10 Dog Supplies to Get Before Bringing Your New Pet Home

There are so many kinds of dog supplies available for new pet parents that you may wonder what is really necessary and what is extravagant. Realistically, there are multiple factors that contribute to a happy, healthy life for your dog, ranging from their grooming needs to any health concerns. When purchasing dog supplies, meet your pup's basic needs and practice responsible dog ownership. Then you can move on to the fun details, like bandanas for every season and life jackets for summer swimming.

Here are 10 essential dog supplies you need before bringing home your new dog.

01 of 10

Collar or Harness

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When it comes to essential dog supplies, every dog should have a collar or harness, period. This collar or harness should ALWAYS be equipped with your dog’s current identification tags. Microchips are a great way to supplement identification tags, but they are not acceptable replacements in the event your dog is lost. Beyond identification, collars or harnesses are used with leashes to safely walk your dog (and some are designed to prevent pulling). Plus, they are a great way to show off your dog’s personal style (and your own, too)!
02 of 10

Leashes

Every dog needs a leash, and each should be trained to walk on the leash without pulling. Chances are your dog will be subject to leash laws at one time or another, even if there are no leash laws in your area. You may even want to keep multiple types of leashes around the house for multiple uses. For fun, you can coordinate your dog’s leash and collar to maximize style.
03 of 10

Beds

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The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Your dog should have a special place to go and snuggle up, whether it is an old pillow that is just right, or a specific style of dog bed. Dog beds come in many designs to fit the needs of all kinds of dogs. Try to get a bed for each dog in the house, plus one extra. Or, you could get a larger bed for dogs who like to share.
04 of 10

Crate

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Dog kennels, or crates, can be a wonderful thing for most dogs. Similar to a dog bed, having a kennel can give your dog a place to retreat and feel secure. Crate training is an integral part of potty training and can also play a role in other types of training. Additionally, kennels can really come in handy for travel. So, once he is accustomed to his crate, you can introduce him to a backpack carrier, travel stroller, and more.

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05 of 10

Variety of Toys

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There are very few dogs that do not enjoy their toys. Some prefer a nice loud squeaky toy, while others want to play fetch or tug-of-war. Play is an important part of your dog’s development. Playing with toys often mimics the activities dogs would perform in the wild, such as chewing or retrieving. Plus, they help keep your dog active and stimulated, especially when using puzzle toys or other enrichment toys.
06 of 10

Grooming Supplies

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All dogs need some degree of grooming, whether it's frequent trims or just occasional baths, depending on their coat type. You will need to find grooming tools that suit your dog’s overall grooming requirements, including brushes, shampoos, and even conditioner. Talk to your vet or groomer for advice for your particular dog. All dogs need nail trims, but the size of your dog will determine the type of nail trimmers needed. Don't forget other grooming essentials, including dog-specific toothbrushes and toothpaste.
07 of 10

Food and Water Bowls

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Obviously, food and water are necessary for your dog to survive and remain healthy. The main types of food and water bowls to choose from include plastic, stainless steel, ceramic, silicon, and elevated. Stainless steel is one of our preferred options because it's durable, doesn't scratch easily (which can lead to trapped bacteria), and it's easy to clean. Whichever option you choose, be sure to regularly wash the bowls with warm water and soap to eliminate bacteria and odors.
08 of 10

Dog Food

The type of food you choose to give your dog has a major impact on your dog’s overall health. With so many choices out there, picking out the best foods can be a daunting task. Always consult with your veterinarian when choosing the right food for your dog, and discuss specific formulations like puppy, adult, and senior food.

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09 of 10

Preventive Products

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Just like we need to take good care of ourselves to ward off illness, preventive measures should be taken to protect your dog’s health. This may include vitamins and supplements, heartworm prevention, flea prevention such as a flea collar or flea chemical, and dental care. Your veterinarian will prescribe the appropriate treatments based on your location and your pet’s individual needs.
10 of 10

Extras

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There are numerous dog accessories out there for recreation, protection, or just plain fun. For example, you might choose to get a seat belt to make car rides safer and a doggie doormat to protect your floors. Or, your whippet might need a dog jacket for freezing winters. Sometimes, you just can’t resist buying that cute bow or bandana. From clothing to safety devices, the possibilities are endless. Just remember to cover their basic needs first, then spoil them with all the extras after that.