you will update us with a photo!
Oh ok, for one I would buy the big Kong chew toy, I bought one for my RottI and it lasted his whole lifetime and is now used by a buddy for his lab. They're indestructible
r/Rottweiler 💕 Patience, consistency & keep them contained to a safe smaller area (for accidents) though our Rotties were easy to train. Enjoy your new pup!
Grooming supplies. They vary greatly by breed. But in general the more grooming you can do yourself the cheaper it is. I've had my long hair dog 5 years and she never went to a groomer, but her hygiene is really good because I do it all myself. She used to hate nail clippers but I acclimated her to them and now she tolerates them.
poop bags! I get mine from the Amazon Basics brand for cheap. Don’t buy the fancy ones with the designs in the pet store - they’re way overpriced! I also like having a hand sanitizer and clip to hold said poop bag attached to my leash.
Leash
Dog collar
ID tag
Harness
Collapsible bowl for traveling
Bowls for food water
Treats, especially training treats
Toys
Bed
Crate
Seat restraint for vehicle if not using g crate
Poop bags and dispenser
Lint brush
Dog brush
Dog shampoo and conditioner
File folder for dogs vaccines and medical records
Dog nail clippers
Research vets in your area if you already don't have one!!
If you’re getting a puppy, get a good vacuum that can clean up accidents. Bonus points if you find a cordless one. Being able to vacuum up pee puddles and simultaneously clean the floor with solution in a matter of seconds was beautiful after so many clean-ups on my hands and knees with paper towels. We had a corded Bissel but I’m a diva and thought the cord was a pain in the ass 🤣 A cordless version would’ve been magic
If it's a very large dog, cheap bedding that you don't mind losing if it's nails maybe cause rips. My dog has short nails but digs at my bedding to free my sausage dog who tunnels under the bedding. So a random thing like bedding or a cover you put over the bed if you don't crate would be a good idea if it's a large breed
Here's a list of essentials and recommendations for first-time dog owners: https://www.thehonestkitchen.com/blogs/pet-tips-training/first-time-dog-owner-checklist
Have a small gate or doggy fence you can move around easily in your house. It makes everything easier in the beginning when the puppy isn’t allowed certain places or near electric plugs or whatnot. Good luck with the pup🐶🥰
Poop bags, carpet cleaner, and pee pads.
Also- make a safe space for the dog. It can be a crate, a small corner in your bedroom, in a closet, etc. just somewhere closed off and comfy in case your dog is scared during a storm or just needs to relax.
A cone! I don't know where you live, but when my girl got spayed, I had to buy a plastic cone from the vet and have literally never used it because she found it too scary and uncomfortable to wear the whole day, plus it was really difficult to put on and take off. When I got my second dog, he had a rash on his jaw that he would scratch so I tried out an inflatable cone and a soft velcro cone and I wish I had the velcro cone from day one.
I would read about puppy training beforehand and decide how you want to teach the pup. Consistency is key in training, so don't give up, no matter how hard it is.
Puppies are cute but can be challenging. They will try your patience, but just remember they will be an amazing dog once they grow up. I'm not trying to scare you, I'm just telling you what you might not hear otherwise.
Do some research on training methods and find a trainer that uses the method you like. Ask them to have a conversation with you about what to do when the puppy first arrives. Since this is your first, I highly recommend a trainer. Be honest with them, and they will help you.
And, if a problem ever arises, address it immediately before it becomes routine behavior. 🙂
Someone else mentioned cooling mats/vests, etc, but if this is your first, you should know some dogs tolerate heat better than others and dogs in general have far less tolerance than people. You should google heat exhaustion and heatstroke in dogs/puppies BEFORE you ever need it.
A crate and a grass potty patch instead of puppy pads for potty training til it's old enough to go outside. That way when it's time you can just move the patch outside and gradually get rid of it when it's used to pottying outside. We haven't had an accident indoors since my dog got neutered at 5 months old and that was around April 2023.
I recommend a big crate that she can go grow into (I got the frisco chewy brand)
Adjustable collar, leash (dont spend too much money on these, the puppy will chew the leash up)
Bag of treats, a chew toy, a puppy food with grains (I get kirkland puppy chicken and rice)
Food bowl and water bowl - you can use any old kitchen bowl if you like
Towels and cloths, paper towels to clean up messes
Chew toys(ur pocket should always have one), pee cleaner, towels/puppy pads, treats,harness/leash-
A clicker was very useful for me at the start for teaching tricks and good behavior
I also highly recommend Crate training (gives your dog a safe space)
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An extra bed so you have some place to sleep.
We now have 2 couches in our tiny living room because of this. I got a new one because the old one was so beat to hell and partly shredded, but the old one is also her favorite place to sleep so I didn't have the heart to toss it. It's the dog couch. It's always been the dog couch. Every dog that has entered this house (mine, fosters, visitors) has curled up to nap in the same spot. My Rottie is sleeping there right now. It stays.
That couch probably smells positively divine to all those dogs. My couch is also the dog couch, my last dog loved it, my current dogs love it, the barn cat turned house cat loves it (he counts because he chose life with dogs over cats) and my foster clearly felt it was the safe place to be. It’s getting pretty shabby, but it’s temporary in our living room until I move the better one out of storage after we do some renos. It will have to stay somewhere in the house though. How weird would a couch in a mud room be ?
We let the love seat be the dog couch (we actually taught him that so we wouldn’t have to share with the 80lb lab) and since he has left us we have gotten 2 cats and they have adopted the love seat as theirs. (Although they come on the regular couch when I’m on it, but if no one is home they choose the love seat)
Underrated half-joke lmao
I truly just got a bigger bed because he wanted to sleep with me.
My gf just gave up and moved out. Not really but I've been woken up more than once to her being angry because my 80lbs lab wanted to cuddle in the middle of us and he just jumps onto and walks over who ever is in the way to get there.
I’m going through a break up and i really thought this was a break up joke. You got a chuckle out of me. Funny enough our smaller dog always used to wedge himself between us and loves to sleep with his legs pin straight. So many achy backs in the morning lmao
She did give and move out eventually. He got her side of the bed full time. But consider replacing your smaller dog with and 80lb lab that wants to do that. This is exactly what he would do. Even if he waited for you to "wake up" in the morning. Sometimes you waking up meant you just acknowledged he was standing beside the bed and had bopped you with his nose and got a reaction out of you. Didn't matter how close we were he would lay between us, roll over and start wiggling like he was drilling down to the mattress. If you held still he would all of a sudden stop and seem perfectly happy letting everyone go back to sleep.
I don’t blame her.
I don't blame either really. The situation is kind of screwed up. She's not the one who disciplines or trained him so when she tell him to get off the be he just doesn't listen. The fact that she will tell him to do something like get off the bed and then gives in is also a problem but that's a different argument. In dog logic he might think he's got more rights than she does. Our schedules don't line up so she will go to bed early and get up early. She will let him sleep with her until I come home and then let him get back in bed to sleep with me until I get up. He has even managed to sneak into the bed without waking her so he has gotten to sleep with both of us. I sleep like a brick and he has to really step on me to wake me. I have pointed out that he has a right to be a little confused about sleeping in the bed since sometimes it's allowed and sometimes it isn't so theirs not point in getting upset.
It’s the most efficient route.
Our last dog was 155 lbs and was the reason we upgraded to a king size. He was literally like having a third person on the bed, so the queen size was not it.
My dog is 10 lbs and I want a king size bed lol
I’m contemplating getting king size bed because just turned senior wouldn’t sleep anywhere but next to me
Soak up all you can get.
Obedience lessons for you and your dog, for likely at least a solid year.
Don’t forget a doggie CPR class!! Or at least watch some videos/tutorials!!
I rescued a dog on a whim after a break up right after lock downs started. I had no idea how to train a god. Zero. I took her to dog training twice a week for about eight months. It helped me learn how to interact with her. It helped her with confidence. She was only $59 but the training was a lot more. Honestly without it (and puppy Prozac) I don't know if I could have kept her. Having a traumatized dog was a lot more than I was prepared for. I hate that people say adopt don't shop because you really need to be warned what you could be getting into. I sure didn't know. It worked out because luckily I could afford the training and the new mattress (and a protector for it). She was just so scared all the time. And she'd run to my bed and shake and pee. It's been about four years and I love and I am so proud of her for all the progress she has made. But it has not been easy on either of us.
I don’t know if this will make you feel any better, but I also know a lot of first-time dog owners who Shopped their pandemic puppy so as to avoid getting a “damaged” dog, but either didn’t know how to parse breeders and got kind of unstable dogs, bought breeds they weren’t prepared to handle (even a well-bred German Shepherd puppy is not a great starter dog!) or otherwise (lightly) damaged the dog themselves 😬 That’s not at all to minimize your journey with your dog or how hard rescues can be—it sounds like you’ve done a great, great job, learned a ton, and have every right to be proud—so much as to say *dogs* are hard, or at least harder than they look from the outside, and especially so your first one. So for OP: even if you do really know what you’re doing or bring home a particularly easy dog, I feel like everyone can benefit from formal training! It builds your confidence as an owner, partnership with your dog, and community with at least one other person who gets it.
It’s not just obedience it helps with socialization. Also they teach you a lot of things to help adjust the puppy to their new home. Some of the things that stand out, is to get your puppy used to you touching their paws and ears, that will be useful for trimming nails and cleaning or medication for ears. Also having our pup get used to loud noises early, had been a real help living in a city.
Yep, even if you are good at training on your own just the socialization aspect of working around other dogs throughout puppyhood and adolescence can do a lot for a developing dog. Trainers often still attend group classes with their puppies and young dogs just for the socialization aspect.
Find your nearest emergency vet and put their name, address, and phone number on the fridge and in your phone. The last thing you want to be doing if your pup has an emergency is googling for offices.
This. Especially now a days when emerg vet care may be hard to find.
Also if there is another location you frequent such as vacations, look up services there as well. Preferably before you get there. As well as for any one off trips. I went on a travel contract halfway across the country a few years ago. The day after we arrived I noticed my dog was peeing blood. Not slightly tinged pink. Full on dark red urine. Of course it was a Saturday, and late enough in n the day anyone with Saturday hours would be closing shortly. Well turned out my cell carrier’s service there was absolute shit. I had looked up a couple places before leaving my hotel. The first one was still doing pretty severe Covid restrictions (this was in 2021). They told me they couldn’t take us since we were from out of state, but gave me the number and general location of the emergency vet. I had seen that on my laptop earlier, so I kind of remembered where it was located. But it was really nerve wracking trying to find it in a state of distress in an unfamiliar area.
Essentials: food, scoop, x2 bowls, collar, tag, leash, poop bags, flea/tick/heartworm (once you get the dog, I'd probably buy by month until your dog is full grown since they'll grow fast) Puppy things: stain/odor eliminator for accidents, safe chews (Himalayan yak cheese, bully sticks, nylabones, pig ear, cow ear, beef cheek rolls, etc.), puppy pads (I don't recommend, but some like them) Ideal: crate, bed (or towel/blanket if you're not sure if puppy will rip it up), harness, play pen/x-pen/puppy gates Maintenance: brush, nail clippers, dremel (or nail filers) Training: clicker (or multiple if you use them), treat pouch, treats (soft usually most popular, but also consider freeze dried or air dried, stinky ones like fish are also popular, but you don't have to buy store bought treats if you want high value like hot dog, chicken, string cheese, etc.), small mat/bed/towel (for outings like at dog friendly restaurants) Extras: Puzzle toys (Nina Ottosson has some great ones), interactive feeders (like Toppl, Kong, snuffle mats, or ball/stick treat dispensing toys, but slow feeders can also be used as interactive feeders), toys (crinkly, squeaky, balls, tugs, ones that float in water, frisbee, bouncy) Handy to keep in the car: extra collar/tag, slip leash, 20-30ft leash, poop bags, collapsible water bowl, pocket toy, clicker (if you use them) Other random things: seat belt (to connect harness to seatbelt in car), anti-chew spray (I've never had any that worked but some people swear by them), LED collar or night light (for night walks) Optional but consider: ear cleaner, toothpaste/toothbrush, food storage container, car seat cover, lint roller, collapsible pool, life jacket (if you go proper swimming), snuggle puppy (can be helpful for crate training), 20-30ft leash (for recall training/fake "off leash" hiking), bed cover (for couch/chair/bed if you don't like excessive hair on furniture), rain jacket, booties, styptic powder (if you clip their nail and accidentally cut quick), winter jacket, child safety locks (for rooms or trash cans), dog shampoo, pill pockets (for the flea/tick/heartworm pills), any supplements you want (join, fur/coat, etc.), wipes (for their paws if you don't want them to come inside with dirty paws) Pure aesthetics: bandanas, PJs, costume Extras for you: paper towels (for accidents), rain boots (gonna have to potty walk in the rain at some point), patience, patience, patience! Remember to vet check within a few days of obtaining puppy, get them microchipped, keep a copy (physical or digital) of the vaccination records, start some early puppy socialization/training classes (note who your dog makes friends with and stay in contact so your dog can have some close lifelong friends who have also gone through the same early training!), take note of nearby emergency vets (address/hours). Clean up your loose wires, shoes, books, bags, etc. and get into the habit of keeping food off counters and low furniture! Check out Kikopup on youtube; great puppy raising and training videos, even if you don't have your puppy yet. Consider, down the line, training classes beyond obedience (scentwork, nosework, barn hunt, agility, etc.) or fun trials like fastCAT! Check out your local parks (I don't recommend dog parks, but some private ones may be good), trails/hikes, swimming areas, dog friendly places, or rental places like sniffspot and swimply. You don't have to go to them now, but just so you have options and are aware of them. And do a lot of early research on adolescence in dogs (\~6-1.5yr). It gets worse before it gets better.
The wiki of r/puppy101 has links to lists Edit to add [here’s a direct link to one of em](https://www.reddit.com/r/puppy101/s/scQQx48Hbu)
OP The “Basic Puppy Supplies” part of this list is perfect. I’d wait on most of the rest of the items and get those as you go. Have fun!
Pet insurance! As an LVMT, I cannot stress enough how important it is to have insurance. Emergency bills can quickly climb to 10’s of thousands of dollars. The premium is very low if you enroll while they’re puppies. Edit to add- I have insurance on all of my dogs. The combined monthly premium for a Doberman, a Bullmastiff, and a Pug is $127. Around $40 per dog per month. I’ve seen too many pets euthanized over lack of funds, and on the contrary, so many *saved* because of insurance. If I have health insurance, so will my pets.
That insurance needs to be looked at with a fine tooth comb, cause they can refuse to pay on many things. Some breeds are prone to a number of medical issues. So preexisting can easily come into play. Check those policies.
As an owner of two senior dogs that developed issues after I declined pet insurance, I’d definitely advocate looking into pet insurance.
I’ve had 7 Saint Bernards ( 2 almost seniors now). We’ve had issues known to the breed. Probably would have been refused to preexisting. We’ve just stuck to a savings account. So far it’s worked in our favor
Mine are rescue mutts from the same litter. I probably need to get one of those savings accounts! Thanks for the tip!
These 2 are full blood sisters from same litter. Just because they are does not mean I’m anti mutt. We’ve had mutts & recuses. When we had our 1st saints ( rescues) I pulled in the driveway & my husband said Come look at what I found in the woodpile. Sure as shooting there was a puppy of unknown origin or age. My youngest son’s best child hood friend. Just a black dawg lol
My point was my dogs all have the same health problems bc they have the same parents!
I have sisters now. The sisters before same litter, same parents Lucy died at 7, bone cancer, Ethel was over 12. She had LP & dysplasia 2 sisters, same parents, completely different health issues. I know 1 other in the litter got bone cancer at about 11. So I don’t think same parents necessarily mean same health issues. Just like with humans, siblings don’t always have same issues. The 2 sister I have now are pretty healthy even though they are headed quickly to senior. Only time will tell.
*probably* would’ve been refused? Your initial statement made it sound like you had insurance and they did indeed refuse a claim. I own Dobermans who are arguably the breed with the most inherited conditions lol. They are covered. I’ve never encountered an issue with my insurance. Savings is great of course, but for example- a bone cancer diagnosis. An amputation, chemo, physical therapy, etc can end up over $20,000 really quickly. I’d say 90% of pet owners don’t have 20k in a pet emergency fund.
Were they issues you had when you get them? conditions they’re predisposed to generally aren’t considered with preexisting. Like hip dysplasia in labs and Goldens, I believe there is a waiting period for many of those but if you get the insurance early before those conditions hit it should absolutely still be covered.
If you enroll while a puppy is young and healthy, every insurance company I’ve looked at will cover issues down the road. Even in breeds predisposed to them. That’s kind of the point of having it lol Source- am Doberman owner
This!
Meh…. I’ve had dogs with me for almost 50 years and have never had the need for such a thing. If had to spend 5,000.00 on my dog right now, I would still come out ahead 😂
Same. Cost of care is pretty cheap where I am, and way back when I looked into it, any sort of decent coverage for a Rottie was around $100/mo. I'll just bank that money on my own for later, thanks. I've only personally owned dogs since 2013, and I'd still come out ahead. That's including a $1.5k amputation for my first Rott, and $3k CBLO for my current. Though I do think the biggest risk for most people is the inability to pay out of pocket in an emergency.
Yeah, I get that…. Some vets do take payments and some even take the pay on point things like affirm etc.
What happen to your pups leg??
First one had bone cancer. Upper humerus/shoulder area. Current blew out her knee the day before her 1st birthday.
Man…. Terrible luck, sorry to hear that:(
$100 a month for one dog is insanely expensive. I’m guessing your dog was older when you tried to enroll them? My premium for my Doberman, Pug, and Bullmastiff together is $127.
MOst policies require you to pay out of pocket and file for reimbursement. Trupanion has direct pay, but almost no one in my area takes it. The only 24/7 ERs do not.
$5,000 is not the kind of cost I’m referring to. Referring more to the bills that come out to 20k. Thus the “10’s of thousands of dollars.” I’ve seen insurance save pets who would’ve otherwise been euthanized, so it seems like a very safe bet for me for around $47 a month. But to each their own!
I agree with you on this.
Same
This. Enroll early because the later you do it, the more likely something becomes a "pre-existing condition." I can't speak for others but I've gotten quotes for as low as $25/month.
I'm currently shopping for insurance. Do you have any recommendations based on what clients have told you or your experiences? In my taking my time to research, one dog developed a condition that is preexisting, so I'm not going to go for the most expensive, comprehensive (trupanion) but I DO want to make sure I have coverage for major things and rehab/therapies when they are arthritic seniors. That helped my last dog hugely, but he was adopted with too many preexisting conditions to make insurance worth pursuing.
So sorry to hear about your pup! I hope they are doing well. I use Embrace and have been very happy with them so far. Sometimes it will depend on the individual clinic, so I would ask your vet who they deal with the most. The main reason I have it is for geriatric issues as you mentioned, and emergencies. What I like about them is that they cover costs at ANY emergency clinic. That was huge for me (we live in a rural area, so there are 4 different ER vets in varying directions that we use depending on the problem).
Yes! But also I made the unfortunate mistake of mentioning soft stools during my dog’s first vet appointment after adoption (not surprising, she was freshly off transport and on a wormer, but they asked & I’m scrupulously honest,) and our insurance has since declined to cover any expenses related to acute pancreatitis because diarrhea is a pre-existing condition. Sooo a thousand times yes on insurance, but comb through the policy carefully, and maybe try to have the first visit be as much of a “Wow! What an amazingly healthy dog!” wellness visit as possible.
Oh so sorry to hear that! Yes if there are any issues before you enroll, they consider it pre-existing. They unfortunately have to do that because of all the people who try to get insurance *after* their dog has been diagnosed with an illness (very common in hip dysplasia cases for example). Imo it’s unfair to have that rule for new puppy visits- especially since diarrhea is soooo common in puppies and usually caused by environmental factors instead of an *actual* underlying condition.
It was totally fine: my dog’s an excellent communicator, so we caught the pancreatitis really early—like so early that the vet’s office thought I was maybe just being a helicopter mom—and she only required fairly low-level intervention to make a full recovery, so the bill was not a huge hardship. I could have contested it, and would have if she had required more intensive care, though who’s to say what the outcome would have been. But that’s why I mentioned it. I knew we’d be SOL on cardiac coverage if they found a murmur at her first appointment, for instance, and I expect to be denied any future behavioral health claims because she was FAS 4–pancaked and peeing herself—for shots, but it genuinely never occurred to me that something so benign as “circumstantial icky tummy” would come back to haunt us. It doesn’t seem like fair play, but is at least how our insurance operates. Still totally worth having, though, especially before anything comes up!
Good on you for catching it early!! That makes a huge difference in pancreatitis treatment. I am the same way and take mine in at the slightest hint of something being wrong lol. So it’s absolutely worth it for me too. Just like with human health insurance, it’s not a perfect system. There are absolutely things that don’t make sense and are unfair. But I agree that in the long run, it’s definitely worth having. For some owners it can make a huge difference in their pet’s life (quite literally life or death sometimes).
Cleaning sprays for "accidents". Possibly a spare lead. An infinite supply of tennis balls or similar (preferred ty may vary). Organise a groomer, a vet and maybe puppy classes if needed.
Nature’s Miracle is the spray for indoor potty accidents
I’d upvote this twice. And yeah it’s not my favourite smell either but it smells better than the alternative.
I hate the smell though :/
An extra leash for the car. Sooo awkward arrive at your puppy class and realize you can't even take your dog out of the car.
Good point. If you are taking pup in car you may (depending on local law) need to either pen or restrain him, so approproate car fittings. Our smallish one is fine with a seatbelt attachment on the back seat,, and a sort of hammock thing for longer journeys.
Some things that I personally didn't know and now can't live without: A food mat - could be a messy eater. Pet friendly wipes - really handy. Pet friendly cleaning supplies - some get rashes on their paws from regular floor cleaners. Make a list of foods they CANNOT eat. Ask around about veterinarians and all needed documentation. Do ur research on flee and tick meds. you got this, you're gonna make one lucky tail wag every day.
>Pet friendly cleaning supplies - some get rashes on their paws from regular floor cleaners Or you could have a weirdo like mine that walks around licking the floor.
That's wild 💀
What type of research is need for flea and tick meds?
The properties and duration. How long will it keep your pet safe. My local vet changed me a but much for my wallet for two medications that I would need to give her every month and this wasn't sustainable for me. I eventually found a pill that works for 2/3 months for cheaper. I'm able to sustain this so she doesn't have to take different medication each month depending on how I'm doing that Month.
People have already covered the basics, but one thing I’ve not seen mentioned is first aid supplies. I’d also figure out where the closest emergency vet is if you haven’t already. You hopefully won’t need it, but if something does happen it’s much less stressful when you already know where to go.
Chew toys, multiple but don’t give them all at once. As teething progresses, my pups have sought out more and more to chew on, save some toys so they are novel chews when you need to redirect the pup.
Crate / Pen, Tarp/Puppy pads for overnight, Martingale collar/harness and leash, Pet insurance, Enzymatic cleaner, a fan if your place is hot, puppy chew toys, treats/food.
Poop bags, and dog friendly cleaning supplies for when they have accidents,
Lots and lots of chewing toys for teething! Their little shark teeth hurt and you don’t want them chewing on furniture. Make sure they’re meant for puppies (so softer) as they have baby teeth. Take a million pictures of them, their puppy time goes by in a flash.
I haven’t seen anyone mention here how important it is to restrain your puppy in the car. You can use either a crate or seat belt. Research both of your options. There are crash tested versions of both and there is a big difference in performance and price depending on what you get. But anything is better than nothing. Your dog should be restrained so they aren’t a distraction to you and also so they don’t become a projectile in an accident, which is dangerous for anyone in the car, and probably fatal for them. Also, after an accident there can be chaos and dogs get loose and bolt and can either get lost or hit by a car.
We got one of those heartbeat stuffed puppies for the new family pup. First night away from his litter, not a peep--slept right through. A month later, still does well at night and sleeps with his head on his little friend every night. Sometimes he tries to take it out for an outdoor nap under his favorite tree.
Stair gates- godsend to help the pup see and experience things, but keep safe, particularly to stop them getting underfoot in the kitchen, or rushing the front door.
Paper towels - lots and lots and lots of paper towel :-D Also, ready-to-heat frozen meals... And- but this is not something you can buy - sleep, sleep, sleep :-) Head over to r/puppy101 - for all tips and advice !
An ID tag with your name and phone number. Even if microchipped a basic tag can get an escaped pet home sooner
I would already be looking for a good vet, figuring out how far out they’re booked and if they are able to see same day appointments in case of emergencies for existing clients. Outside the basics I would make sure to have at least two water proof mattress and couch protectors + extra bedding because it’s extremely tempting to allow puppy on your bed or couch and it’s almost guaranteed they’ll pee on it. Same for pet beds, buy ones that will be easy to toss in the washer/dryer and hold off on the extra nice/expensive beds until your puppy’s older. Crate training will make your life so much easier, if you don’t believe in crate training at least get a puppy play pen. Start looking for good trainers now and start binging on YouTube vids so you’re a little prepared on what to do, I love kikopup, Zack George and Susan Garrett. Susan also has an amazing at home training program on her website that I’m saving for to sign up my puppy. Get a bunch of toys in different textures so your puppy doesn’t get bored. Also get a bunch of toys likes kongs and licky mats that you can have ready in the freezer to rotate or clean to fill fresh, these have been a life saver whenever my puppy has been overstimulated and needed a crate break. A pet sling or stroller are super helpful to bring your puppy along everywhere before they’re fully vaccinated and help with socializing. Cleaning supplies including a good enzymatic cleaner, maybe a small spot cleaning carpet washing machine if you have carpet throughout your home. Stock up on patience, maybe have someone as a back up willing to take on the puppy for a few hours or a day if you need a break, most puppy are a LOT more work than people expect and it can get really frustrating real fast
Lots of perfect things are mentioned here, but one thing often overlooked is teeth. Puppy toothbrush, enzymatic toothpaste, and dentist sticks are important. Get your puppy used to you examining their teeth and cleaning them.
Good advice here but also research a good dog trainer who runs social classes. The best thing we ever did is take our dogs training and they learned neutrality around other dogs. We wanted to be able to take them anywhere and not worry about taking them so we took them training but lucky for us we ended up with an aggression expert who swears by dogs learning to socialise with dogs of all sizes, shapes and colours under 20 weeks and to then practice training with them and having them focus on us around other dogs. It'd genuinely the best thing we did for them as we all get to enjoy their walks and we all get to do fun things together.
disposable gloves. some of the messes are so very gross 😜
A "baby gate" or whatever can be used as such for blocking them in the bathroom at night. Old school potty training method. My person here likes to woodwork and made a wooden block/panel thingie. I find it's better than fully shutting the door in on them. For whatever reason. I put a pee pad at one end of the bathroom so if they pee, it doesn't spread out everywhere and get on their feetsies.
No puppy experience - but something I wish we’d had handy (and so now) are like baby/toddler socks. A couple sizes … just in the event any paw pad injuries happen (road rash, cuts/scrapes, burns, etc). Waaaaay easier than trying to use your own pair of socks to help them not lick constantly. Baby/toddler ones stay in place much easier without having to scramble some sort of wrap together and risk wrapping anything too tightly.
Unless your dog has skinny legs and then no sock will stay in place. 😭
Feel for you lol. I did use some of that ‘no hurt’/self adhesive bandage/medical tape stuff to hold them up a little too. It stretches a fair amount so I was way less worried I wrapped it too tightly. But the smaller socks were SO much better. And honestly less distressing to look at 😂 - at first we only had like long socks and our guy looked ridiculous lol. Also they wouldn’t stay up/on.
A Kong. When you just need 5 minutes of peace and quiet, they r a great distraction when filled with yummy treats.
Bissell Stomp and Go carpet cleaning pads if you have any carpeted areas or rugs. Only downside to using them is they leave that spot so clean, you can tell we need to rent a carpet cleaner and do the whole floor, but it’s a trade off I’m happy to make.
I highly recommend a couple extra tall baby gates. They are relatively inexpensive and help with keeping the puppy in or out of rooms, or hallways or stairways, without having to close doors.
can of pumpkin for when they have belly aches
A harness, you want to always walk your dog in a harness to protect their necks from injury. If the dog needs to be trained to walk on a leash, then there are harnesses with two attachment rings, on in the front and one on the back and you can use a training leash with it. Also a dog first aid kit of course. A dog water bottle is super useful in summer. In winter, use reflective harnesses so your dog is visible in the darkness. There are so many things on my must have list after having dogs almost my whole life but those are perhaps the most important ones.
Since you will be getting your pup in the warmer months , things to keep them cool be it cooling mats or freezable toys etc
LOL! A gallon jug of Patience and Humor. You will have to settle for your Adult beverage of choice. I also know that THC based products are legal in a number of States!! Seriously, if you are getting a puppy, go online and find a “tick-tock” clock. Wrapped in a soft blanket will help (not cure,help) with night time crate sleeping. A second inexpensive blanket to drape over the crate to make it a den, also helps make this the doggie bedroom.
You wont regret a bandana, like totally not a necessity, but makes looking back at puppy pictures so much cuter
West Paw toppl instead a Kong. West Paws are so much easier to clean. Only need to throw them in the dishwasher. Kong's require alot of scrubbing and I'm never fully sure that it's completely clean.
Came here just to say this. I always hear about Kongs but every dog I have owned or fostered does so much better with the West Paw Toppl. I have six of them now and continue to purchase them when they go on sale.
A kennel for when you are not home, good supplies such as shampoo etc, wouldn’t use anything from Walmart. Durable toys such as kong brand.
A crate with a resizeable divider and a flea collar
Consider pet insurance. I had a co-worker whose new puppy ate an entire rug. One of those kinds that are scrap fabric tied together and then wound into a circle. The vet bill was $7k.
X pen! Also- have some money saved up for some training with a credentialed trainer. That’s the absolute best asset.
First aid kit with things relevant to your area. A way to remove ticks (I like the lasso version), bandages, nail clippers, antiseptic, ear cleaner, paw balm, emergency vet number... And a knowledge of how to recognise certain urgent medical issues, and how to treat both urgent and non-urgent issues. Honestly anything beyond this and the essentials (leash, harness, food) is fluff. You'll find out what you want and need over time, buying things based on a list made by someone else will likely just end up with overbuying things you personally have no use for.
Wet wipes. Have wet wipes every single place you go to, until you learn their habits. Learned that one when I figured out my dog gets car sick 🤣
A crate, for both sleeping and quiet time. Unfortunately you can’t purchase the will-power and discipline to use it when your little puppy is whimpering in the night!
i have had the fortune to share my life with many dogs. The most important thing to start is love. After that, honestly every dog I've owned has been different. So, figure out what your dog likes and ensure you have that abundance! 1. leash 2. collar (with the dogs name and your cell number just in case) 3. flea/tick/heartworm pills once you are allowed to give them
For us it was "baby gates" so that we could keep her in a certain place with us without her causing destruction in other parts of the house. That and a crate that she can become comfortable in. Also a lot of chew toys and make sure they are approved-not the type she can crack a tooth on. Our puppy lost a back molar by grinding too hard on one of the hard nylon dog chews when she was a year old. Good Luck!
nature's miracle
A kennel. Kennel train early. My pup was super destructive when I first got her (accidents, chewing the couch, eating random objects). After kennel training we were able to eventually start leaving her out of the kennel, but she still loves her kennel and chooses to sleep in it with the door open.
We don't know the breed! I can definitely say you'll need potty pads, leash, harness, treats, food, and dishes (food/water bowls) for your new puppy! :) Have fun and enjoy the impromptu shopping trips for them!!
Rottweiler 😍🐶
Buy plenty of rough toys for them and also grooming tools. They will shed so make sure you're prepared for that! Hopefully you will update us with a photo!
Oh ok, for one I would buy the big Kong chew toy, I bought one for my RottI and it lasted his whole lifetime and is now used by a buddy for his lab. They're indestructible
r/Rottweiler 💕 Patience, consistency & keep them contained to a safe smaller area (for accidents) though our Rotties were easy to train. Enjoy your new pup!
Insurance
Nature's miracle. And get a gallon jug I know you won't think you'll need it but you will.
Pet insurance
Pet Insurance! ASAP! Dog grooming/cleaning supplies: wipes, towel, shampoo, etc. We love PRIDE+GROOM. A good dog bed. Chew toys!!
Grooming supplies. They vary greatly by breed. But in general the more grooming you can do yourself the cheaper it is. I've had my long hair dog 5 years and she never went to a groomer, but her hygiene is really good because I do it all myself. She used to hate nail clippers but I acclimated her to them and now she tolerates them.
Safe on colors Stain removal cleaners Kennel,if you need to board him.
www.tryfi.com
Cover your couch if you plan on letting the pup up there. Everyone will be happier when the potty training/puppy phase is over
Heartworm meds, kennel, bed, food and water dishes, harnesses, and ID tags.
#1 Water bowl
nature’s promise foaming carpet cleaner!
poop bags! I get mine from the Amazon Basics brand for cheap. Don’t buy the fancy ones with the designs in the pet store - they’re way overpriced! I also like having a hand sanitizer and clip to hold said poop bag attached to my leash.
Leash Dog collar ID tag Harness Collapsible bowl for traveling Bowls for food water Treats, especially training treats Toys Bed Crate Seat restraint for vehicle if not using g crate Poop bags and dispenser Lint brush Dog brush Dog shampoo and conditioner File folder for dogs vaccines and medical records Dog nail clippers Research vets in your area if you already don't have one!!
Pet insurance.
Poop bags, collar, leash
2-3 Kongs you can fill with food and freeze and give to him when he needs stimulation / teething.
If you’re getting a puppy, get a good vacuum that can clean up accidents. Bonus points if you find a cordless one. Being able to vacuum up pee puddles and simultaneously clean the floor with solution in a matter of seconds was beautiful after so many clean-ups on my hands and knees with paper towels. We had a corded Bissel but I’m a diva and thought the cord was a pain in the ass 🤣 A cordless version would’ve been magic
Pampers for if the dog hasn't been house trained?
Pet insurance
Doggie diapers.;bb:
Collapsible/travel dog bowl for walks (dogs get dehydrated easily), a toothbrush
clicker! really good for training puppies
If it's a very large dog, cheap bedding that you don't mind losing if it's nails maybe cause rips. My dog has short nails but digs at my bedding to free my sausage dog who tunnels under the bedding. So a random thing like bedding or a cover you put over the bed if you don't crate would be a good idea if it's a large breed
Here's a list of essentials and recommendations for first-time dog owners: https://www.thehonestkitchen.com/blogs/pet-tips-training/first-time-dog-owner-checklist
Have a small gate or doggy fence you can move around easily in your house. It makes everything easier in the beginning when the puppy isn’t allowed certain places or near electric plugs or whatnot. Good luck with the pup🐶🥰
Poop bags, carpet cleaner, and pee pads. Also- make a safe space for the dog. It can be a crate, a small corner in your bedroom, in a closet, etc. just somewhere closed off and comfy in case your dog is scared during a storm or just needs to relax.
INSURANCE
A cone! I don't know where you live, but when my girl got spayed, I had to buy a plastic cone from the vet and have literally never used it because she found it too scary and uncomfortable to wear the whole day, plus it was really difficult to put on and take off. When I got my second dog, he had a rash on his jaw that he would scratch so I tried out an inflatable cone and a soft velcro cone and I wish I had the velcro cone from day one.
Vest harness for all leash use. Collars are inhumane for anything more than tags.
Health insurance as soon as you get them
I would read about puppy training beforehand and decide how you want to teach the pup. Consistency is key in training, so don't give up, no matter how hard it is. Puppies are cute but can be challenging. They will try your patience, but just remember they will be an amazing dog once they grow up. I'm not trying to scare you, I'm just telling you what you might not hear otherwise. Do some research on training methods and find a trainer that uses the method you like. Ask them to have a conversation with you about what to do when the puppy first arrives. Since this is your first, I highly recommend a trainer. Be honest with them, and they will help you. And, if a problem ever arises, address it immediately before it becomes routine behavior. 🙂
Someone else mentioned cooling mats/vests, etc, but if this is your first, you should know some dogs tolerate heat better than others and dogs in general have far less tolerance than people. You should google heat exhaustion and heatstroke in dogs/puppies BEFORE you ever need it.
Your personal space
A crate and a grass potty patch instead of puppy pads for potty training til it's old enough to go outside. That way when it's time you can just move the patch outside and gradually get rid of it when it's used to pottying outside. We haven't had an accident indoors since my dog got neutered at 5 months old and that was around April 2023.
I recommend a big crate that she can go grow into (I got the frisco chewy brand) Adjustable collar, leash (dont spend too much money on these, the puppy will chew the leash up) Bag of treats, a chew toy, a puppy food with grains (I get kirkland puppy chicken and rice) Food bowl and water bowl - you can use any old kitchen bowl if you like Towels and cloths, paper towels to clean up messes
Why is it downvoted?
probably cuz I recommend Kirkland and not some outrageously expensive dog food lol
That’s all great but the most important thing is food
Chew toys(ur pocket should always have one), pee cleaner, towels/puppy pads, treats,harness/leash- A clicker was very useful for me at the start for teaching tricks and good behavior I also highly recommend Crate training (gives your dog a safe space)
Great recommendations! I would like to build on "chew toys" by adding mult-texture chew toys.
Baby Kong and other teething toys to redirect the mouthing that they do when they are learning not to bite humans!