Congratulations on being a new dog owner! Becoming a pet parent is an exciting journey of love, joy, and companionship. What’s almost as much fun as welcoming a new dog into your home? Going on a shopping spree to make that welcome complete!

Let’s face it. Even though your new dog can thrive on love and attention, even dogs have a materialistic streak, and they won’t turn down a plush bed, a fun toy or an entertaining chewy.

From choosing the best food and treats to finding the right toys, grooming supplies, and other must-have products, it can feel a bit overwhelming. Our guide will make preparing your new furry friend with the best items easy.

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New Dog Owner Guide

Whether you are a first-time dog parent or need a refresher on the best dog products, we have you covered. Consider the following items for your shopping spree.

Dog Fencing

If you plan to let your dog loose in your yard, you will need a fence. The fence should be dog-proof from the start, so your dog is never encouraged by successful escapes. Make sure it also prevents marauding animals from getting in. Buried electric fences, while better than no fence, are not ideal because they don’t prevent other animals from getting inside the boundary, and your dog can also run beyond the barrier even though he’s getting a shock, and then not be able to get back inside.

playpen for new dog

Consider an indoor/outdoor playpen for your puppy. The BestPet Dog Playpen is available in a variety of sizes (40 inches, 24 inches, and 32 inches). It can be configured into a variety of shapes and used as a pet play yard, fence, or playpen. We like that it is assembled without tools.

Crate for your Dog

All dogs should be crate trained; the best start time is now. Crate training taps into a puppy’s instincts to keep her ‘den’ or crate clean. In doing so, she won’t want to pee or poop where she sleeps.

Crates come in three types: wire, which folds flat and has better ventilation; plastic, which is cozy and is approved for airline shipping; and cloth, which is lightweight but can be shredded by dogs who want to get out. Wait until your dog behaves in a hard-sided crate before trying a cloth one.

For today’s modern pet parents, there are a variety of modern dog crates available.

Baby Gates

Baby gates allow your dog freedom while still blocking off restricted areas in your house. Don’t use the old-fashioned accordion style, which can close on a puppy’s neck. Even a long, sturdy piece of cardboard can possibly do the job in a pinch.

Dog by gate

An easy-to-install option is the Cumbor baby gate for stairs or doorways. Available in a variety of sizes, it received the Mom’s Choice Award. The durable steel design and spacious walk-through gate are ideal for new dog owners. The double-lock latch prevents kids and dogs from easily opening the gate.

Exercise Pen

An exercise pen (X-pen) is a 4-foot-by-4-foot portable enclosure that functions as a doggy playpen. It’s safer than locking your puppy in a bathroom, and he’s less likely to object because it doesn’t have that closed-in feeling that a small room gives him. Set the pen in your kitchen or den, where he can be out from underfoot yet still be part of the family when you can’t watch him. They’re also great for traveling to keep your dog from bolting out of motel rooms.

Xpen for dogs

The dog exercise pen/playpen from Hohometic measures 42 x 42 x 25.6 inches and offers ample space for your new puppy to move around freely. We like the breathable Oxford fabric, strong abrasion resistance, and toughness. Best of all, it can be ordered with or without a cover and stores easily.

Dog Bed

Beds can range from a cardboard box packed with comfy towels to a miniature bedroom suite that matches your own. But leave the fancy ones until your dog is over his chewing urges. 

Dog on a donut bed

New puppies often fall in love with a donut bed. Known for their coziness, one of our top picks is the Best Friends by Sheri Original Calming Donut Dog Bed. The round shape and soft, self-warming faux fur make it ideal for cuddling up. It is machine washable and available in many colors and sizes to accommodate all dogs.

Ant-Chew Spray Deterrent

Like an off-limits sign for your furniture legs, these sprays taste bitter so your puppy will be discouraged from chewing inappropriately. Puppies are prone to chew, and here’s what you can do about it.

bitter apple spray

One of the more popular options is Grannick’s Bitter Apple Spray, which is alcohol-free and helps protect your furniture from puppy teeth.

Collar or Harness

A collar or harness is a means of controlling and identifying your dog. A buckle collar is OK for most dogs. A slip (“choke”) or, better, a martingale collar is a good choice for walking on leash because your dog can’t let it slip over his head.

However, it’s dangerous to leave them on your dog unattended, as they can get caught on things and strangle your dog. In fact, don’t leave any collar on a puppy unattended, as they have a penchant for getting their lower jaw stuck in it. Make sure any collar is loose enough for you to get a couple of fingers between it and your puppy’s neck, but not so loose that it could slide over his head when walking on leash — or that he can reach down and bite it!

Here’s how to choose the right dog harness and what to look for when making a selection.

Dog Leash

Start with a sturdy lightweight leash, 4 to 6 feet long. Don’t get a chain leash, which is hard to hold on to.

leash for dog

The Max and Neo reflective nylon dog leash is a great choice. The leash is at least one inch wide, and it is made of 2-mm thick but soft, heavy-duty nylon webbing. It comes in several colors and lengths. The reflective webbing improves your visibility on night walks as a bonus feature.

Retractable Leash

These give your dog more freedom, but too many people give them so much freedom that the dog wanders into the road or up to strange dogs or under people’s feet. Retractable leashes should be retracted unless you’re in a safe place away from other people and dogs. They’re an unpopular choice in veterinary waiting rooms.

Identification Tag

Almost any large pet supply store sells identification tags you can make on the spot. Get one. Alternatively, check out our article on the best pet ID tags to keep your dog safe.

Cleaning Supplies

Accidents will happen. Have patience and understanding. For rug accidents, use an enzymatic carpet cleaner, which destroys the odor-causing molecules rather than simply covering them up.

oxy carpet shampoo

We like the Rocco & Roxie Carpet Cleaner for use with any carpet shampooer machine. Thanks to active oxygen molecules, tough stains don’t stand a chance. We like that it is certified safe by the Carpet and Rug Institute and a little goes a long way.

Regarding the best pet odor eliminators, consider our list to find one or more that suit your needs.

Poop Scoop

Scoops with a rake on one side are better for grass, and the flat-edge pusher varieties are better for cement surfaces. Two-part scoops are easier to use than hinged versions.

Poop Bags

A variety of special doggy poop disposal bags are available, but you can also use a baby diaper disposal bag or a cheap sandwich bag.

new dog owner poop bags

Some of the top-rated poop bags that are also environmentally friendly are from Earth Rated. Available in lavender or unscented, each bag is strong and leak proof so your hands stay clean.

Bowls

Stainless steel bowls are durable and easy to clean. Some ceramic bowls can be put in the microwave. Plastic bowls hold germs, and a few dogs are allergic to them. Self-feeding or watering bowls are handy but must be cleaned as often as regular bowls.

stainless steel set of dog bowls

Here are our favorite dog bowls for every need.

Brush

A soft-bristle brush is ideal for getting your puppy used to grooming. Later, you can buy more appropriate grooming tools for his adult coat. A combination brush, such as Hartz Groomer’s Best Combo Dog Brush is a 2-in-1 combination for everyday needs.

Rinseless Shampoo

When you can’t give your dog a real bath, just squirt some rinseless shampoo on him, rub it in and wipe the dirt away with a towel. Dandylion Fresh Coat No Rinse Dog Shampoo is waterless and plant based. Choose from two misting settings and spray generously on your pup’s coat. Wipe with a dry towel and that’s it!

Dandylion waterless shampoo for new dog owners

Toothbrush

A doggy toothbrush and toothpaste is ideal, but a child’s toothbrush will do. Don’t use human toothpaste, though, which is not made to be swallowed.

Here are what veterinarians tell us are their top picks for dog toothpaste.

Toenail Clippers

Cat nail clippers work fine for tiny puppies. For adults, scissor-type or guillotine-type is a matter of choice. You can also use a grinder.

Here are some choices for nail clippers that groomers love.

Puppy Toys

Puppies love soft fuzzy toys. Make sure no parts can come off and that your puppy can’t gut it and swallow any noisemakers. Avoid bean or Styrofoam stuffing.

Here are some toys to bring your pup joy.

Throw Toys

Balls and other toys that encourage playing with people are especially good for social development.

Interactive Toys

Toys that challenge your puppy to dislodge food treats can occupy him while you’re away. Rotate several interactive toys with different challenges to help prevent him from getting bored.

Check out our selections of interactive dog toys for bonding and fun.

And that’s just to get you started! Happy shopping!

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