By Charles Scheepers
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7405661
You may already have your new pet dog or perhaps seriously looking at getting one. Many people who want to be responsible puppy owners may be unsure on what to get for a new puppy. Below we have set out a "puppy guide" of the most important things you need to look at to enhance your new puppy's life.
Food - Your puppy will need to be fed the same as what the puppy breeder have been feeding it. A change in your dog's diet at this age is not recommended and therefore you should inquire from the breeding kennel owner what they have been feeding. Most likely they will supply you with a starter pack that is the same as what the dog had been eating. If not, you may have to stop by your local pet shop or vet to get the right food.
Bed and Bedding - The next thing you will want to get is a bed or crate of some from where your new pup can sleep and feel safe. The more expensive but probably the better option in the long run will be to get a dog crate. A crate that you can split in half - able to remove the top from the bottom half - and using the bottom part as a house or bed in your kitchen or area you prefer. Another purpose of a crate is that you can use it for pet travel.
Baskets and dog beds can be really useful but they serve only one purpose - a place for the dog to sleep. Not that this is a bad thing. There are some really cool baskets or dog beds available online or from your local pet supply dealer.
Food and Water Bowls - I would suggest that you purchase two stainless steel bowls. They are easy to clean, last forever and your doggy will not be able to chew on them. Water should always be available and accessible to your puppy and the bowls should be cleaned on a regular basis. There are different types available, but here I would opt for the more expensive types that have a flat base that cannot be knocked over.
Collar and Leash - This is unfortunately always a work in progress as your new puppy grows. I have always preferred to get a leather collar to start with. They are light, durable and adjustable. You may have to take your puppy with when buying this as there are a million different types and sizes available.
Getting a lead that is medium or longish length will do just fine. A Short lead may find you on the short end of the leash - so to speak. Puppies are small and you do not want to be walking hunched over all the time. Retractable leashes are fine too, but I would only start using it when the dog is a little older and used to being handled on a leash.
Toys and Chews - The main purpose of toys are to keep your new puppy occupied and away from shoes, furniture and other things to chew on when it is bored or when those teeth start itching. Toys should be of the type that is not stuffed as your puppy may choke or eat the stuffing. There are some really awesome toys available online or from your pet-supplies shop. Chewy toys also serve a dual purpose giving the pup something to chew on and also something to play with at the same time. Compressed rawhide chews will be more suited when the dog is a little older as I have had puppies lose their teeth when small, but rawhide is the best type of chews to get for your dog.
Poop Bags - These are available from your pet shop or alternatively you can just use a small plastic shopping bag. To pick up poop, you simply put the bag over your hand like a glove, pick up the items and then turn it inside out like you would when taking off a glove. Tie it at the top, that way it will leave no smell and you can get rid of it at a convenient time and place.
Poop Scooper - a Poop Scooper is a really handy tool to have at home to get rid of those unwanted little items. I personally think that using poop bags are just as handy and a lot less costly.
Nail Clippers - Dog's nails grow just like their human friends' and they do need regular clipping. There is a bit of skill involved clipping a puppy's nails, but once you master this simple procedure, it will save you from going to a specialist to have it done.
Veterinarian Appointment - You need to see your vet fairly soon with your new puppy to get your dog's first 6-in-1 injection and also de-wormed. Your animal healthcare specialist will also give the pup a good check-up for general health and wellbeing.
Carpet Cleaning Solution - Your puppy is due to have an accident on a carpet when they first arrive and may even do it repeatedly on the same spot. Carpet cleaning solution will help you clean the spot away and afterwards you can dab the carpet with a damp vinegar soaked cloth. That will help get rid of unwanted odours and will also help eliminate stains.
These are the ten most important things to get for a new puppy when they first arrive. Other than that they will demand a lot of attention and love and be prepared to receive a lot of enjoyment out of your new family member.
Tip: In the first few days keep a sharp eye on your puppy - especially after having a meal - and as soon as it show signs of making a piddle or a poop, pick it up, take it outside and put it on the grass to do its business there. Reward it with a snack and praise when it does. It will soon learn to do it outside rather than inside.
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