Picking up a new furry friend is undeniably a very exciting stage for any fur parent and it doesn't even matter if it's your first time or your hundredth time. The excitement really never dies out.
If you are overwhelmed with the preparations before you pick up your dog and you don't know what to start shopping for, then this list might help you out a bit. Basically, there's really not much that you need contrary to the tons of options for dog "essentials" in the shops.
Food and treats
You should consult with your veterinarian on what could be the best diet to start your dog with and the right dose. If you are picking up your dog and won't be visiting the vet for a few days, I suggest you go for a smaller pack of a good brand dog food may it be a wet or dry food. On the first few meals, observe how your dog responds to the food you are serving him and adjust accordingly.
For treats, young puppies do not and cannot chew on hard treats so prepare the tasty chewy options. Try not to buy too much food for your dog because you are not familiar with his preferences yet.
Crate
The crate that you purchase will largely depend on the area of your home, your dog size and your lifestyle choices. If you are looking for something to use in the long term, I suggest you get the crate that will fits your dog when it grows at its largest. This will save you tons of money because crates really do not come cheap.
It is very important to know that crates are not cages. They are not meant to "imprison" your dog just because you cannot handle its behaviour.
Crate training your dog is extremely important. Your dog should be able to voluntarily go inside his crate or at your command. His crate should be his safe place. It should never be a source of trauma for your dog.
Feeding bowls
Feeding bowls are now available at a lot of designs and sizes so just choose whatever fits your taste but stray away from elevated ones when your dog is really short. Other owners keep one set (one for kibble and another for water) each floor of their house especially if they have a puppy or a senior dog. Other than that, choosing feeding bowls is a no-brainer.
Grooming tools
You'll basically need a shampoo, hair brush (if your dog is furry) and a towel. You can step it up and also pick up a hair dryer. There are shampoos that are designed for specific age ranges and needs in dogs so that is something that you should also keep in mind when buying new grooming tools.
Toys
Just like food, it's not a very good idea to buy too much of these in the beginning. You can start off by buying one soft toy (like plushes) and one firm toy (those that are made out of rubber or plastic). While other dogs would play with both, there will be some who prefer one or the other.
Knowing your dog's toy preference is important especially in the months that they start teething. During these months, you will have to train them to chew on their toys instead of everything else in your home.
Potty pads
Whether you decide to housebreak or train your dog to do his business outside or both, having a potty pad at the first few weeks will help your dog to learn that he should not just pee everywhere. In the first few hours and on the hours that you cannot pay close attention to your dog, designate a room or enclose a space with a pet playpen with the potty pad. In my case, I did this not only to start housebreaking my dog but also to know his call of nature schedule so I can carry him over to the potty pad and wait for him to do his business.
Bed
This is not something that you should really go out and buy. If you're still starting as a fur parent, you can always use old (but clean) towels or blankets or pillows. However, if you feel like giving your dog a big welcoming present, feel free to get him a nice bed. Just know that not all dogs are fond of plush beds because they prefer to sleep on the floor instead.
I am not in any way a dog trainer or a dog expert and I am only speaking from experience. I hope everything goes well with your pupper and let us know how it went for you in the comments below!
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