Dog Care
Equipment Needed for Puppies and Adult Dogs
Before bringing a puppy home, we need to prepare a number of essential equipment and supplies. Below are the basic supplies needed for puppies to ensure that the new member of the family feels comfortable and relaxed.
Bed
Your puppy definitely needs a comfortable bed, make sure that the bed is large enough for your dog to lie down comfortably and that it does not quickly become too small for him as he grows.
There are many different types of beds and bedding for your puppy. Most puppies like to crawl on a good mattress. The bed can be a piece of artificial sheepskin or a mattress that is hygienic, easy to wash in the washing machine, hypoallergenic and resistant to chewing.
For large dogs, use a soft bed or mattress to prevent weight pressure on large dogs. Buy two of these beddings so you can use one while you wash and dry the other.
Food and water bowls
Use separate bowls for your dog's food and water. If your dog is tall, the bowls should be placed higher off the ground. Keep fresh, clean water available at all times.
Puppy Bed, Playpen, and Fence
Some dogs enjoy having a "puppy bed guard." Most dog owners find this a great way to protect their puppies from being left alone and from hurting themselves, and they prefer it over putting their little ones in a playpen or a crate.
Puppy Bed Guard
When ordering a bed for your dog, get a larger size so that your dog can sleep comfortably in it or stand up comfortably as they get older. Make sure the mesh on the guard is not so large that your dog's mouth gets caught in it. Put a bed in the crate and some toys at the end of the crate so your dog can go in and play with the toys.
If your dog sleeps in another place, gently move him to the bed in the crate.
You can gradually increase the amount of time your puppy stays in the crate, starting with you being in the room with him.
Make sure your dog has recently eaten and gone to the bathroom before you lead him into the crate, and don't leave your dog in his crate for more than a few hours during the day.
Never use the crate as a punishment area, as your puppy will hate this. Always remove the leash before putting your dog in the crate, as there is a chance that the leash will get caught in the crate.
Don't close the crate until your dog is comfortable in the crate, but close the crate door once he is used to it and is comfortable, and when your puppy is sleeping. You can open the crate door after your dog wakes up.
If your dog makes a mess in the crate, you should clean it up immediately, as your puppy will no longer like being in the crate.
You can find a wide range of crates online.
Clothing
Some dogs with short hair or dogs that have recently had their fur trimmed can feel cold, so you can use a sweater or coat for them when walking. Some puppies with longer hair can use clothing as a protection to stay clean and not get wet in winter and rainy weather.
It is best to choose clothing that fits your dog's size and that your dog feels completely comfortable in and likes. Also, never dress your puppy indoors.
Collar
Try to always use a collar that is selected based on the breed, size, and age of your puppy. Puppies grow very quickly and these collars should be checked for tightness every day. They should not be so loose that they slip over your puppy's head, nor so tight that you can't fit two fingers under them.
There are three types of collars for dogs: neck collars, shoulder collars, and waist collars. Shoulder collars and waist collars are recommended for dogs that pull too much on the collar and risk injuring their necks.
Car seat belt, carrier, or car seat protector
When traveling by car, either fasten your dog's car seat belt or place him in a carrier or place him in the back of the car with a car seat protector. A carrier provides your dog with privacy and thus ensures his safety and comfort.
Initially, accustom your dog to very short car trips. The best time to do this is when your dog is too tired to sleep in the car. If your puppy gets nauseous in the car, try placing his carrier in the back seat of the car as this is a safe place from excessive vibrations.
If you don't have enough space to carry a carrier, a car seat belt and a car seat cover are good options to make sure your dog is in a safe place.
Car Seat Covers for Dogs
Identification Tag
Under the Control of Dogs Act 1992, you are required to have the owner's name and address on the collar or on a collar tag. You can also use a microchip. This is essential in case your dog gets lost.
Dog Identification Tag
In the UK, if you don't have one,
