Whether you are a first-time puppy owner, or have decided to rescue an adult or senior dog, you’ll find yourself needing to go on a dog accessories shopping spree! After all, safety and comfort for your new canine companion are a priority. With so many different pet accessories on the market, it can be hard to distinguish between the essentials and the ‘nice to haves’. So we have put a quick guide together with the top 10 must-have dog accessories you need to buy for your pooch.
1. Collar, harness & lead
If you have bought a puppy, you won’t be able to take them outside for walks until they have had their vaccinations, but it is still worth getting a collar, lead & harness in preparation. If you can, opt for something adjustable as your puppy will outgrow things very quickly! Oh and buy a couple of leads if you can afford to. It is always a good idea to have a spare at home, then one in the car too. If you are just starting out training then a harness is much better for control than a collar.
2. Dog crate & comfy bed
A crate will become your dog’s safe place, a dedicated area in the house where it can rest & feel secure. Dog crates are also handy for training your dog, and transporting it in the car too. Getting the right size crate is incredibly important, so measure your dog (or puppy) before you buy one.
Dogs sleep for around 10-12 hours a day depending on their age, so choosing the right dog bed is really important. Comfort has to be the top priority, so take your time to do your research when it comes to dog beds.
3. Toys
If you are getting a puppy, toys are essential to help with mental stimulation (and to prevent your slippers from being chewed!). Toys are great for regulating their activity, and preventing destructive behaviour caused by boredom. If you need to leave your dog for short periods of time, toys are also a great help with separation anxiety.
4. Grooming brush
Whether your dog has a long, short, straight or curly coat, a grooming brush is an essential you should purchase. Regular grooming helps to control shedding, tangling and keeps your dog’s coat looking and feeling healthy. Stay away from combs, a brush is much better at getting to the root of the hair and getting those knots out. Grooming is a great way to bond with your dog, so try and groom them regularly.
5. Food & water bowls
Another thing that should be on your essentials shopping list is bowls - both for feed & water. Stainless steel bowls are the most popular choice, but there are so many different designs to choose from these days. Some feed bowls have raised parts to help encourage dogs to eat more slowly, promoting digestion. You can also get elevated bowls that sit on stands which are easier for senior dogs (or big dogs!). A collapsible travel bowl is always good to pop in the car too, especially for giving your dog water on those long country walks.
6. Travel equipment
If you are planning on taking your dog out on long drives, there are accessories to help keep your dog more comfortable. From booster seats to window cages, travel harnesses and more, there are lots of accessories to choose from. You can even buy hammocks that fit on the back seats of your car, to not only keep your canine friend safe, but also protects your car seats!
7. First aid kit
Lots of new pet owners often forget about first aid kits for their animals, so don’t be that person! There are paw wipes which are great to clean your dog’s paws after a muddy walk, and they also remove bacteria they may have trodden on. Antibacterial powder is always a good essential to have, as well as a tick remover & spray on plaster for any wounds your dog may get.
Are there any other products you would recommend to first-time dog owners? Let us know!