Are you about to adopt a pup? First of all, congratulations!

Secondly, let us give you a hand with a few tips on what you’ll need for this new adventure.

Food & Water Bowls

Make sure you have all the basics covered, and this is one of the most important. Make sure you get bowls that are large enough to spread out your dog’s portion of food into a single layer – this keeps them from eating too quickly, which can become a behavioral and health issue. You’ll also want to consider the materials used. Dishwasher-safe bowls are the best because they will make it easier for you to consistently clean them. And of course, you’ll want to choose something that coordinates with your décor.

Leash or Harness

In order to keep your dog safe while taking a walk, spending time at community events, or even traveling to and from the vet, you’ll need a good leash or harness. Once again, it’s important to take several factors into consideration, including the dog’s breed, age, prior experience with leashes/harnesses, and lead length. Check out Daily Paws’ breakdown of some of the best leashes and harnesses on the market to help you make the right decision.

Collar

One thing that is essential for dog owners to understand is that dog collars must be a perfect fit in order to be effective. Measure your dog’s neck with flexible measuring tape and hold it flush against their bodies, without pulling or holding it tightly. When you go to purchase a collar, be aware that most are labeled with the measurement of the collar, not the neck measurement it will accommodate. Stick with adjustable length collars so you can get the best fit possible. Use the “two-finger rule”-- you should be able to fit two fingers between their collar and their neck. Check out The Spruce’s picks for best collars of 2022.

Bed

You’ll want to create a cozy bed for your new dog to relax in right away. Make sure it has soft, comfortable fabric, and that it’s big enough for your new pup. And make sure it’s washable so you can just toss it in the washer when it gets dirty.

And don’t forget to pick up a few treats!

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