Basic Equipment Needs for Your Puppy or Dog

Now that you have decided on a puppy or adult dog for your pet, you need to have some basic equipment on hand for their arrival. Your new family member needs to have proper identification, secure housing, nutritious food, exercise and mental stimulation.

The following are basic equipment needs:

Collars and Tags - An inexpensive collar is best to start with for a puppy. As the puppy grows to an adult, you will need to purchase a larger collar which you may want to pay more money. This collar will last your dog a number of years. While you are at the pet store, you should purchase a tag engraved with the dog's name and your telephone number.

Leads - Leads are used for walking your dog and for training your dog. A long lead should be used for training to ensure that your dog responds to your command. A shorter lead can be used for walking your dog if it has responded to training. If you let your dog off its lead, watch it carefully. If he does not come back to you, you should walk it with the long lead.

Beds/Bedding - Your dog will need its own personal space. Its bed is personal space. There are manydifferent types of dog beds. The bedding should be washable and non-irritating and should fit snugly in the bed. You also want to make sure the bed fits the size of the dog.

Food/Water Bowls - Bowls can be of various materials such as ceramic or stainless steel. The food bowl should be cleaned after each meal. Wash the water bowl before replenishing it. You should make sure that your dog has plenty of fresh water.

Toys - Dogs like to tug, chase, and chew on items. You should make sure that the toys you purchase are sturdy. You do not want toys that are easily damaged or have parts that can be swallowed. For playing indoors with your dog, you may want to get a rubber or rope tug toy. If you have the space in your home, you may want to get rubber toys or plush toys that can be thrown in a clear space for the dog to chase. When playing outside, the Frisbee is very popular. The dog watches the flight path and retrieves it. There are many other toys to select from - some make noises.

Crates - Crates can be used as a bed and it is also used for training. By training your dog to eat, play, and sleep in the crate, it will be easier to use it to transport your dog. There are extended versions of the crate which are "playpens." If your puppy has not been house-trained, it can be lined with newspapers and your pet placed in it when you have to be away from home. The crate should never be used for punishment. It is should be a safe haven for your dog.

Check your local laws for regulations regarding dogs in public spaces. Some areas require that dogs be muzzled to avoid conflict with other dogs and in play areas when children are present. Most require that you carry poop scoopers to pick up waste in public spaces.

When you walk through the pet store, look through catalogs, or search the Internet, you will find dozens of items that meet the basic requirements for your puppy or dog.

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