Preparing for a New Puppy
You’ve made the decision to bring home a new puppy, and between brainstorming names and picking out cute toys, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement! That’s why it’s a good idea to create a list of everything that you’ll need to make sure you’re prepared.
Crates and Gates
Pet crates and gates can be some of the most useful tools when bringing home and training a new puppy. As it will take a while for your companion to get used to their new home, a crate can help them feel safe and secure.
When selecting a gate, the size of your dog should be one of the first things you consider. If your dog is a larger breed (or happens to be a talented jumper), be sure the gate you select is tall enough to keep them contained. Even if they’re small now – keep in mind how quickly they will grow! For smaller breeds, it’s important to examine the spacing between each bar as some dogs may be small enough to squeeze through. If you’re planning to install a gate that will be up in your home for a while, consider purchasing a walk-through gate. As these types of gates have latches and swinging doors, they offer a convenient option as you won’t have to hop over the gate each time you enter or exit the room!
Pet Licensing
After you’ve brought your new furry friend home, it’s important that you remember to get them licensed. DocuPet works with communities to boost funding for animal services by helping to increase pet license sales. In Ontario, only 13% of pet owners purchase mandatory pet licenses, yet 60% of animal shelter funding comes from pet licensing revenue (Source: DocuPet). We’ve partnered with DocuPet to help make each pet license as valuable to you as it is to animal welfare in our community – license your pet with DocuPet to receive a $25 Ren’s voucher, free HomeSafe Lost Pet service and tags linked to a secure online profile!
Collars, Leashes and Harnesses
From front and back clip harnesses to training collars, there are a variety of devices that can help train and control your new pup! As your puppy will be growing quickly, consider purchasing an adjustable collar or harness so that it won’t have to be replaced soon. Limited slip collars can be used as an effective tool in training your dog to walk on a leash. These collars will deliver a gentle correction to your beloved companion if they try to pull while on a walk, without a choking effect.
These types of devices should only be used when you’re training or supervising your dog, but there are plenty of standard collars, leashes and harnesses available to suit puppies of all sizes and breeds!
Training Pads
When it comes to potty training your pup, puppy pads can be a lifesaver! Featuring thick absorbent layers and a built-in attractant, your puppy will be encouraged to take care of their business on the pad and prevent any unwanted messes and stains on your carpets and floors!
Another great tool for house training your puppy, the Skip to my Loo house training scent is created to encourage your dog to take care of their business in a specific spot! Featuring a unique attractant formula that mimics animal urine, this eco-friendly product is safe for pets, people and the planet and can be used indoors and outdoors. Whether training your dog to use the yard, pee pads or the Pet Loo toilet, this formula is the perfect house training tool!
Toys
It’s no secret that puppies love to chew and being prepared with suitable toys at home can help keep them happy! Made with unique KONG Classic puppy rubber, the KONG Puppy Teething Stick features denta-ridges that gently clean and soothe your pup’s sore gums when chewed. Also made with KONG Classic puppy rubber, the unique shape of the KONG Binkie is designed to soothe sore teeth and gums and teach puppies appropriate chewing behavior.
Bowls
As you won’t initially know what your new fur baby’s eating habits are like, consider purchasing non-tip food and water bowls. These can be great tools for preventing spills and messes in your kitchen, whether your pup gets too excited while eating or you’re still getting used to having bowls on your floor! As your furry friend grows and you get used to their eating habits, there are a wide variety of bowls and feeders available to suit any dog.
