Top 6 Must-Have Items For Your New Dog
Congratulations on your new dog! Getting a pet is exciting, but it also comes with some responsibilities. As a new pet parent, one of the first things you’ll need to do is to get the essential supplies to keep your dog comfortable, safe, and happy in your home.
With countless options promising comfort, safety, and happiness, it’s easy to feel lost. That’s why our pet experts have created a streamlined checklist of essential supplies, cutting through the clutter so you can confidently prepare for your pet’s arrival. With this guide in hand, you’ll set up a secure, happy home and focus on what really matters — bonding with your new best friend.
Here Are Six Must-Have Supplies For Your New Dog
- Dog Food
Like humans, dogs need nutrient-rich food to support their growth and health. If your new dog is already on a specific diet, we recommend starting with that first and gradually transitioning to their new food to avoid tummy troubles.
Our top pick for the best dog food is Maev’s Human-Grade Raw Food. This natural, high-quality, protein-rich diet is packed with 11 core ingredients, including lean beef, chicken breast, fresh vegetables, whole fruits, and functional supplements, to support your dog’s overall well-being.
When we switched to this USDA-certified, nutrient-dense food, our dogs had better gut health, shinier coats, and softer fur. They also had fresher breath and more balanced energy. Moreover, we love that the food comes ready to serve — no cooking or prepping required.
- Dog Treats
Dog treats are another necessity for a successful homecoming. They are perfect for showing your dog love and affection and reinforcing positive behavior during training. Ensure the treats you choose for your dog are natural, nutritious, and free of sugar and other unhealthy chemical additives. Here are some treats that are perfect for training and all-day enjoyment.
- Maev Human-Grade Freeze Dried Treats — 100% USDA-Certified beef liver
- Milk Bone Holiday Biscuits — Bone-shaped tasty dog biscuits
- Greenies Dental Treats — Fights plaque and tartar
- Food And Water Bowls
We advise choosing ceramic or stainless steel bowls — Plastic bowls are chewable, often hold germs, and some dogs may be allergic to them. You may also want to consider getting elevated bowls to reduce neck strain. Here are some food and water bowls you may want to consider for your dog:
- Loving Pets Stainless Steel Bowl
- Our Pet Elevated Stainless Steel Bowl
- Waggo Dipper Ceramic Dog Bowl
- A Collar And Leash
Ensure you get a collar and leash that fit comfortably on your dog’s neck — not too tight or loose. Our top picks for collars and leashes are:
- Max and Neo Dog Collar
- Blazin Led Dog Collar
- Orvis personalized reflective dog collar
- Comfy Bed
Like us, our furry friend needs a bed they can call their own. Be sure to buy one that’s comfortable, easy to clean, and big enough for your dog to stretch out completely when fully grown. After testing several dog beds, we can say the best are:
- Furhaven Orthopedic Dog Bed
- Petfusion Ultimate Dog Bed
- Majestic Pet Suede Bagel Dog Bed
- Grooming Tools
Your dog will need regular grooming to prevent excessive shedding, unpleasant odors, and skin infections. You will need basic tools like:
- Brush and comb
- Nail trimmers
- Dog toothbrush and toothpaste
- Coat clippers
- Shampoo and conditioner
Final Thoughts
By investing in these key items, you’re not only creating a safe and comfortable space but also paving the way for a strong, loving bond with your furry friend. Enjoy every moment of your new adventure in pet parenthood, knowing you’ve given your new companion the very best start in life.
