New Puppy - what are the must-haves?

piggy_bank

Hey MSE'ers

I'm getting a puppy in around a month, and am trying to put together a list of everything essential. I imagine it's a lot like having a new baby where you're told to get a million new things where actually second hand will do, or some things aren't worth getting until they're older.

What is worth buying new, what must I not forget, and what wouldn't you bother with? Any other tips for balancing wanting to give pup the best we can afford, and money-saving along the way?

Thanks!

[Deleted User]

I think for me its less about stuff and more about making sure I have puppy classes in place and registered with a vet.

Personally I wouldnt want second hand items as they are more vulnerable to illness / disease when young.

Make sure you have researched and bought a good insurance plan.

hollie.weimeraner

piggy_bank wrote: »

Hey MSE'ers

I'm getting a puppy in around a month, and am trying to put together a list of everything essential. I imagine it's a lot like having a new baby where you're told to get a million new things where actually second hand will do, or some things aren't worth getting until they're older.

Thanks!

Depends on what sort of dog breed it is but they need stimulation. My wifes a dog walker and can't believe the number of people that get puppies and then go out to work all day leaving them in a cage without any stimulation or company.

Like humans they require company and affection and that's a lot more important than buying loads of toys.

A good bed where they feel safe is a good idea and if you intend to use a cage make sure you research how to introduce the dog to it. If it's in a cage for any length of time make sure it has access to water.

sheramber

Puppy collar and tag, harness, lead bed/blanket- a cardboard box may be suitable to begin with as puppy will grow quickly and may chew bed, Food and water dish, brush, register with vet, find out about training classes- visit before signing up to ensure positive, reward methods are used and all puppies/dogs  are happy. 

RichardGB

Don't waste money on expensive toys (you will, though!). Empty plastic juice/milk bottles are great fun for puppies. The most important thing you can give a new puppy is your time and love when the initial gloss has worn off. Good dog/puppy training courses get booked up in advance. Enquire now, visit and book your place if it looks a good course. We chose a vet 15 minutes away from where we live, partly because it ran regular puppy socialising courses, even though there was another vet 50 metres from our front door! Be prepared for puddles and poo while you are house training your puppy: it's just like a baby and can't control it's bodily functions to start with. Then it has to be trained with praise and rewards for doing it outside when it can. Again, this is where time and love come it. No good having a puppy and going out to work all day. If that's your situation, a puppy will be very wrong for you; please change your mind now.

RelievedSheff

Patience..

ceewash

A mop and bucket.

Ted_Head

Loads of newspapers.

Fireflyaway

Definitely agree with the comments about time and attention. Ive wanted a dog for years but only got ours in December when I got a new job working from home. It was 100% the right decisions. Dogs need companionship. 
Cleaning stuff, there will be accidents! Something to chew once they get new teeth coming through. A warm comfy sleeping area. A cage is a good idea for night or when popping out because curious pups will investigate inappropriate things and you need to ensure they are safe. Collar or harness and lead with name / contact details tag. Bowls for food and water, brush, pads for house training. Later on poo bags, shampoo and towels. 
Insurance is definitely a good idea. 
A safe way to travel in the car if you have a car. Dogs must be properly restrained. 
You can spend a lot. Places like pets at home have a whole puppy section that looks like a baby department! All cute little products but you dont need to pay high prices. If the equipment is safe thats whats important. 

ladyholly

Please if you work and there is no one at home dont get a puppy. As others have said they need someone around most of the time. Not only for companionship but how do you toilet train a puppy if you aren't there, how do you stop them getting bored and destructive if you aren't there and how do you train them and socialise them if you aren't there. There are so many young dogs in rescue because people havent thought it through. I dont know your circumstances but make sure a puppy is right for you. If you do work an older dog might be better. Most breeds have dedicated rescues if you want something specific and will be able to advise you,  otherwise your local rescue centre would be pleased to help. Even an older dog should not be left for more than 4hours. Sorry if this comes across as negative but having worked in rescue and fostered several dogs that have had to be rehomed because owners have under estimated the amount of work a new puppy needs I feel strongly about this.  If you do  get a puppy and it is the right one you will end up with the most loyal friend you could wish for. Good luck and I hope all goes well.

Elizabeth_B

RichardGB said:

Don't waste money on expensive toys (you will, though!). Empty plastic juice/milk bottles are great fun for puppies. The most important thing you can give a new puppy is your time and love when the initial gloss has worn off. Good dog/puppy training courses get booked up in advance. Enquire now, visit and book your place if it looks a good course. We chose a vet 15 minutes away from where we live, partly because it ran regular puppy socialising courses, even though there was another vet 50 metres from our front door! Be prepared for puddles and poo while you are house training your puppy: it's just like a baby and can't control it's bodily functions to start with. Then it has to be trained with praise and rewards for doing it outside when it can. Again, this is where time and love come it. No good having a puppy and going out to work all day. If that's your situation, a puppy will be very wrong for you; please change your mind now.

I would like to share my experience with NomNomNow food. All of my buddys' loved it. and Dog Harness for your dog. say NO to dog leash. Dog Leash is harmful for pup.