New Puppy?
Here are some of my favorite things and some things to help you get started...
NOTE: Some of the links below are to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This doesn't cost you any extra, and I spend my vast earnings (just kidding) on puppy toys!
Health Stuff - I follow the UC Davis VMTH Vaccination Guidelines. Puppies will have had age-appropriate vaccination(s), deworming, a physical, and an eye exam, before they go home.
Training Stuff - How to have a Perfect Puppy in 7 Days! Watch some puppy raising videos! (AKC: housebreaking, nipping & chewing, jumping up; kikopup puppy videos).
A crate is wonderful for short-term confinement, sleeping in, or crate training, although you will probably find that your KissMe Kennel puppy is pretty much already housebroken. Since my puppies live with other adult dogs with free access to the outdoors after about 4 weeks old, they learn from the older dogs to do their business outside. A wire cage is nice because it easily folds down flat like a suitcase (recommend the 36" size). Another very useful item is the exercise pen (x-pen) - get one that is 36 inches tall.
If you are going to travel with your dog by air, then you will need an airline approved kennel. Tip for making your puppy LOVE their crate - feed them their meals in the crate!
I am currently feeding Kirkland Signature Super Premium Adult Dog kibble, available at Costco. Look up different brands on the Dog Food Advisor. Here is my absolute favorite dog bed - Kuranda - it is literally chewproof! They love fleece. I order my fleece online from JoAnn.com.
The best food and water dishes are made of stainless steel. A slip lead is the best kind of leash. A lightweight long line is a great training tool - use with a slip collar. I do not leave collars on my dogs all the time. Instead, get your puppy microchipped!
Basic grooming tools include an undercoat rake, a pin brush, a slicker brush, and nail clippers. Ivory Liquid is what I use for shampoo for routine grooming. For daily brushing, this leave-in spray is awesome!!
The Kong that you can stuff with treats is great for keeping them occupied when they have to be confined. There are many choices for food puzzle toys. Knuckle bones are also highly valued by dogs and puppies alike. Cheese sticks are great for training treats, as are the soft liver treats you can get at the pet store. Cut up hot dogs work nicely too.