So, you’ve decided to get a furry friend? Well, congrats on your decision as there’s probably no better excitement than having these loyal friends around. In fact, the whole place lights up with their presence, especially if you are getting a puppy or a dog with high energy levels. However, deciding on the type of dog is the least of your worries, as there are a whole lot of things and preparations needed to get your dog in shape and proper care. Yes, getting a dog is a big decision, considering so many factors. However, deciding on the accessories to get to live comfortably with your dog is entirely on a different scale.
Most Important Dog Accessories For Beginners
When adopting your dog or puppy, you are faced with an endless list of supplies. This can be confusing for beginners since they are practically new to it. Today, taking a walk in any pet convenience store is even enough to confuse veteran dog owners, as there are aisles of premium treats, toys of different sizes, different cage size, plush beds, and even doggy haute couture. Yes, there are so many dog supplies that you begin to wonder if some are necessary or extravagant. At this point, you decide to prioritize on what’s necessary and optional, since the health and happiness of your dog is your priority.
Basic Accessories
Without these accessories, then your dog adoption is a disaster waiting to happen. A dog’s basic supplies include; a collar, identification tag, a food bowl, a crate or shelter, a local veterinarian; yes, they are basic dog accessories, and dog food. Mind you, the listed accessories are the only accessories, but they are the first point of call before you can think of any other accessories. You definitely can’t be thinking of toys before you get a dog’s food. So, let’s take a further look at the basic accessories.
1. Collars : This should be one of your priority when adopting a puppy or dog. Yes, every dog needs a collar or harness, since it contains basic information about the owner, in case the dog gets lost. What’s more?; it can be attached to a leash to aid movement and prevent disturbance while taking a walk with the dog. There are different types of collars available, but it’s better to pick the flat collar, which is made of nylon, leather, or fabric and fastened with a buckle. However, for your puppy’s first collar, an adjustable nylon type is preferable. Mind you, while fitting the collar, make sure it’s not tight – you can test this by placing two fingers between the collar and the neck. As a beginner, I’ll advise you to get a HOT DOG Collar +leash, since it’s durable and stain-resistant. You can also get a Zehui New Blue Nylon LED Dog Night Safety Collar.
2. Crates : Most new dog owners balk at the idea of getting crates for their new dog. Why?; they think it confines and causes inconvenience to the dog. Well, that notion is wrong, as dogs love a cozy den; since it gives them a sense of security and privacy. Just like all other dog accessories, there are different types of crates, each with its own pros and cons. Wooden crates are bulky, expensive, and quite difficult to clean. Wire crates provide more ventilation, and are easy to clean; some people drape clothes over this cage to give it a cave-like feel.
Plastic crates are also easy to clean, maintain, and are lightweight. You should try going for the last two types since they are portable, and can be lugged around. So, what’s the ideal size of a cage?. Well, it depends on the size of a puppy or dog. The cage should be large enough for the dog to stand up in, and also turn around. Don’t make the mistake of getting a large crate for a puppy, since it might turn a part to its potty area. You can get Petmate Two Door Top Load, and BestPet Playpen.
3. Identification tag : This is very important in cases where you lose your dog. It helps anyone who finds your pet to contact you. Most owners usually forget about filling this identification tag. The tag is easily attached to the collar. However, for safety reasons, you can insert a microchip containing your information into the dog.
4. Bedding : Once again, there are different types of dog beds; from the soft orthopedic bed to the washable waterproof bed. There are so many choices, but your priority should be to get a bed that allows the dog to max out. Getting a large bed ensures that your dog doesn’t get uncomfortable. Mind you, if the dog or puppy is likely to chew or gnaw on things, it’s better to wait till it outgrows the habit before getting the bed. You can try the following dog beds; Ultimate Memory Foam Lounger, Serta Orthopedic Quilted Couch, and XXL Overstuffed Orthopedic Dog Pillow.
5. Food and Water Bowl : When you bring your dog home, you will need a food and drink bowl. There are different types of food bowl available; from the least expensive ones like the plastic bowls and crocks to the expensive ones; glass bowls, ceramics, and stainless steel. Some of the bowls are easy to clean in the dishwasher, but you should watch out for the dents which tend to harbor bacteria. Glass and ceramic bowls are likely to crack. If you prefer a ceramic-type, then the Cloud 7 Chalk Dog Bowl or the Gold Geo dog bowl is a good fit. You can also get a combined stainless feed bowl like the Lola and Daisy Designs Curved Raised Dog Feeder.
6 Dog food 
: The type of food determines a dog’s overall health. Today, it’s easy to get confused with the huge variety of dog food available. Most people just pick up a random dog food off the shelf without making inquiries about the nutrient content. As a novice you can start with these top brands; Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine, and Merrick Grain Free.
Additional Accessories
The accessories mentioned above cater to the basic needs of your dog – ensures comfort. However, a dog needs more than these basic needs to be happy. Additional accessories like treats, toys, grooming supplies, and exercise pen, are necessary.
1. Dog treats : Yes, we love to give treats to dogs after the completion of specific task or training. It’s like a special bonus for a job well done. Treats are filled with great-tasting ingredients and high nutrient content. However, they shouldn’t make up more than 10% of a dog’s diet. There are different types of dog treat; from the crunchy ones to the soft treat to the freeze-dried treat. Crunchy treats are available in a variety of sizes, flavors, and shapes. Crunchy treats are good for everyday rewards. Soft treats are chewy and are available in a variety of shapes, flavors, and sizes. They are good for immediate satisfaction after training. Freeze-dried treats are similar to human food, and they are available in different varieties; poultry, liver, beef, and seafood. Other types of treats include pig ears, animal hoof, rawhide, and special diet treats.
2. Toys : Whether it’s a squeaky mouse or stuffed lions, puppies love their toys. Choosing a toy for your puppy requires much thought since there are different types of toys available. There are chew toys which are made of rubber. Chewy toys are durable, and they help to strengthen the dog’s teeth. However, stuffed toys get damaged easily. Furthermore, damaged stuffed toys are easily swallowed by dogs. You can also get them critical-thinking toys which help them to break a puzzle before getting a treat. For your dogs, you can try Nylabone Galileo Natural Nearly Indestructible Bone, or KONG Wild Knots Bears Durable Dog Toys.
3. Grooming Supplies : The grooming supplies are determined by the type of breed you get. For dogs with a long coat like poodles and Yorkshire terrier, you need lots of supplies since their coats tend to tangle. For breeds with short coats, there’s usually less grooming needed. Irrespective of the breed, pups need constant grooming. So, it’s important to have your grooming supplies at hand. Blow dryer, Bristle brush, Comb, Conditioning spray, Cotton balls, Shampoo and conditioner, Slicker brush, Styptic powder, Toothbrush and dog toothpaste, Towels, Ear cleaning solution, Grooming table or grooming area, Nail clippers, and Scissors.
4. Exercise Pen : Security is key for every living creature. This pen restricts dogs to certain areas in the house. Due to the high energy level of some breeds, it’s important to set boundaries to safeguard their safety. This exercise pen increases the mobility of the puppy, thereby making it feel less caged.