A Must-Read Checklist of Supplies for a First-Time Dog Owner

To a dog owner, a dog is a family. If you’re a first-time dog owner, you might be anxious about how to make your new family member feel comfortable at home. Though there’s a ton you can do for your pet, here are some of the basic and most essential supplies you might want to have at your home from day one of becoming a dog owner. ~ Ed.

If you are reading this article, this means you’re about to welcome a new dog as your family member.

Congratulations! Dogs are surely amazing and now that you’re already committing, it becomes a new responsibility to prepare supplies for ensuring his/her wellbeing.

Don’t get yourself overwhelmed, I am writing this article to sort things out and provide you with a comprehensive list of the essential things a first-time dog owner may need.

5 Recommended Supplies to Prepare for a First-Time Dog Owner

Your first thoughts might be a collar and leash for your dog. That’s right. You will also require grooming supplies and a dog crate as well. Here’s all you need to get started as a first-time dog owner.

Food, Treats, and Bowls

The first important thing to prepare is what your dog is going to eat. With a wide variety of dog food brands and types, it is best to ask the previous owner, rescuer, or your local vet about their recommendation.

Eventually, be sure to check on the label of nutritional facts and ingredients for the final verdict, because nutrient content is what matters the most. Furthermore, don’t skip buying dog treats. Treats are good to be given as a training tool as well as to forge a close bond between the owner and their furry friend. 

Secondly, you’ll need two sturdy bowls for mealtime; one for food and one for a drink. Few factors to consider when buying the food bowls are their durability and if the product is easy to clean.

Among other options, stainless steel bowls rank highest compared to ceramic and plastic bowls. They can be cleaned in a minute with just using a regular dishwasher and won’t be broken even if you throw them away. Ceramics are breakable, while plastics are more difficult to clean.

Dog Gate and Exercise Pen

Sometimes there are certain areas in your house that you don’t want your dog to be at, and for this reason, you’ll need a dog gate to limit his access. These gates come in many different sizes, configurations, and materials to choose from. Some are made exclusively for dogs but you can still purchase the ones that are made for babies.

Among a wide range of variety, it is best to pick the one made from strong yet non-toxic material and make sure it is also easy to set or dismantle for an easy installation. In terms of sizes, consider purchasing once you know the exact size of your dog to ensure their compatibility, i.e.; the gate is not too short. 

Alternatively, an exercise pen can be a great substitute if you happen to not have a room to confine your dog. This is a great way to confine your dog into a small area without making him feel isolated or locked up.

Grooming Supplies

Picking up some grooming supplies will need some careful considerations to suit your dog’s needs and condition. Some dog breeds with longer hair, for example, will need more special treatments with their hair, particularly poodle, Shih Tzu, etc.

If you only rely on a salon to clean and groom your dog, it will be challenging to ensure that they stay clean and look their best every day. For that reason, I recommend preparing basic grooming supplies, like dog shampoo, brush, hair scissors, nail trimmers, toothbrushes, and toothpaste. Don’t hesitate to consult with your vet or pet shop about the brand that’s suitable for your particular dog.

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Beds and Crates

Thinking about where your dog should sleep during the day or at night? Many veterinarians strongly recommend using a crate as a safe place where your dog can curl up peacefully and have some privacy.

Dog crates are available in several basic types of materials, such as wire, plastics, and woods. Among other types, people tend to opt for pet wire crates as it is easier to clean, and facilitates a great airflow through ventilation. Also, don’t forget to choose the one that fits into your dog’s height and size, even when he stands up in it or changes his position by turning around.

Another tip is to add a dog bed as a base of the crate for extra comfort. Most of these beds come in removable covers so you can easily wash the cover when it gets dirty.              

Collar, Tags, and Leash

Since your dog will need to go out for a walk, other necessities that are no less important for you to buy are a collar, tags, and leash. For the collar, consider picking the one with soft-leather or nylon materials.

This collar should be worn as personal identification with ID attached to it, and don’t forget to put your name and phone number on it for identification purposes in case he gets lost. Lastly, don’t forget to get a leash. Find the one that’s strong, secure, and easy to use but preferably not too heavy and making your dog feel uncomfortable due to its weight. 

Summing Up

Having a dog is surely a rewarding journey since they will take your money for all the essentials mentioned above, your time for their needs of companionship, and your energy. But it’s all worth it because there will be affection and loyalty that come along with it.

Thus, by reading this article we hope that you get a bigger picture of what it takes to own a dog and consider your own readiness. If it assures you that you can be a dog owner, then promise yourself to be a responsible parent for them. Just like how the wise quote says, ‘to the world you are one person, but to your dog, you are the world’.

Over to you

What items do you prepare to welcome your first dog? Share your tips and thoughts on becoming a first-time dog owner in the comment section down below.